Weird Portland Wednesday: For the Love of Trees

American elm at 1111 SW 10th Ave. was named Portland's first historic tree in 1973

We love our trees, oh yes we do.  We have a law that you need a permit to cut down any tree on private land that is more than 12" in diameter at breast height.  And you may need to plant new trees that, combined, equal what you cut down.  Once known as "Stumptown," Portland has become "Tree Town."

In 1990, Portland resident Phyllis Reynolds published a book dedicated to the Trees of Greater Portland.  She was worried that these beautiful trees would be cut down to make room for development.  She drove up and down streets throughout the Portland area, talking to land owners about their trees, giving life to these beauties throughout our city.

We love our trees so much, we have named almost 300 of them as Historical.  Heritage Trees are trees that have been formally recognized by City Council for their unique size, age, historical or horticultural significance.  Once named as such, the tree is given a plaque and can not be cut.  If on private land, landowners must agree to this listing.  This safety from cutting belongs to the tree, not to the owner; therefore, successors are also not allowed to harm the tree.  BTW, in the US, the first state-sponsored heritage tree program began in 1995 in Oregon with the Giant Sitka Spruce.

We love our trees so much, we don't allow anything to get in their way....  We decorate, on all occasions, this little pine located in the World's Smallest Park.  And here's my friend Cece standing next to a glorious tree that has decided not to allow civilization to take over.    It's just one more thing that helps keep Portland Weird.

peace~~~