A heartfelt thank-you to every Surfside resident who took the time to vote in this independent community poll. Your participation shows how deeply our community cares about transparency, health, safety, and the future of our tree canopy and waterways. This … Continue reading Surfside Independent voting
Real estate developers are increasingly discovering that one of the most powerful drivers of return on investment isn’t granite countertops or smart-home features — it’s trees. From boosting home values to lowering operating costs and shaping desirable communities, strategic landscaping … Continue reading How Developers Use Trees to Boost Neighborhood Appeal—and Profits
Recent national studies have placed Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington at the very top of the list of thirty five cities comparing America’s cleanest cities — a recognition that reflects decades of environmental commitment, strong public policy, and forward-thinking urban … Continue reading Portland and Seattle Named America’s Cleanest Cities — A Triumph of Urban Forestry and Civic Stewardship
In Pacific County, the policies that enforce tree height restrictions through topping are not protecting our homes from fire—they are making the danger worse. Topping trees, a practice where the upper portion of a tree is cut back to enforce … Continue reading Topping Trees: Creating Fire Hazards in Pacific County
In Surfside, WA, the true strength of the community lives in its mothers and grandmothers. These women—caregivers, teachers, nurses, leaders—are the soul of our neighborhoods. Since living in Surfside, I have learned valuable lessons from their lifetime of wisdom. They … Continue reading A Tribute to the Mothers and Grandmothers of Surfside, WA — Stories of love and compassion
Microplastics, small plastic particles measuring less than five millimeters in size, have emerged as one of the most urgent environmental threats of the 21st century. These minuscule pollutants, often resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic waste or originating from … Continue reading The Canary in the Mine: Microplastics in the Air and Lungs of Birds, a Wake-up Call for All
There is no greater act of love for our children and future generations than planting a tree today. Trees are more than majestic giants of the natural world—they are lifelines, guardians, and givers. They provide the air we breathe, filter the pollutants we create, and protect us from the elements. In planting a tree, we plant hope, resilience, and a legacy of life for generations yet to come. “We must protect the forests for our children, grandchildren, and children yet to be born. We must protect the forests for those who can’t speak for themselves, such as the birds, animals, … Continue reading A Legacy Rooted in Love: Planting Trees for Future Generations
Building homes on slopes offerscomes with challenges—especially when those slopes are composed of sand. In coastal communities in Washington, where sandy hills and dunes are common, erosion and slope instability are significant concerns for homeowners. Trees, however, provide a natural solution to stabilizing sandy slopes, offering both practical and ecological benefits. Challenges of Building on Sandy Slopes Sandy slopes are inherently less stable than other soil types due to their granular structure. Unlike clay or loam, sand particles have minimal cohesion, making them prone to erosion and sliding, especially when exposed to water or added weight from structures. Houses built … Continue reading Houses on Sandy Slopes: How Trees Help Stabilize Slopes on coastal homes
Trees are more than just a picturesque addition to yards—they are essential for creating an environment that benefits the animals sharing these spaces, especially our beloved dogs. Whether it’s shade from the summer sun, a natural habitat for wildlife, or … Continue reading Trees a dogs best friend
Since the 1960s, government policies on environmental protection have transformed, with tree canopy initiatives at the forefront of efforts to combat climate change, improve urban livability, and enhance public health. Beyond their aesthetic and ecological value, tree canopies have become … Continue reading How Tree Canopy Initiatives and Government Policies Have Evolved Since the 1960s to protect our environment.
Surfside Washington News 