Help shape Sacramento’s future urban forest at this free pruning workshop

The Department of Utilities is inviting people to a free workshop on Nov. 16 to learn how to prune young shade trees.

Staff are partnering with the Sacramento Tree Foundation to host the event, which is scheduled to take place from 9:45-11:45 a.m. at Tahoe Elementary School (3110 60th St.).

"The goal is to empower people to feel confident in taking care of their trees," said Pamela Sanchez, community education manager and certified arborist with the Sacramento Tree Foundation. "By making a few simple cuts when the tree is young, they can save themselves time and money as the tree gets older."

Organizers say the workshop will focus only on shade trees and include an outdoor, hands-on demonstration that will give attendees the opportunity to practice pruning techniques.

According to Sanchez, about 80% of trees in Sacramento are in residential yards.

"Pruning your trees is critical in maintaining the overall health of the City's urban forest," Sanchez said. "Without pruning or proper management, tree branches are more likely to break or become susceptible to disease."

Space is limited for the event and people must register online to attend. Pruning tools will be provided.