Arlington Forestry

Arlington Forestry Arlington Forestry is the Facebook presence of Arlington's urban forestry department, for posts on t Arlington has a long history of having incredible trees.

With 1200 acres of County parkland, public buildings, Public Schools, regional parkland and the contribution of great growing spaces from the federal property (Parkway, Arlington National Cemetery) we have plenty of opportunity for having great trees. Most of our trees exist on private property, and working with our citizens to maintain the beauty and sustainability of our community is crucial to

our program. Arlington Forestry is the Facebook presence of Arlington's urban forestry department. Pictures of interesting trees and tree-related stuff, as well as new programs and documents are posted here. Feel free to ask questions and enjoy the galleries of pictures of champion trees and tree curiosities around the County. The forestry department works on maintaining tree canopy around the county by replanting in public right of way through parks, through the Tree Canopy Fund, managed by Arlingtonians for a Clean Environment, and through outreach and education to Arlington's residents. We work closely with the following groups in helping maintain a healthy forest:

Tree Stewards, a dedicated group providing education for private citizens on tree care and planting in Northern Virginia. http://treestewards.org/

The Arlington master naturalists, who work with us on horticulture and ecological education:

http://www.armn.org/

Our invasive plants program, which helps keep our region maintain its unique and native plant composition:

http://environment.arlingtonva.us/trees/invasive-plants/invasive-plant-program/

And a very active commission, the Forestry and Natural Resources Commission, which recommends actions to the County Board:

https://commissions.arlingtonva.us/forestry-natural-resources-commission/

Currently, we are working on updating our Urban Forest Master Plan, through a planning process called the Forestry and Natural Resources Plan. Learn more here:

https://projects.arlingtonva.us/fnrp/

We also work closely with Arlington County Schools to help maintain and plant trees on Schools property. Please remember to follow our social media policy for posting:

https://newsroom.arlingtonva.us/social-media-general-terms-use/

Why are many of our oaks dying? It's likely due to a syndrome called Oak Decline. There's an upcoming discussion on it. ...
10/16/2022
Oak Decline

Why are many of our oaks dying? It's likely due to a syndrome called Oak Decline. There's an upcoming discussion on it. Sign up here:

https://virginiatech.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYtf-uvrTkpEtdcdcvK7KpR1GyOC06WcRzM

You can also learn about it on our own page: https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Programs/Sustainability-and-Environment/Trees/Tree-Care-and-Removal/Oak-Decline

In recent years oaks in the white oak group, such as chestnut oak (Quercus montana) and white oak (Quercus alba), have started dying in significant numbers. This page lays out potential causes, what local governments are working on, and tips for tree owners.

Today is the last day to provide input on your Forestry and Natural Resources Plan!Share your Input on Draft Forestry an...
10/03/2022
Share Your Thoughts about the Forestry and Natural Resources Plan

Today is the last day to provide input on your Forestry and Natural Resources Plan!

Share your Input on Draft Forestry and Natural Resources Plan!
Arlington County would like your input on the draft Forestry and Natural Resources Plan. To assure future generations of Arlingtonians enjoy the benefits of nature, the County must identify what needs are urgent, what are aspirational, and how each can be addressed through both long-term initiatives, incremental change and immediate action.
Share your feedback here:

Numerous opportunities are planned to gather input from the community over the coming months. You can read the first draft of the plan now and share your thoughts now.

Help us protect our urban forest and the benefits it provides to people and wildlife. Join us for a virtual open house o...
09/20/2022

Help us protect our urban forest and the benefits it provides to people and wildlife. Join us for a virtual open house on Thurs., Sept. 29, 7 p.m. to learn more about the draft Forestry and Natural Resources Plan.

You can share your thoughts now through Oct. 3 online. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3NjL3o0

07/10/2022
Report a Spotted Lanternfly in Virginia

Report a Spotted Lanternfly in Virginia

The most powerful, simple and trusted way to gather experience data. Start your journey to experience management and try a free account today.

