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Bothell presents street‑tree inventory and canopy assessment; citywide canopy about 44% with 15% potential planting area
Summary
City staff and consultants presented an initial street‑tree inventory (about 13,230 trees) and a 2023 canopy assessment showing roughly 44% tree cover citywide (35% in the urban growth area) and estimated 15% more area suitable for new plantings; staff will use results to develop urban forestry strategies.
City of Bothell planners presented preliminary results from a street‑tree inventory and a citywide tree‑canopy assessment at a May 13 study session, showing a large existing canopy and opportunities to expand plantings in targeted locations.
Inventory and condition City staff said consultants inventoried approximately 13,230 trees in public right of way, documenting species, size, condition and potential infrastructure conflicts. The inventory found a high share of red maples (roughly one third of street trees), a predominance of mid‑sized trees (many in the 6–18 inch diameter range), and that most street trees were in good condition; only a small share were flagged for removal. Staff noted the inventory focused on street/right‑of‑way trees and can be expanded later to parks and other publicly maintained areas.
Canopy assessment and change The 2023 canopy assessment reported about 44% tree cover citywide and about 35% within the urban growth area. Consultants estimated about 15% of city land could be suitable for new plantings after excluding existing development, impervious surfaces and environmental constraints. Comparing 2015 to 2023, staff reported relatively small net changes overall but localized canopy losses near downtown and along growth corridors; census‑block and equity analyses highlighted priority planting areas.
Policy questions and next steps Council discussion focused on species diversity (the inventory exceeded recommended thresholds for single‑species dominance), planting guidelines ("right tree, right place"), maintenance funding, potential incentives or fees for tree removal tied to development, and coordinating with utilities on electric‑vehicle charging and impervious‑surface tradeoffs. Staff said they will begin public engagement over the summer and expect a draft urban forestry management plan for council review in the fall.
Quotes are from City of Bothell planners and council members during the May 13 study session.
