A new initiative titled Happy Tree Walks is being launched in San Diego’s Bankers Hill neighborhood to enhance community engagement with urban forestry. This pilot program aims to encourage residents and visitors to explore the local environment through self-guided walking tours that highlight the area’s significant trees, both young and old. The program was conceived by Brian Bagnall, the outgoing representative on the Community Forest Advisory Board, who presented the initiative at a community meeting on July 21, 2023.
Bagnall’s vision for Happy Tree Walks centers on promoting happiness and livability. He believes these walks will foster a greater appreciation for the urban environment. “One of the most important things for all people, particularly living in cities now, is to get out and walk more. It’s the best thing you can do for your health. It’s the best thing you can do for your spirit,” Bagnall stated.
The program features four distinct walking routes, each designed to showcase the diverse tree species in the area while also highlighting historic sites and local businesses. For example, one walk starts in Balboa Park West, showcasing trees planted by the renowned horticulturist Kate Sessions. Another route begins at Olive Street Park, where new trees require community support for maintenance.
Bagnall partnered with Emma Smith from Kate Sessions’ Commitment to create a dedicated website. This platform offers detailed directions and photographs to guide participants on their walks. Smith emphasizes the importance of raising awareness about the care needed for the park’s trees, noting that some have already died and been replaced. “These [trees] are part of our community too,” she remarked. “I think it’s a powerful story in this park with the AIDS Memorial, because when we have people championing a story, things get better.”
The walking tours not only focus on the trees but also encourage visitors to explore local businesses, such as Cafe Bassam, where they can relax after their walks. Each route is designed to be accessible, inviting participants to appreciate the natural beauty around them without requiring extensive knowledge about trees. “We didn’t want it to be too techie about trees. You don’t have to be a tree expert,” Bagnall explained.
This initiative comes at a time when Bankers Hill boasts the densest tree canopy in San Diego, covering 24% of the area, closely aligned with the national average of 26%. In contrast, only 13% of San Diego overall was shaded by trees in a 2014 assessment. The walks are intended to enhance community awareness and appreciation of the urban forest, particularly as the city has seen a rise in new tree plantings over the past decade.
The routes offer a variety of experiences, from the historic Quince Street Footbridge built in 1905 to the scenic overlooks at the AIDS Memorial. Each walk is designed not just to inventory the trees but to create a narrative that encourages exploration and connection with nature.
Smith and Bagnall are eager for feedback on the pilot program, seeking to improve and expand the concept based on community input. Participants can find additional resources and sign up for the walks through the dedicated website. By promoting these walks, the initiative hopes to inspire a deeper connection to urban forestry and enhance the overall livability of San Diego’s neighborhoods.
