www.NormandyParkWA.gov
29
A 
tree does not need to be perfectly healthy to be 
valuable. In fact, declining trees can provide some of the 
richest wildlife habitat in our urban forests.
Standing dead trees, commonly called snags, provide nesting 
cavities, shelter, food, and perches for birds, mammals, and other 
wildlife. More than 100 species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and 
amphibians use snags in Washington. Living trees with dead tops, 
hollow trunks, cavities, and large dead branches can provide many 
of these same benefits. 
When safety is a concern, complete removal is sometimes the 
only option. However, a trained arborist may be able to identify 
when a tree needs to be fully removed or when it can benefit the 
environment as a living snag. An arborist may be able to reduce 
a declining tree, remove hazardous portions, and retain a shorter 
living snag. As the tree continues to decline and decay, it can 
provide habitat for years before eventually becoming valuable, 
downed wood. Dead snags are valuable too, and sometimes they 
are the only practical option, but retaining even a few live branches 
can extend the period during which the tree remains alive and 
continues providing the benefits of both living and dead wood.
Every part of a tree, living or dead, contributes to a site’s 
ecological value. Our default should be to retain as much of the 
tree as practical and safe.
The Benefits of a Living Snag
O
ur Normandy Park 
Community Foresters 
have been doing 
incredible work to care for and 
restore our parks and natural 
spaces. Through volunteer work 
parties, they have helped remove 
invasive vegetation, care for native 
plants, improve habitat, and keep 
our parks healthy and welcoming 
for everyone to enjoy. Their 
dedication and countless hours of 
hands-on stewardship make a real 
difference in our community.
Now, there are more 
opportunities to get involved!
Join the Community Foresters 
for an upcoming restoration 
work party at Marine View Park. 
Whether you’re an experienced 
gardener, a nature enthusiast, 
or simply interested in getting 
outside and giving back, everyone 
is welcome. Tools will be provided, 
and volunteers can earn two hours 
of community service.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR:
•	 Friday, Oct. 2, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
•	 Friday, Nov. 6, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
•	 Friday, Dec. 4, 11 a.m.–1 p.m.
•	Location: Marine View Park, 
20935 Marine View Drive SW, 
Normandy Park, WA 98166
Come get your hands dirty, 
meet other community-minded 
neighbors, and help care for the 
natural spaces that make  
Normandy Park special.
To sign up or learn more,  
contact Parks and Recreation 
Manager Aimee Lloyd at  
alloyd@normandyparkwa.gov  
or 206-248-8258.
Community 
Foresters:  
Making a 
Difference in  
Our Parks

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