This might look bad, but our native Eastern tent caterpillar and cherry species (usually black cherry, Prunus serotina) ...
04/26/2022

This might look bad, but our native Eastern tent caterpillar and cherry species (usually black cherry, Prunus serotina) have co-evolved. The caterpillar will eat many of the leaves, but the tree is used to this attack, and grows a second set of leaves (if the tree is otherwise healthy). This impact is temporary, and rarely a negative impact to the tree. If you want to learn more about how different insects and pests impact trees, sign up for the University of Maryland Integrated Pest Management Alerts: https://extension.umd.edu/programs/agriculture-food-systems/program-areas/ornamental-horticulture/ipmnet/ipm-alerts-landscape-nursery

We received some hybrid American Chestnuts, which are touted to be resistant to Chestnut blight Disease. We repotted the...
04/23/2022

We received some hybrid American Chestnuts, which are touted to be resistant to Chestnut blight Disease. We repotted them in our native plant nursery, and will be planting them at a future planting!

I call this one, the Laughing Paw Paw:
04/21/2022

I call this one, the Laughing Paw Paw:

If you're thinking of mulching your trees this season, follow the 3-3-3 rule. Create a ring of mulch around your tree, 3...
04/16/2022
Mulch Tips & Tricks

If you're thinking of mulching your trees this season, follow the 3-3-3 rule. Create a ring of mulch around your tree, 3 inches deep in a 3-foot radius from the trunk, making sure to leave a 3-inch space right around the tree trunk. Learn more here:

So mulch to learn!

Serviceberries are in bloom! Learn about the interesting history of this group of trees and shrubs and their names here:...
04/15/2022
Serviceberries - Juneberries

Serviceberries are in bloom! Learn about the interesting history of this group of trees and shrubs and their names here:

Ripe Juneberries ready for picking! Shrubs in the genus Amelanchier go by a variety of names, each with their own stories and l...

Come join the Forestry and Natural Resources Commission, who meet monthly to discuss tree and other natural resources is...
04/08/2022
Forestry and Natural Resources Commission (FNRC)

Come join the Forestry and Natural Resources Commission, who meet monthly to discuss tree and other natural resources issues and policy. Find upcoming dates here:

The Forestry and Natural Resources Commission provides the County Board with advice and recommendations to improve the health and sustainability of Arlington’s urban forest.

Did you know you can request a tree planting on public property? Our tree planting coordinator will investigate the site...
04/05/2022

Did you know you can request a tree planting on public property? Our tree planting coordinator will investigate the site, and if the site is suitable, plan it for a future tree planting. You can do this with our Report a Problem tool:

https://www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Topics/Report-Problem

Knowing about trees is obviously the most important, but we have some amazing shrubs in our region, too. check out this ...
04/01/2022

Knowing about trees is obviously the most important, but we have some amazing shrubs in our region, too. check out this spicebush shrub in bloom!

We all know the shade of trees help cool us down, but where is it most needed? This study tries to answer that question:...
03/31/2022
Arlington's hottest areas lack tree canopy to soak up the sun, study finds

We all know the shade of trees help cool us down, but where is it most needed? This study tries to answer that question:

The most scorching parts of Arlington are along the Rosslyn-Ballston corridor and Reagan National Airport, according to a new study. On a hot day last July, volunteers and Marymount University research students and staff recorded temperatures at morning, afternoon and evening throughout the count

Checking on tree protection is one of our roles. This tree in Crystal City has the proper 6 ft chain link fence protecti...
03/30/2022

Checking on tree protection is one of our roles. This tree in Crystal City has the proper 6 ft chain link fence protection common to large central business district projects.

The Dogwoods are coming! Can anyone identify the tree in the background?
03/28/2022

The Dogwoods are coming! Can anyone identify the tree in the background?

Lion's mane is a tree decay organism that creates a very white, spongy wood. This wood is very flexible, but lacks the l...
03/26/2022

Lion's mane is a tree decay organism that creates a very white, spongy wood. This wood is very flexible, but lacks the lignin to support the structure of the tree. This tree is trying to compartmentalize this fungus over time, to keep it from destabilizing this branch.

