Seward Old-growth Hemlock Survey & Youth Training

About This Grant

Western Hemlocks are dying in the northwest quadrant of the Seward Park's old-growth forest located at 5895 Lake Washington Blvd. The cause and mechanism of the decline are unknown. A survey of current tree health and geographic distribution is needed. The Friends of Seward Park will work with youth from CHOOSE 180 on a hemlock survey, collecting data and training the youth in field biology and data analysis. A protocol devised by PNW ecologists and pathologists and approved by Seattle Parks will guide our work. CHOOSE 180 is a community-centered program in partnership with the King County Prosecuting Attorney's Office to reduce race-based and economic disproportionality in the juvenile justice system. Friends of Seward Park will also collaborate with Forest Health Watch, provide data summaries, a preliminary analysis, and a short article submitted to an appropriate journal. This project will be completed by November 30, 2021.