Celebrate Arbor Day by volunteering at Lewis Creek Park

Published October 7 2026

Celebrate Arbor Day in Bellevue by planting trees at Lewis Creek Park on Saturday, Oct. 17, 9-11 a.m. Adding trees improves the park's forest and helps the city meet its goal of 40% tree canopy coverage by 2050. Community members can register to participate.

"Arbor Day is a great opportunity for neighbors to come together and make a tangible difference in the health of our local ecosystems," said park ranger Curtis Kukal, the event organizer. "Even a couple hours of volunteer time can have lasting impact."

The event, celebrated here in the fall when the rain supports planting, brings the community together to restore habitat, support Bellevue's thriving park system and honor the city's annual recognition as a Tree City USA, a nationwide designation celebrating strong commitments to urban forestry.

To restore forest health, volunteers will plant native trees such as Sitka spruce, western red cedar and Douglas fir. In addition, they will remove invasive species around Lewis Creek Park, 5808 Lakemont Blvd. SE.

One of the goals of the city's Sustainable Bellevue Plan is to preserve and grow Bellevue's tree canopy. Bellevue's trees provide health, environmental and economic benefits while contributing to Bellevue's character. They oxygenate the air, provide food and habitat for small animals and microorganisms, reduce stormwater runoff and cool the city.

For more information about Bellevue's environmental stewardship programs or related volunteer opportunities, visit Environmental Stewardship.