What is Urban Forestry? Sparks Urban Forestry team is responsible for all city owned trees (now numbering approximately 20,000) as well as those privately owned trees that come in conflict with roads, sidewalks or traffic control devices throughout the city. The city owns the trees located in the parks, the median strips, along soundwalls and some common areas. Staff is also responsible for maintaining trees along the river bike path. In the older section of town where the parkway strips occur (the narrow piece of property between the street and the sidewalk), trees are maintained by the Urban Forestry staff. The public is encouraged to contact us at 353-7822 or recinfo@cityofsparks.us with questions regarding any tree issues you may have. 
Tune in to SCTV Channel 15 and watch ‘Keep it Green’ featuring Sparks Urban Forester, Michael Kelley. It’s like Wayne
’s World -- only forestry! Don't miss the fun.
SCTV Channel 15 Programming Schedule
View a complete list of trees and shrubs discussed on our first show.
Send your questions on tree care, turf and irrigation to the Sparks Urban Forester at recinfo@cityofsparks.us. Questions and answers are shared monthly with Sparks Today (Reno Gazette-Journal) readers.
Sparks Hometowne Farmer's Market Promotion - Congratulations to Michelle Mitchell of Reno, winner of the 2008 grand prize sponsored by G&G Nursery, K-BULL 98 FM and Sparks Urban Forestry. The prize package consisted of $1,000 in trees and shrubs delivered and planted by G&G Nursery and a consultation with our Urban Forester. See you next year at the Farmer's Market!
Need ideas on different types of trees, shrubs and grasses that grow well in our area? We've compiled a suggested list of trees and plants for the new Golden Eagle Regional Park that will be located in Spanish Springs. It's far from complete, but it will give you an idea of what we have tried or are currently trying in this area. There will be more information coming soon! Click here to view the list. If you would like to learn more, e-mail recinfo@cityofsparks.us.
The emphasis on community: Not only are we dedicated to maintaining our trees in a safe, beautiful state, we believe in working with our citizens to help them with their tree concerns as well. Each year we see over 1,300 kids and share our message of the importance of trees in the urban environment. In April we celebrate Arbor Week by visiting elementary schools in Sparks and having the students assist with planting a tree. Barkley Shades, our forestry mascot, helps spread the tree care message. Every November, tree trimming is suspended while the staff decorates downtown Sparks, the highlight of which is the 60ft. Douglas Fir that is generously donated by Sparks' sister city, Garibaldi, Oregon.
The City of Sparks has shown its dedication to trees by
participating in the Tree City USA Program for 12 years. In order for a city to be awarded the Tree City status, they must have a city ordinance dealing specifically with trees, a Tree Board, an annual community forestry program and an annual Arbor Day observance.
participating in the Tree City USA Program for 12 years. In order for a city to be awarded the Tree City status, they must have a city ordinance dealing specifically with trees, a Tree Board, an annual community forestry program and an annual Arbor Day observance. If you have questions for the Sparks Urban Forestry Division, e-mail Michael Kelley at recinfo@cityofsparks.us or call (775) 353-7822.
Take advantage of the following links for web sites offering more information on trees and their care - and fun for kids!