I don't know who planted this, but it's mad
03/21/2022

I don't know who planted this, but it's mad

We are celebrating Arbor Day on April 22 this year. During the pandemic, our Tree City USA designation turned 25, and we...
03/17/2022

We are celebrating Arbor Day on April 22 this year. During the pandemic, our Tree City USA designation turned 25, and we received another Growth Award, which shows the continued improvement and expansion of our programs. We are very excited to continue to improve the practices and value of our urban forest going forward!

Arbor Day Foundation

You can find the Tree Stewards of Arlington and Alexandria presentations recorded on Tree Stewards now! Find them here:
02/15/2022
TreeSteward Training - YouTube

You can find the Tree Stewards of Arlington and Alexandria presentations recorded on Tree Stewards now! Find them here:

Share your videos with friends, family, and the world

A reminder that grape vines are native, and part of our ecosystem. They grow up with the trees, and are not harmful.
02/03/2022

A reminder that grape vines are native, and part of our ecosystem. They grow up with the trees, and are not harmful.

Fairfax County Park Authority staff has become aware of native grape vines randomly being cut in the woods. Tempting though it may be to remove them or any other plants from parks and woodland areas, it is illegal and may be harmful to the environment. Find out more about native and invasive plants here: https://bit.ly/3rZ8yKt

01/31/2022

Know an outstanding volunteer dedicated to improving or maintaining parklands, natural resources and habitats and outdoor public spaces here in Arlington? Nominate them for the 2021 Bill Thomas Park Volunteer Award!

Learn more and submit nominations here: https://bit.ly/3nI1elO

Crape myrtles are starting to see infections of Crape Myrtle Bark Scale. While this is not usually fatal for the trees, ...
09/21/2021

Crape myrtles are starting to see infections of Crape Myrtle Bark Scale. While this is not usually fatal for the trees, it can be a nuisance. This pest is likely present in most of Arlington. You can learn about how to manage this pest here:

https://stopcmbs.com/crapemyrtle-bark-scale/management/

For those wondering how well the trees from our Tree Canopy Fund survive, the Tree Stewards did an amazing survey of tre...
09/17/2021
Arlington’s Tree Canopy Fund Survey

For those wondering how well the trees from our Tree Canopy Fund survive, the Tree Stewards did an amazing survey of trees from that program a couple of years ago, showing over 80% still standing, and almost all of them in good condition. Learn more here:

https://treestewards.org/2018/01/09/arlingtons-tree-canopy-fund-survey/

In 2008, the Arlington County Board created the Tree Canopy Fund (TCF) to ensure funds contributed by developers who cannot meet tree planting requirements on their sites will be used to plant tree…

Request for Proposals!EcoAction Arlington is looking to start giving grants for maintenance of private trees, to potenti...
09/09/2021
Tree Canopy Fund Maintenance Project | EcoAction Arlington

Request for Proposals!

EcoAction Arlington is looking to start giving grants for maintenance of private trees, to potentially increase their lifespan, particularly for folks that may not have the means to continue maintaining these trees. As part of this, a contracting arborist will give recommendations for treatment of a tree, which will be acted upon by a private tree care company.

In connection to the Arlington County Tree Canopy Fund, EcoAction Arlington is announcing a competitive request for proposals (RFP) process to secure the services of an ISA-certified arborist. With authorization from the Arlington County Board, the Arlington County Tree Canopy Fund program will be expanding to provide services to property owners who need assistance in caring for their mature trees. We will be conducting a pilot service during the fiscal year 2022 for a minimum of 10 property owners and a maximum of 20 property owners.

Please see the RFP in the link below which contains background information and the requirements for submitting a proposal. The deadline for submission of proposals is 5:00 pm on Monday, September 27, 2021. Please email proposals to [email protected].

