The City of Irvine reaffirmed its commitment to a greener future today as it planted coast live oak trees at the Great Park, with more to come as development continues.
These heritage trees are large, mature trees that will provide ample shade, creating spaces to gather and enjoy picnics as soon as they are planted. The trees will become an iconic part of the Great Park, contributing significantly to its character and beauty. They will also help to counteract high temperatures and provide cleaner air through carbon dioxide absorption, aiding the City in achieving emissions reduction goals outlined in its Climate Action and Adaptation Plan.
Two 30-foot-tall trees were planted today, with City Councilmembers and staff gathered for a tree planting ceremony near Great Park Live along Corsair. Three additional oak trees will be added this week.
“‘The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second-best time is now.’ Here in Irvine, we are embracing the wisdom from that well-known Chinese proverb as we work toward a greener, more sustainable future,” said Mayor Larry Agran. “With the trees planted at the Great Park this week and those to come, we will reduce our City's carbon footprint and create a healthier, more livable community.”
Additional heritage trees are being planted at the Great Park over the next several years, including native California sycamores, ficus, pine, oak and California pepper trees. The heritage trees will be complemented by additional trees planted throughout the Great Park. It is estimated that 17,000 trees will be added to the park as the next 300 acres are built out as part of the Great Park Framework Plan.
“With every tree we plant, we are not only enhancing the natural beauty of the Great Park but also reinforcing the unique character that makes Irvine an exceptional place to live,” said Mike Carroll, Chair of the Great Park Board and Irvine City Councilmember for District 4.
Overall, Irvine is home to approximately 550,000 trees. Most of these are privately owned, but approximately 75,000 are maintained by City staff at City facilities, parks, and open space areas. Together, they make up Irvine’s urban forest.
The community is invited to help shape the Urban Forest Master Plan by providing input via a brief survey.
To learn more about Irvine's commitment to sustainable operations and management across the 1,300-acre Great Park, visit greatparkframework.org. For information on efforts to become a climate-smart City, visit cityofirvine.org/caap.