They don’t call it the Emerald City for nothing. Surrounded by lush green spaces, including 6,000 acres of parks, Seattle has long embraced its natural wonders. So, it’s no wonder that the city is going all out for its first-ever Forest Week. 🌲

The organization behind Forest Week is the Green Seattle Partnership, which has brought together the city’s parks and recreation department, Trees for Seattle, and other local groups to launch one of the biggest urban reforestation efforts in the country.

The Partnership has planted over 190,000 seedlings since 2016, and aims to establish a 30% canopy cover over the entire city by 2037, a key element to sustainable urban environments. This week reflects a coordinated effort with Trees for Seattle to help achieve those lofty goals.

Now that you know what Forest Week is all about, it’s time to get those hands dirty. Here are a few unbe-leaf-able activities to check out over the next several days, either virtually or in-person.
Going green on the ‘Gram

There’s an Instagram Live event today at 4 p.m. that will educate viewers on varieties of plants at Freeway Park.
On Wednesday, look for an Instagram Live tree walk at 12:30 p.m. Those who want an in-person tree tour can get one on Sat., Nov. 13 at 10 a.m. starting in Seneca Plaza.

Barking up the right tree

Pup lovers can go on the “Barks n Bark Dog Tree Walk” on Friday, starting at 9:30 a.m. at Lake City’s Little Brook Park. There will be coffee and doughnuts, too. 🐶
There will also be bulb-planting parties at Freeway Park today at noon and Saturday at 11:30 a.m. Treats and tools provided. 🌱

For young arborists

On Saturday at 11 a.m, the Youth Climate Panel discusses hot topics on Zoom, including the importance of stewardship and restoration.
The week culminates in Seattle Arbor Day at John C. Little Park, with a free planting party open to all ages.