Fall 2020 Neighborhood Tree Steward Course FULL

The framework of the course has changed quite a bit to maintain physical distancing and allow those who wish to stay home do so without missing out on any of the experiences. We anticipate using this format again for the Spring 2021 class. 

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What is a Neighborhood Tree Steward?

Neighborhood Tree Stewards (NTS) gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to be stewards of Portland’s urban forest. Stewards put their new skills to use by planting trees, organizing, advocating, and greening their neighborhoods. Stewards commit to volunteering 40 hours in their neighborhood after graduation.

No previous experience is needed to become a Neighborhood Tree Steward, but you do need a passion for trees, a desire to learn, and the commitment to help. If you do have some experience with trees, this course will deepen your base of knowledge and provide opportunities for leadership in your community.

Why care for our community’s trees?

Portland is home to diverse communities of trees and people alike. Both types of communities change as you travel across the city and require different care to support and thrive. There is an observable difference in the distribution of tree canopy coverage, and Neighborhood Tree Stewards are working to change that. The services that healthy trees provide to our city are integral to the health of the people in our city, and Portland is working with the community to bring these services to all residents. Learning to listen to trees and listen to neighbors are equally important in this effort, and the NTS course is designed to provide the tools to accomplish this. 

Who teaches this program?

Portland Parks & Recreation Urban Forestry organizes the training and classes are taught by our staff. Our mission is to manage and ensure Portland's trees for current and future generations.

What do Neighborhood Tree Stewards do?

Tree Stewards become amazing resources for their communities - they organize, advocate, and link their communities with city resources. Once the course is completed, NTS graduates are asked to contribute 40 hours of tree-related volunteer service over the next year. It is very easy to fulfill this service requirement by participating in Urban Forestry workshops, serving on the Heritage Tree Committee, teaching kids about trees at Learning Landscapes events, volunteering with Friends of Trees or any one of our local community partners, tabling at Arbor Day, organizing a community tree planting, or representing your Neighborhood Tree Team at Neighborhood Association Meetings. 

For questions or further information, please contact Urban Forestry: UFvolunteers@portlandoregon.gov                    

To learn more about upcoming educational opportunities with Urban Forestry, please sign up for TreeBark, Urban Forestry's monthly newsletter.