Meet Our New Partners: Five Fun Facts about Friends of the Urban Forest
Introduction
At Arborist Now, we’ve always been passionate about nurturing thriving trees throughout the streets of San Francisco. We firmly believe that bringing tree life into our urban environment not only beautifies the city but also enhances the quality of life for its residents. By caring for our trees, we’re investing in the well-being of our community.
That's why we're thrilled to announce our new partnership with Friends of the Urban Forest (FUF), a dynamic San Francisco-based nonprofit organization dedicated to urban greening. With nearly half of San Francisco’s street trees planted by FUF, this organization is making a profound impact on our city. To celebrate our partnership, we’re excited to share five fun facts you might not know about Friends of the Urban Forest.
FUF Plants Street Trees for Free Upon Request
Trees Line an Urban Sidewalk
Did you know that you can request a street tree outside your home or business, and FUF may plant it for free? Friends of the Urban Forest’s primary mission is to increase tree coverage across San Francisco, and they need your help to identify locations in need of greenery.
In recent years, FUF has focused its efforts on underforested areas in San Francisco—neighborhoods with fewer trees where the need for green spaces is most urgent. You can view a map of these priority areas here and sign up for a tree planting if you live or work in one of these zones.
Even if your area isn’t currently highlighted, you can still request a street tree from FUF. While you may have to wait longer for your tree, your neighborhood’s existing greenery is already hard at work improving air quality and providing other environmental benefits.
Benefits of Street Trees
- Improved Air Quality: Trees absorb pollutants, enhancing the air we breathe.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Greenery adds beauty and value to neighborhoods.
- Natural Shade: Trees provide cooling shade, reducing urban heat islands.
FUF Has Planted Over 60,000 Trees in San Francisco
Since its founding in 1981, Friends of the Urban Forest has been diligently working to green San Francisco. With over sixty thousand trees planted across the city, FUF has made a significant impact on the urban landscape, improving air quality, reducing noise pollution, and enhancing the overall livability of our neighborhoods.
A FUF Volunteer Cares for a Street Tree
The Impact of 60,000 Trees
- Carbon Sequestration: Trees capture and store carbon dioxide, helping to combat climate change.
- Biodiversity: Urban trees support a wide range of wildlife, contributing to local ecosystems.
- Community Engagement: Tree planting brings communities together, fostering a sense of stewardship and pride.
FUF Provides Ongoing Care for Young Trees
Friends of the Urban Forest doesn’t just put tender young trees in the ground and walk away, leaving them to fend for themselves. Planting a tree is just the beginning. For the first three years after planting, FUF’s expert crew provides regular care and maintenance to young trees, helping them establish strong roots and thrive in their new environment.
Why Young Trees Need Extra Care
- Establishing Roots: Young trees need time to develop a robust root system.
- Protection from Pests: Early care helps prevent infestations and diseases.
- Structural Support: Proper pruning and care guide the tree’s growth for long-term stability.
FUF Offers Specialized Training for the Underserved
Friends of the Urban Forest not only provides top-notch arborist services but also makes a meaningful difference in the lives of San Francisco’s youth. Through their educational and employment programs, FUF offers invaluable opportunities to young people from underserved communities.
Green Teens and Green Crew Programs
- Green Teens: This paid urban forestry training program offers low-income youth the chance to gain professional skills and hands-on experience in tree care.
- Green Crew: Aimed at young survivors of violence, this program provides steady employment and on-the-job training, empowering participants to build a brighter future.
These programs are a win-win, providing essential tree care services to the community while offering life-changing opportunities to young people in need.
The FUF Team Celebrates a New Tree Planting
YOU can Get Involved with Friends of the Urban Forest
Friends of the Urban Forest is all about community involvement. If you’re inspired by their mission, there are numerous ways to get involved.
How to Participate:
- Request a Street Tree: If you have space, consider requesting a free tree for your neighborhood.
- Join Educational Programs: Learn more about tree care by enrolling in FUF’s educational courses.
- Corporate Workdays: Rally your coworkers for a day of volunteering to green the city.
- Volunteer: Sign up to be notified of volunteer opportunities that match your interests.
At Arborist Now, we’re incredibly proud to partner with Friends of the Urban Forest, one of San Francisco’s premier nonprofit organizations. Together, we’re committed to making our city greener, healthier, and more beautiful for everyone.
Originally posted February 3, 2021.
