“Join the Urban Forestry Commission — Applications are due February 28, 2018 Did you know?  Having access to green space in a public housing complex supported more outdoor play, adult-to-child interactions, and creative play – all important aspects of child development.

“Seattle’s urban forest needs you! Our Urban Forestry Commission was established in 2009 to advise the Mayor and City Council on the establishment of policy and regulations governing the protection, management, and conservation of trees and vegetation in Seattle.

“We are recruiting 5 new members for this commission, filling the positions of Arborist, Landscape Architect, Environmental Justice Representative, Public Health Representative, and Community / Neighborhood Representative.

“More information can be found on the Urban Forestry Commission website. Applications are due February 28, 2018. ”

Join the Urban Forestry Commission — Applications are due February 28, 2018

“Kids Need Trees–If you have kids or ever were a kid, this may feel familiar: A large and growing body of evidence is pointing to the importance of trees and green space around schools. Classrooms that contain views of trees or greenery improve children’s cognitive functioning at all grade levels.

“One study found that views from cafeteria and classroom windows with greater quantities of trees and shrubs were associated with higher standardized test scores, graduation rates, percent of students planning to attend a four-year-college, and fewer occurrences of criminal behavior.

“Places that incorporate or are located near nature can help remedy mental fatigue and restore one’s ability to focus on tasks. Surveys of parents whose children were diagnosed with ADHD indicated that the children functioned better than usual after activities in green settings, and that the greener a child’s play area, the less severe his or her ADHD symptoms.

“And these benefits are not limited to children. More companies are realizing the potential for improved work performance when employees have regular access to nature. Amazon has cited these benefits as a driving force behind their building of the recently opened spheres in downtown Seattle. Visit our website to learn about other amazing benefits trees have to offer!

Did you know?  Having access to green space in a public housing complex supported more outdoor play, adult-to-child interactions, and creative play – all important aspects of child development.

“Thank you to the 14 wonderful volunteers who helped us preserve the health of valuable mature trees in a Hillman City landscape on the MLK Day of Service. Seattle is a stronger community because of dedicated volunteers like you!”                  By City of Seattle Monthly Tree Newsletter and Upcoming Events from Trees for Neighborhoods. Email Treesforseattle@Seattle.gov

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