A climate-resilient forest in an Environmentally Critical Area is up for development and the 78 trees on this lot are at risk of being removed. We are working to protect this hard-working forest near Elliott Bay and its wildlife habitat.

‍

This microforest lives on a large property in Magnolia that is being subdivided. Although planners are supposed to consider how best to save trees when new property boundaries are drawn, in practice the applications are always approved even if the new lines result in massive tree loss. This forest also contains 26 city trees in the public right-of-way which will also be removed. 

‍

Why save this forest?

It is critical that Seattle retains intact forests and groves like the Barrett Lane Forest to help mitigate the effects of climate change.  Forests are more resilient than single trees because trees growing close together protect each other from heat and share resources.  

‍

The Barrett Lane Forest counteracts urban heat, absorbs and filters stormwater runoff, reduces pollution, and supports local biodiversity.  These trees are just blocks from Puget Sound, and have a direct impact on the stormwater flowing into Pugest Sound. They stabilize the steep slope and are an important resting spot for eagles and hawks, as well as home to many other bird species and wildlife. Some of the site is also designated as an Environmentally Critical Area (ECA) due to the potential for landslides which means removing this forest would have an outsized negative effect on the neighboring community. Keeping most of this forest intact as we add housing is a no-brainer.