Our City Forest

Our City Forest has a unique approach to urban forestry, in that it is a grassroots, community-driven effort. 

Community members are educated on why trees and green, drought-tolerant spaces are important and how to properly care for them. We provide free tree care advice and tools for neighborhoods after planting days, resulting in a survival rate of 93%! We cultivate environmental stewards from the community, and with an increase in funding, we could offer more classes and services to areas that need it most.

We are truly a one-stop greening shop for residents. Our volunteer-run nursery cultivates species that grow well in San Jose. We remove barriers for the public such as expediting the street tree permit process. We provide residents with training to properly plant and care for their trees. No one is ever turned away - we operate on a donation only basis, making it easy for low-income residents to take advantage of our multitude of services. 

But most importantly we increase community engagement - both for residents and volunteers - to build a stronger sense of community and pride in our urban forest. It’s this training component that has allowed us to plant 65,000 trees in 22 years, and with increased support OCF could widen our horizons to include even more blighted neighborhoods.

We empower residents to renew their own neighborhoods and be directly involved in the greening of their city.  This sense of pride and ownership is vital to the continued success of our urban forest.  

With 22 years of experience and a staff of highly trained professionals, Our City Forest is generating urban renewal across Silicon Valley.  We are committed to educating the public on the importance of a healthy urban ecosystem, and providing resources and training to the areas and residents who need it the most.  Join us in growing a greener and healthier Silicon Valley - your contribution will affect thousands of people not just today, but for many years to come!