Action Alert! Urge Washington County to Prioritize Tree Protections

Please urge Washington County Commissioners to prioritize implementing a tree preservation code and other natural resource work in this year’s long range planning work program! 


Washington County is one of the last places in the Portland Metro area that does not have a code to protect trees in its unincorporated urban areas. Despite years of community advocacy and a clear need,
County staff have once again left development of a tree code off its draft work plan. This is a major problem for the region’s wildlife and residents alike. As development pressure and climate change impacts increase, it is more important than ever to put in place protections to ensure that the existing tree canopy is protected. Strong tree protections are essential to preserve the region’s environmental and community health and to increase its resilience to climate change.

Cedar Hills neighborhood in unincorporated Washington County
Cedar Hills neighborhood in unincorporated Washington County

Please take action today by submitting comments to the Washington County Board of Commissioners regarding the County’s draft long range planning work program.

Email: lutplan@co.washington.or.us

Comments due by 5 p.m. on Friday May, 7th 2021.
– Washington County residents please include your full name and street address.

Talking Points

    • Urge County Commissioners to prioritize creation of a tree preservation code for its unincorporated urban areas in this year’s work plan
    • Support funding for refinement of the County’s Significant Natural Resource Program, including creation of more robust upland habitat protection measures.
    • Include why protecting trees and other natural resources is important to you personally (i.e. habitat protection, access to nature, neighborhood livability, climate resiliency, water quality, reduced urban heat island effects, increased property value, etc.)

Thank you for your advocacy.