We Build Partnerships

We work in partnership with local municipalities (parks departments, public works, utilities, and other government agencies) and community groups to develop long-term plans, achievable goals, and shared visions to care for the valuable forests and natural areas in our urban environments.

We work with all of the Green City Partnerships on three core goals

• Connect people to nature and improve the quality of life in cities by restoring urban forests and natural areas
• Galvanize an informed, involved, and active community around restoration and stewardship of our shared natural areas
• Enhance the long-term sustainability of urban natural areas by removing invasive plants and maintaining functional ecosystems, and by establishing the resources to carry the program into the future

Get Involved!

Volunteer with one of the current Green City Partnerships
Encourage your community to be the next Green City
Expand your knowledge by visiting our Green Cities Toolbox
Email us or call (206) 905-6923 for more information

History

The Green Cities Program began in 2004, when the City of Seattle and Forterra joined together to commit to restore and maintain 2500 acres of Seattle’s forested parkland in 20 years. The City of Seattle and Forterra worked together to craft a 20-Year Strategic Plan, which we are in the process of implementing. Building off of the success of the Green Seattle Partnership, Forterra helped launch two more Green City Partnerships between 2004 and 2006: the Green Tacoma Partnership and the Green Kirkland Partnership. Along the way, Forterra, along with other local non-profits, community groups and city agencies, began growing a program to support the expanding network of Green City Partnerships.

Why This is Important

Urban natural areas are public assets that beautify and strengthen our neighborhoods. They provide us with clean air and water, stormwater retention and reduced flooding, habitat for wildlife, carbon sequestration, noise buffers, and natural spaces where urban residents can connect with nature and take a break from the built environment. The Green Cities Program thinks long and broad about urban environmental health and works with current best practices in resource management to implement long-term plans on the ground. By engaging the entire community, we build local capacity for stewardship and work towards a long-term vision of urban environmental health.