Urban forestry survey launched as part of Arbor Day celebration

SANDPOINT — You're invited to come join the fun as the city of Sandpoint and its partners hold an Arbor Day celebration Saturday, May 7.

The event will take place from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Lakeview Park, 901 Ontario St. A tree planting ceremony will be held at 10:30 a.m. and the event will include educational booths, landscape design workshops, arboretum tours, crafts for kids, a community art project, and a free tree seedling giveaway.

The city is launching a public survey on its Urban Forestry Program to coincide with the event. Community members are invited to complete the survey using the Engage Sandpoint mobile app (download in the Google Play Store or iTunes). It is also available on the city’s Facebook page or going online to bit.ly/3MXONff.

The city has been a member of Tree City USA since 1996, City Administrator Jennifer Stapleton said. In fact, she said Chapter 15 of the adopted Sandpoint City Code is specifically dedicated to Urban Forestry with the intention of encouraging and promoting the preservation, expansion and protection and proper maintenance of the community forest within city limits.

"Enhancing the beauty of the city, stimulating the planting, growing of desirable trees, and educating the public about the community forest and balancing community needs with community forest needs are the primary goals," Stapleton said.

The city's advisory Tree Committee was established in 2008 to provide guidance on the preservation, protection, and management of the community urban forest – predominantly trees in the public right-of-way.

Urban Forest Consulting Service is leading the Urban Forestry Program review, which will include staffing, resources, and management.