Introducing the Climate Ready Trees List!

On Saturday, April 5th, the City of Davis and local nonprofit Tree Davis hosted the annual Arbor Day Celebration. Volunteers planted 19 trees

at Robert Arneson Park in the Wildhorse neighborhood as a part of the effort to get the community Climate Ready. In addition to the planting, organizers and Climate Ready Tree Specialists developed a new resource—a Climate Ready Trees list—to share with Davis residents. The list contains over 100 species of trees which are adaptable to Davis’ current and projected climate. Areas where these trees might flourish best include gardens, parks, commercial lots, and greenbelts (especially when planted in turf). It is recommended that these trees are not situated near roadways or sites that flood, with more than 6 feet from pavement or structures, and with low intensity, unrestricted soil volume. Anyone can benefit from this list, from homeowners looking to see more foliage to a new development looking to provide shade. Executive Director of Tree Davis, Yael Franco, had the following to say about the list’s launch:

“The release of the Climate Ready Tree List marks a pivotal step in shaping a more resilient and sustainable future for our urban forest in Davis and the surrounding area. By selecting species adapted to our evolving climate, we’re investing in a healthier future for our community.”

Benefits of Climate Ready Trees

Climate Ready trees are beneficial to communities because they are specifically selected or bred to withstand the changing conditions brought on by climate change, such as higher temperatures, increased drought, and more intense storms. These resilient trees help maintain urban canopy cover, reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, and manage stormwater runoff, all while continuing to provide shade, aesthetic beauty, and habitat for wildlife. By thriving in challenging environments, climate-ready trees also reduce maintenance costs and the need for frequent replanting, making them a smart, sustainable investment in the health and resilience of our community. In a vibrant and city like Davis, these trees ensure future generations can continue to enjoy shaded streets, clean air, and a flourishing natural landscape.