Community Forester Program

You can help ensure the health and vitality of Denver's trees!

A partnership between The Park People and Denver Parks & Recreation, the Community Forester Program empowers individuals to lead tree planting and care activities within the community.

Once trained, Community Foresters can lead and participate in tree planting and care projects in their neighborhoods as well as activities for The Park People, Denver's Forestry Division, and the Mile High Million tree planting initiative.  These new volunteers will help ensure that Denver's prized urban environment does not decline despite the economic challenges faced by many cities.

YOU can become a Community Forester!  Join us on June 26 for the first workshop in the summer session, Trees 101.  Attendance in Trees 101 is required prior to participation in other workshops.  Registration deadline: June 24.  Space is limited.  Full schedule and workshop descriptions below.

To become a Community Forester, participants must complete the four mandatory workshops.  After attending all mandatory workshops, Community Foresters may attend the optional Volunteer Leadership and Management workshop free of charge.  Individuals who do not attend the full workshop series receive the title “Tree Steward” and are able to volunteer in support roles.

To register, call our office at 303-722-6262.

Summer Session Schedule

Trees 101  prerequisite  -  $15
Sat, June 26, 9am-1pm
Trees 101 provides important fundamentals from which other workshops will draw.  Thus, this workshop is a pre-requisite for all other modules.  We will cover the basics of tree biology and the environmental factors that impact tree growth as well as discuss the benefits of trees and common misconceptions.
Community Forester Program Introduction
During the last portion of Trees 101, you'll learn what it means to be a Community Forester or a Tree Steward. Find out what the training entails and about the various types of activities that require uniquely-skilled volunteers and team leaders.
 
Tree Pruning  -  $15
Sat, July 24, 9am-12pm
By the end of Tree Pruning, you'll know why, what, when, and how to properly prune a young tree to foster strong structure and long-term health.  We will also address pruning safety and specialized pruning techniques for specific outcomes.  Field component included.

Tree Planting & Health  -  $20
Sat, Aug 28, 9am-1pm
In this class, you'll learn to properly plant balled and burlapped, bare root, and container trees in a safe manner using the concepts of Right tree, Right place, Right Way.  You'll also become familiar with common tree health issues, disease and pest management, and tree health resources.  Field component included.
 
Tree Identification & Inventory  -  $15
Sat, Sept 25, 9am-12pm
This workshop will provide a brief historic context of Denver's forest, familiarize you with tree classification and identification methods, and introduce common trees in Denver as well as these trees' characteristics, requirements, and functionality.  Instructors will also introduce basic tree inventory concepts and tree measurement techniques.  Field component included. 
 
Volunteer Leadership & Management optional -  $15
tentatively Sat, Oct 9, 9am-12pm
Take your volunteerism to the next level... Build your leadership and management skills... Individuals who attend this workshop are able to lead and manage community members and other volunteers in activities in which they have been trained during organized Park People and City events.  You'll also be empowered to more effectively facilitate urban forestry activities in your own community.  After attending all mandatory sessions, Community Foresters may attend this workshop free of charge.