Bothell adopts Urban Forest Management Plan with canopy and planting goals
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Summary
The council unanimously adopted the Urban Forest Management Plan, highlighting a 44% citywide tree canopy, a small net loss of 0.7% (about 60 acres) since 2015, and a goal to increase canopy by 2% over 20 years (roughly 300 trees per year). The plan includes code updates, species guidance and partnerships.
Cameron Colvin, the project manager for the Urban Forest Management Plan, presented the plan's key findings and recommended actions: a citywide tree canopy of 44%, a net loss of about 0.7% (roughly 60 acres) since 2015, a street-tree inventory of more than 15,000 trees, and a recommendation to pursue code updates and partnership strategies to protect mature trees and increase species diversity.
Colvin told the council the plan emphasizes coordination across departments (trees roles are split across three departments), additional guidance for private-tree maintenance and species selection, and potential incentives for private landowners and partners to encourage plantings. The plan also proposes code updates to critical-area tree protections and an implementation matrix assigning roles and partners, including conservation districts and homeowner associations.
Council member McCurdy moved to adopt the Urban Forest Management Plan; councilmember Anguilari seconded and the council voted unanimously to adopt. Staff said the plan supports other city priorities — including the climate action plan and stormwater updates — and flagged the plan as a priority for upcoming code work this year. The city also noted recognition as Tree City USA and a growth award in 2026.