Guest Opinion | Suzanne York: Protecting Pasadena’s Urban Forest

The fire that tore through Altadena and Pasadena left behind a stark reminder of the power of nature and our responsibility to act. Climate change fueled the conditions that made this disaster possible, and as we begin the long process of rebuilding, we must do so with sustainability in mind.

One of the most striking sights in the aftermath of the fire were the trees that endured. Amidst the ash and wreckage, certain sturdy trees stood tall, their roots gripping the soil, their canopies offering shade, even in their wounded state. These survivors are not just symbols of resilience – they are living proof of why trees matter more now than ever.

Pasadena is a city of remarkable beauty, and at the heart of its charm is its magnificent urban forest. With over 60,000 trees lining our streets, parks, and neighborhoods, these towering giants do so much more than provide shade and aesthetic appeal—they are an essential part of our community’s environmental health and quality of life. Yet, all too often, they are taken for granted, their care overlooked, and their value underappreciated.

The city’s Urban Forestry Division, housed within the Department of Public Works, is tasked with maintaining and improving our urban forest. However, like many cities, Pasadena faces challenges: climate stressors, limited budgets, and the “siloing” of responsibilities among city departments have created gaps in tree care. These challenges have only compounded since the 1990s, when a recession led to much of the city’s tree care being outsourced to private contractors. Without coordinated oversight, the health of our urban forest has declined, leaving it vulnerable to further degradation.

Pasadena’s trees are more than just decorations—they’re environmental powerhouses. Properly placed trees can lower local temperatures by 10 to 15 degrees, a vital function as climate change continues to fuel hotter, longer summers. The catastrophic damage done to our landscape is likely to increase those temperatures in our community. Trees also play a critical role in mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, a process known as carbon sequestration.

By reducing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, our urban forest helps combat global warming while improving air quality. Beyond the science, trees bring beauty, serenity, and a sense of identity to our neighborhoods. They connect us to nature, provide habitats for wildlife, and create spaces for community gatherings. Imagine Pasadena without its iconic tree-lined streets—it’s an image few of us would want to accept.

Trees are among our greatest defenses against climate change. Yet, despite all of the benefits that trees provide, Pasadena scheduled removal of 462 trees last year alone. Some were removed for safety, but one wonders if there had been more care and maintenance, there may not have been so many casualties.

As we rebuild, we have a choice: We can continue down the path of short-term decisions, or we can commit to a future where trees are recognized as essential infrastructure. Budgeting for tree planting and care isn’t a luxury – it’s an investment in our future. Pasadena and Altadena must not only replace lost trees but also expand our urban canopy, prioritizing native and fire-resistant species.

Our community has felt the cost of inaction. Now, let’s be the generation that chooses to protect and restore what we’ve lost. The trees that survived this fire remind us that resilience is possible – but only if we nurture it.

Our city leaders must take bold action by:

• Increasing funding for tree care and planting in public spaces, ensuring that removed trees are replaced with species suited to our changing climate.

• Expanding protections for mature trees, requiring maintenance before considering removal.

• Updating city policies to require new developments to incorporate tree planting and green infrastructure.

• Engaging the community by creating a volunteer-driven tree stewardship program to help care for young and at-risk trees.

Our urban forest cannot thrive without us. To ensure its future, we need a grassroots movement to protect, care for, and grow Pasadena’s trees. This is where you come in.

How You Can Help:

1. Raise Awareness

Educate yourself and others about the value of our urban forest. Share information about the benefits of trees and the challenges Pasadena’s trees face. Conversations with neighbors, friends, and community groups can spark the change we need.

2. Volunteer Your Time

Join or create a citizen task force dedicated to tree care. Organize tree-planting events, participate in tree maintenance days, or advocate for policies that prioritize tree health in city planning.

3. Partner with Local Organizations

Work with schools, businesses, and environmental groups to create initiatives that promote tree care. Partnerships can amplify efforts and bring fresh ideas to the table.

4. Advocate for Change

Contact city officials to express your support for increased funding and coordinated efforts for Pasadena’s urban forest. Encourage policies that prioritize tree protection, maintenance, and growth.

5. Be a Steward

Care for the trees in your own yard and neighborhood. Regular watering, pruning, and attention to pests or diseases can make a big difference.

A rally will be held on Saturday, March 1st at 10:30am on the east side of McDonald Park (1000 Mountain St) to raise awareness for these critical issues. Please join local com-munity members and tree advocates in celebration of our trees.

Pasadena’s Urban Forest Advisory Committee (UFAC) will be meeting on Wednesday, March 12th, 6pm, City Yards, 233 W. Mountain, #220.

We can be the generation that chooses to protect and restore what has been lost. The trees that survived this wind and fire remind us that resilience is possible- but only if we nurture it. We can strengthen a greener Pasadena, one tree at a time!

Suzanne York is a retired PUSD teacher who serves on Pasadena’s Environmental Advisory Commission.