Arbor Month in Parks & Recreation
Lake Oswego: A Tree City USA for 36 Consecutive Years
Each year, the City of Lake Oswego Parks & Recreation Department teams up with the Planning Department to celebrate Arbor Month!
We are proud to announce that Lake Oswego has been recognized as a Tree City USA for the 36th consecutive year by the National Arbor Day Foundation. This prestigious honor reflects our community’s strong commitment to responsible tree management, preservation, and care.
In addition, we are honored to receive the Tree City USA Growth Award, recognizing our innovative projects and enhanced tree care initiatives. From proactive treatments to protect against Emerald Ash Borer infestations to hosting educational workshops, our efforts continue to strengthen and protect our urban forest.
We also invite you to check out the engaging videos created by Ranger Ben and our Parks staff, showcasing the remarkable trees in our parks and highlighting their ecological and community value.
A sincere thank you to the organizations, volunteers, and community members who helped make Arbor Month a success. From tree plantings to guided nature walks, your dedication has made a lasting impact on our shared green spaces.
As we reflect on these achievements, let’s continue working together to nurture and protect our natural surroundings. Whether by participating in a stewardship work party or simply appreciating the beauty of a tree-lined street, every effort contributes to a greener, more sustainable future.
For all the amazing activities happening this month, click here!
Join us this month as we embark on an exciting journey through the "Tree of the Week" series! Each week, we'll spotlight a remarkable local tree species that enhances the beauty, diversity, and character of our community.
Get ready to explore and appreciate the wonders of nature with us! Plus, don’t miss our engaging social media reels featuring our very own Park Ranger and staff as they take us on a guided tour of these extraordinary trees.
Week 1: April 1 – April 6
Oregon White Oak, located at East Waluga Park, 15505 Quarry Rd
Quercus garryana
Native to the Pacific Northwest, the Oregon white oak stands as an essential tree in both ecological and cultural realms. This iconic tree anchors the crucial oak meadows habitat that local indigenous peoples cultivated for first foods production.
Week 2: April 7 – April 13
Pacific Madrone, located at Luscher Farm – Farr Property, 125 S Rosemont Rd
Arbutus menziesii
Recognizable as one of the few broadleaf evergreen trees native to the Willamette Valley, the Pacific madrone creates a sense of wonder. With copper peeling bark that reveals a smooth green wood underneath, a decreasing population thrives with appropriate care.
Week 3: April 14 – April 20
Douglas-fir, located at Iron Mountain Park, 2401 Iron Mountain Blvd
Pseudotsuga menziesii
Transport yourself to tropical landscapes with the majestic Windmill Palm. With its distinctive fan-shaped fronds and graceful silhouette, this cold-hardy palm brings a touch of exotic elegance to gardens, parks, and urban landscapes alike.
Week 4: April 21 – April 27
Bigleaf Maple, located at George Rogers Park, 611 S State St
Acer macrophyllum
An outstanding specimen of this iconic tree, the “Octopus” bigleaf maple contains eleven leading trunks to create a base that is over 6 feet in diameter? Come find this amazing tree next to another amazing bigleaf maple nicknamed “Scuba Steve”.
Week 5: April 28 – May 3
Tree Identification Tags
Fagus sylvatica ‘purpurea’
Ever see a silver metal tag nailed to a tree? Come learn about tree identification tags and why they are necessary for arborists and land managers to manage tree stands. Please do not remove these tags, but feel free to call-in if you have any questions.
Join us in celebrating these remarkable trees and discovering the profound beauty and importance they bring to our planet.
Let's honor and protect our arboreal friends for generations to come!
