Georgetown Community Forest
Combatting industrial pollution and supporting public health in Seattle.
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Trees
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Square Feet
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Native Species
The Georgetown Community Forest at South Seattle College is a transformational project in South Seattle, converting the site of a former gas station into a flourishing native forest for the diverse communities living and working in the area. The Georgetown neighborhood of Seattle is an industrialized and highly polluted area of the city with some of the worst air quality in the region; the historic Duwamish River that flows through the area has been identified as one of the most polluted waterways in the USA.
Forest Maker
Ethan Bryson
“We are very thrilled to bring more trees to our community. Canopy is urgently needed to expand for Georgetown and South Park - where the majority of people of color live - to filter a large amount of air pollution from different sources, as well as reduce extreme heat temperatures."
Paulina López, LLM, Executive Director, Duwamish River Community Coalition
Why Georgetown Community Forest?
This environment has created significant public health challenges, culminating in shorter lifespans for residents than in surrounding areas. Life expectancy is 8 years shorter than the City of Seattle and King County averages, and a full 13 years shorter compared to more affluent, predominantly white neighborhoods in Seattle. Furthermore, local children are 3x more likely to develop asthma than in other parts of the city.
Georgetown Community Forest aims to heal the land and the people living on it. Over time, soil health will improve and biodiversity will thrive. The forest improves air quality in a high-traffic area, enabling local people to breathe better, whilst offering a calm space where they can immerse themselves in Nature.
“We live in an urban desert surrounded by industries and pollution. This is what we call environmental racism. The Healing Forest will bring us hope, and an opportunity to filter a tide of polluted air that comes from everywhere, noise buffering, and a good engagement and ownership with the community.”
Paulina López, LLM, Executive Director, Duwamish River Community Coalition
