July 2025: TSD x UCP Urban Greening Community Open House Recap

This summer, Tree San Diego partnered with the Urban Collaborative Project (UCP) as part of the Transformative Climate Communities (TCC) initiative to bring tree education, community input, and meaningful green space interaction to the Emerald Hills neighborhood in Southeastern San Diego.

UCP Urban Greening Open House — Earth Lab 

Held at EarthLab Climate Action Park, the Urban Greening Open House invited community members to take part in a day filled with climate action, environmental education, and neighborhood collaboration. The event opened with a powerful Danza Azteca ceremony, honoring the land and setting the tone for a day of connection and cultural recognition. Tree San Diego led Tree Treks through the park and hosted a 100-shade tree distribution, while community members explored green infrastructure, contributed ideas for future green spaces, and connected with local partners. The event was made possible through collaboration with Urban Collaborative Project, Urban Corps of San Diego County, