Citizen Forester Program
About
Casey Trees developed its signature Citizen Forester Program in 2003 to educate District residents on how to properly care for trees and become urban forestry advocates for their neighborhoods.
Citizen Foresters serve as tree ambassadors to the community on behalf of Casey Trees. Citizen Foresters teach new volunteers how to properly plant and care for trees, represent Casey Trees at neighborhood meetings and events, perform tree maintenance such as watering and mulching, and spread the word about Casey Trees and the value of urban forests.
Since its inception, the program has graduated more than 1,000 Citizen Foresters.
Details
HOW DO I BECOME A CITIZEN FORESTER?
Easy. Enroll in one or all three qualifying courses - Trees 101, Tree Planting or Stand Up for Trees - all of which are usually offered before the planting season. All Casey Trees classes are free.
Course Descriptions:
- Trees 101 introduces basic tree biology, identification and strategies for restoring the District's tree canopy.
- Tree Planting teaches students how to properly plant and care for trees.
- Stand Up for Trees empowers students to advocate for trees in their communities.
WHAT IS THE TIME COMMITTMENT?
You determine how little or much time you want to commit serving as a Citizen Forester. Volunteer opportunities exist year-round.
DO I NEED TO HAVE PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE WITH TREES?
No. Citizen Foresters come from all walks of life and skill levels. We will teach you everything you need to know about trees in order for you to be an effective advocate for urban forests.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS TO BECOMING A CITIZEN FORESTER?
Too many to list. Citizen Foresters get to interact socially with other individuals who share a similar interest in and appreciation for trees, be introduced to new neighborhoods during tree planting and care events, gain hands on urban forestry experience, and experience a sense of accomplishment for making the District more green. All this on top of getting a red Casey Trees safety vest to keep!
WHAT IS A LEAD CITIZEN FORESTER? HOW DO I BECOME ONE?
Lead Citizen Foresters are Casey Trees volunteers trained to provide technical assistance to Community Tree Planting applicants throughout their planning, execution, and maintenance process. Casey Trees invites a select number of volunteers to become Lead Citizen Foresters. To be considered, Citizen Foresters must:
- Be actively volunteering with Casey Trees.
- Complete Trees 101, Tree Planting, and Stand Up for Trees.
- Exhibit leadership, enthusiasm, helpfulness, and organizational skills at tree plantings and other volunteer events.
