Santa Barbara Urban Forestry: Crews plant new tree species in parks to combat climate change

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. –The Santa Barbara Parks and Rec Department are in the middle of a
tree planting initiative in Santa Barbara.

The urban forestry program launched an initiative to increase tree planting around playgrounds throughout the city to increase shading.

The initiative is part of an effort to explore what trees will be able to adapt to the region’s changing climate.

Local arborists said they surveyed all playgrounds in town.

They found eight parks in high need of additional shade.

Directors of the forestry department hope the trees will live for generations to come.

The newly planted trees are expected to help keep people cool in the warmer months.