The city of Kirkland invited residents to plant a tree and help the environment at its annual Arbor Day celebration and forest restoration event, held this year at North Rose Hill Woodlands Park on Oct. 20.

Arbor Day event volunteers were invited to support the stewardship efforts of the Green Kirkland Partnership by planting native trees, shrubs and ground covers and removing aggressive invasive plants. With 113 volunteers, the city planted more than 700 native plants, including more than 100 trees.

EarthCorps, a partner organization, helped lead the event’s forest restoration activities. Tools, gloves and training were provided, and the Kirkland PCC Community Market and Little Caesar’s Pizza sponsored lunch for the volunteers.

Kirkland Mayor Amy Walen, Ben Thompson from the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, Green Kirkland Partnership program supervisor Jodie Galvan and Kirkland urban forester Deb Powers were set to conduct a ceremonial Arbor Day tree planting at noon.

Celebrating Arbor Day is an opportunity to recognize trees for their contribution to the local community: trees filter rainwater and store carbon; they feed and shelter birds and other wildlife; they shade and cool homes and neighborhoods, saving energy; and they form a living green canopy, contributing to the health, well-being and quality of life of residents.

For more information, contact Powers at dpowers@kirklandwa.gov or 425-587-3261.

Kirkland’s Arbor Day celebration and forest rehabilitation event drew more than 100 volunteers. Photo via Facebook