Requesting for the City of Camas to hire an urban forester/arborist.  An urban forester specializes in the care and management of tree populations in urban settings for the purpose of improving the urban environment. Urban forestry advocates the role of trees as a critical part of the urban infrastructure.  Especially with the future development of the north shore.  An arborist, and maybe the most important role our city currently needs, is one that would enforce City ordinances and policies governing arboriculture and urban forestry programs, including tree preservation practices, street tree planting, and tree removal and replacement; reviews and approves special requests and project plans, and inspects projects as needed.

Currently our City of Camas has no urban forest commission in place to help guide the city as our beautiful land is developed.  This commission would help protect old growth and heritage trees in our city, educate and guide members of our community about native trees and how to plant and care for trees.  This council would also advise the Mayor and City council on local and regional tree related issues.  The Commission would assist the city to develop good management practices to conserve the city's trees and forests.  This commission is what our city needs, please help us get this committee formed for our city.

This commission is made up of seven volunteers.  The volunteers who are interested would fill out an application, interviewed and appointed by the city council.  When funds are available the commission would be staffed by an urban forester.  Meetings would likely be held once a month.  These are just parameters in place but the commission will evolve as it goes.

The Camas Tree Protectors have sent multiple emails and requests to the council and mayors in the past for this commission.  The prior mayors have not responded to emails and the two council members that have replied say at sometime in the future this matter could be addressed.  

This urban forest commission needs to be formed NOW.

Please help me and our community.  Help us protect our beautiful trees and canopy that we treasure here in the City of Camas.