Bothell Sound

Development · Sep 3, 2025

Bothell's first urban forest plan was scheduled for Planning Commission review

In materials published ahead of the Sept. 3 meeting, staff reported Bothell lost 60 acres of tree canopy within the current city boundary since 2015 and sought feedback on the city's first urban forest plan 1.

What the records say

Bothell's Planning Commission was scheduled to review initial goals and recommendations for the city's first Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP) at a study session on Sept. 3, 2025 1. The UFMP will guide how Bothell preserves and expands tree cover as the city grows 1. No action was required at the meeting; staff were seeking feedback before releasing a full draft plan in October 1.

  • Bothell's tree canopy covered 44% of city land in 2023, down 60 acres (-0.7%) within the current city boundary from 2015 1
  • Canopy loss was primarily attributed to urban development projects and land clearing for new construction 1
  • A public survey of 97 residents found 69% wanted more trees planted citywide and 46% felt tree health had declined over the past decade 1
  • Private properties hold about 75% of the available potential planting area but lost 198 acres of canopy between 2015 and 2023 1
  • The full draft UFMP was expected to be released in October 2025, with adoption anticipated by the end of the year 1

Why it matters

The plan will shape how Bothell protects and grows its tree canopy as development continues. Private properties hold about 75% of the available potential planting area and lost the most canopy (198 acres) between 2015 and 2023, so decisions about private land will be central to any recovery 1. Survey respondents backed policies such as incentives for developers and property owners and higher minimum tree requirements for development projects, which could affect future construction standards in Bothell 1.

What changed / what's next

  • Bothell's tree canopy decreased by 60 acres (-0.7%) within the current city boundary between 2015 and 2023 1
  • Private properties lost 198 acres of tree canopy between 2015 and 2023 1
  • Tree canopy in critical areas expanded by 76 acres (3.0%) between 2015 and 2023 1
  • The full draft UFMP was expected to be released in October 2025 1
  • Two public focus groups were scheduled for September 2025 to gather additional community input 1
  • The Planning Commission was scheduled to review an updated draft plan in November 2025 and provide recommendations to City Council 1
  • Adoption of the final UFMP was anticipated by the end of 2025 1
  • The available records do not establish the meeting's outcome.