Kenmore Council Approves Urban Forestry Management Plan to Enhance Canopy by 2045

The Kenmore City Council convened on July 28, 2025, to discuss significant developments, including the approval of a contract and the presentation of the completed Urban Forestry Management Plan (UFMP). The council voted 6 to 1 in favor of the contract, marking a decisive step in the city’s ongoing initiatives.

The highlight of the meeting was the presentation by Environmental Services Director Richard Sawyer and Climate Action Plan Program Manager Nina Rasmussen, who provided an overview of the newly finalized UFMP. This strategic document serves as a comprehensive guide for enhancing the city’s tree canopy and preserving existing trees. It outlines various actions, funding requirements, and timelines to achieve these goals.

The UFMP was developed through extensive community engagement, including surveys and workshops, to gather resident feedback on urban forestry priorities. Key components of the plan include a goal of achieving 50% canopy coverage by 2045, regular progress check-ins every five years, and recommendations for wildlife habitats and carbon offset initiatives.

The plan also emphasizes the importance of integrating urban forestry efforts with other city initiatives to ensure cohesive environmental strategies. As the city moves into the implementation phase, immediate next steps include identifying planting areas for community events and developing a street tree management plan to clarify roles and responsibilities.

The UFMP is now available on the city’s website, and the council is set to begin planning for longer-term projects aimed at achieving the outlined goals. This initiative reflects Kenmore's commitment to enhancing its natural environment and addressing climate change through strategic urban forestry management.