The Wedgwood Elementary School Cedars join almost 30 other native trees up and down the block to form one of the largest private property groves in Seattle. Supergroves like this one are key reservoirs of biodiversity, and provide cooling and carbon sequestration at higher rates than single trees. Mass tree removals of member trees can destabilize groves and set them on a path of decline. Nearly all the cedars have trunks 3+ feet in diameter.

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Seattle’s groves are supposed to be legally protected – but Seattle’s building department, SDCI, is ignoring both science and law, and approving the destruction of this grove. SDCI even approved the construction company’s  "lot sprawl"  site plan, which intentionally spreads structures to the edge of the lot and removes all trees. It’s a waste of space, but it results in higher sales prices on the new houses, bigger profits for the developer, and more revenue for SDCI.  

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Moving the buildings slightly could save all the cedars and most other trees

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An independent architect’s analysis shows that the same number and size of homes could be built while saving nearly every tree. (some smaller trees would be removed).  

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Here’s the current site plan. We’ve marked the artificially inflated tree protection area which guarantees the removal of all trees. It’s a hallmark of Seattle’s devastating tree ordinance and was specifically requested by the developer lobby:

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In contrast, this plan by an AIA-certified architect shows how simply shifting the structures slightly north, and using a reasonable tree protection area, saves all of the cedars:

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Attempted illegal removal

On September 20, 2024 the developer submitted a public notice claiming that the trees would only be pruned. Public records revealed the true plan was to remove all the trees, even some which were entirely on neighbors’ properties. Complaints were filed and the developer was required to submit an accurate notice. The removal is scheduled for Tuesday, October 22, 2024.

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How to Help

Most people in Seattle enjoy trees, and most people think they’re protected. They couldn’t be more wrong. 

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Please help us spread awareness of what’s really happening – it’s the most powerful way to grow our community’s numbers and voice, and you can help in two specific ways:

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1. Print and distribute this pamphlet (color or b&w) to 5 people you know in Seattle, or place it in a local shop or venue you love.
2. Forward this email to like-minded friends who love our climate and trees but don’t know our urban forest is at risk, and let them know to join our newsletter here.

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Thank you Alan Berner for the photos.