215 trees planted along Sacramento Northern Parkway in community-led climate effort

The City of Sacramento joined forces last weekend with state leaders, community organizations, and more than 400 volunteers to make a lasting impact during a day of climate action along the Sacramento Northern Parkway.

The event kicked off Sacramento's Equitable Urban Forest project, a multi-year effort to increase tree planting in disinvested neighborhoods, funded in part by an Urban and Community Forestry grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service in partnership with GreenLatinos.

"Our parks and parkways are the cornerstones of our community, and this collaborative effort has showcased the power of working together to enhance these spaces," said Youth, Parks, & Community Enrichment Director Jackie Beecham. "With the dedication of our staff and volunteers, we've not only increased our city's tree canopy but also strengthened community pride and environmental stewardship. These trees will improve air quality, cool our neighborhoods, and contribute to a healthier, more resilient Sacramento."

The event was hosted by California Volunteers, Office of the Governor, in partnership with the City. It also honored conservationist Dr. Jane Goodall's 90th birthday by contributing to the California Climate Action Corps' commitment to planting 90,000 trees and native plants across the state.

Mayor Darrell Steinberg and multiple City departments were joined by California Chief Service Officer Josh Fryday, State Senator Angelique Ashby, and volunteers, including California Climate Action Corps fellows and community partners, in the day's efforts.

Supported by weeks of preparation from YPCE's Park Maintenance team, 215 trees were planted along the Parkway, transforming the area into a greener, more vibrant space.

"We're thrilled to partner with California Volunteers to plant trees along the Northern Sacramento Parkway as we launch Sacramento's Equitable Urban Forest Project," said Mayor Steinberg. "Expanding our tree canopy is essential ensuring our city is resilient to climate change."

Community Climate Action Days offer volunteers the opportunity to take climate action while enhancing quality of life and access to green spaces in their communities. Participants also had opportunities to learn about local climate initiatives, followed by lunch and resource fair.

Governor Gavin Newsom launched California Climate Action Corps in 2020 as the nation's first state-level climate service corps with the mission of empowering Californians to take meaningful climate action.