Once upon a time, there were things called trees that helped us breathe….. goes the theme of the Dr. Suess book, “The Lorax.” Our Northwest is plenty green, so it’s hard to believe that in one generation more than 40 percent of the planet’s rainforests have been cut down.

It is heartening to see Bothell citizens and members of the City Council engaged in the process of saving “North Creek Forest” as highlighted in last issue’s Reporter. THANK YOU to the council and staff for stepping up to the long-term vision that will preserve this forest for future generations.

They recognized the value of an urban forest and encouraged citizens to raise the money toward its purchase and preservation. Citizens and organizations took up the challenge. One of these is Friends of North Creek Forest, who provided hundreds of hours toward grant applications. In a year, more than $500,000 in awards were acquired, enabling the city to purchase the first 35 acres of the forest. However, there is still more to do! With 29 acres still left to purchase, the city and two citizen organizations are working to obtain more grants. We want every Bothell citizen to imagine what quality will be added to our city if this entire forest is preserved:

Can you imagine…

A 64-acre second growth forest within 1 mile of City Hall?

A place of serenity and peace for walking?

A place for school kids to learn about the environment?

A home for wildlife, including deer, owls and priority species?

Please thank the City Council. Write them or go to our Web site, friendsnorthcreekforest.org and add your name to the hundreds who have already endorsed this vision. Help us protect this last great forest, once slated for development.

Jeanie Robinson

President, Friends of North Creek Forest