Most insects are native and beneficial, but some types of insects become problems if trees become stressed. Christine Buhl, Phd, a Forest Entomologist with the Oregon Department of Forestry, educatied us about Emerald ash borers and Mediterranean oak borers, two invasive insect affecting our Washington County trees. Christine comments: “The healthier you can make your trees, the better they are going to be able to resist and tolerate invasive insects.”

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The winter storms of 2024 rattled us all. More than ever, people wonder about the safety of their trees or trees in the neighborhood. The fate of one tree does not determine the fate of a neighboring tree however, as many factors are involved. Before you rush to cut down remaining trees, listen as Will Board Certified Master Arborist and qualified Tree Risk Assessor Will Koomjian of Emergent Tree Work sspeaks to us about what he looks for to assess a tree and how to carefully plan for actions that prevent or correct hazards whenever possible.

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There is a need for increased tree canopy throughout the county. This discussion focuses on how publicly owned school grounds are a perfect place to start. Research has shown the physical and mental health benefits trees provide our communities and offers an educational opportunity for students to learn about the life cycle and care of trees. Learn about the recent developments in this new field of research.

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This webinar explores some of the major urban forestry issues facing Washington County, with a focus on recommended best practices for urban forest planning, assessment and management, disaster prevention, response, and recovery. This included planning for trees in new developments as part of the infrastructure, because retrofitting room for trees afterwards is costly and often results in

death or poor tree health.

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To make room for new housing developments where housing units are badly needed, forests are under constant threat of clearcutting. With proper planning, these areas can be developed in a way that preserves important tree cover and helps to create more desirable, healthy and less stressful neighborhoods, especially in underserved communities where there is

traditionally little tree canopy.

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