Note that EcoAction Arlington is issuing two RFPs, one for an arborist and one for a tree service company. The arborist and tree service company are to be independent of each other with no financial connection, and a tree service business may only apply to one RFP. More information on this project is available on our website.

https://www.ecoactionarlington.org/community-programs/trees/maintenance-project/

In connection to the Arlington County Tree Canopy Fund, EcoAction Arlington is announcing a competitive request for proposals (RFP) process to secure the services of an ISA-certified arborist and a tree care company. With authorization from the Arlington County Board, the Arlington County Tree Canop...

Soil volume is critical for tree health and growth. It is very easily illustrated by this picture, with the left tree si...
08/24/2021

Soil volume is critical for tree health and growth. It is very easily illustrated by this picture, with the left tree significantly healthier, and larger than its neighbor, which is living in a more restricted space.

We are working with the Forestry and Natural Resources Plan to understand how we can mitigate urban heat island, especia...
08/17/2021

We are working with the Forestry and Natural Resources Plan to understand how we can mitigate urban heat island, especially in areas with low tree canopy. This has always been our goal, and we are now focusing on not only low tree canopy areas, but also areas with equity disparities. You can find those neighborhoods on American Forest's new Tree Equity map: https://treeequityscore.org/

We are working hard on the first draft of the Forestry and Natural Resources Plan which will be released this Fall. Wint...
08/11/2021

We are working hard on the first draft of the Forestry and Natural Resources Plan which will be released this Fall. Winter Outreach is critical to our draft. This is a graph showing the breakdown of focus areas people were interested in from our first engagement.

Urban forests are critical to our health! Protecting our tree canopy and planting new trees help keep us, our family, an...
08/05/2021

Urban forests are critical to our health! Protecting our tree canopy and planting new trees help keep us, our family, and our friends healthy.

With all the development going on in National Landing, we still make sure to focus on protecting the trees that remain. ...
08/03/2021

With all the development going on in National Landing, we still make sure to focus on protecting the trees that remain. You may see tree protection like this near new developments. Never hesitate to reach out to us at [email protected] if you see issues with the fencing.

See something that looks like it may be damaging our trees? Report it on the Early Detection maps at https://www.eddmaps...
07/27/2021

See something that looks like it may be damaging our trees? Report it on the Early Detection maps at https://www.eddmaps.org/! This crape myrtle bark scale was reported in Arlington County, and forestry staff is now looking at potential impact if it spreads. Photo by Patrick Frain

We just received our 25 year Tree City USA stickers! So excited we had to take a picture of the stickers before putting ...
07/22/2021

We just received our 25 year Tree City USA stickers! So excited we had to take a picture of the stickers before putting them up. We also received our 16-year Growth award stickers, so our progress can get its learner's permit now!

This is a project near Courthouse that not only protected many trees on top of a low parking garage but also planted new...
07/17/2021

This is a project near Courthouse that not only protected many trees on top of a low parking garage but also planted new ones, as well. Rooftop gardens of this quality are rare, but a sight to behold!

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Arlington, VA
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This large white oak at Arlington's Lubber Run is 100% dead. Last Fall, oak trees in our region began to decline and die, apparently quite suddenly. Several factors are likely contributing, but recent extreme storms combined with the extended drought were key. Read more about oak decline and steps we can take to protect the health of our trees: https://environment.arlingtonva.us/oak-decline/ and https://mgnv.org/2020/01/08/climate-change-weather-extremes-and-oak-decline/
Photo from Arlington Urban Forestry. Thanks to Arlington Forestry for the share!
"The Lorax speaks for the trees." For Arbor Day - April 24 - here is Wes Tank rapping Dr. Seuss over Dr. Dre beats. Thanks to Arlington Forestry for the share!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tgMsmyenj6k&fbclid=IwAR3Nx0vaOKZIMBzaVDdylRjE9zt1eDmLLHi4WfOkITqfmGQzoRLBOo_kLck
Do you have a recommendation for planting distance of red maples? (I know - overplanted, but we are replenishing a streetscape of red mapl.) My impetus is to try to plant as close as possible without jeopardizing the tree, but a resident has said that red maple should be 25 feet apart. I can't find a lot of precise guidance. Casey says 20 feet from large and 10 feet from small.
Time to water!

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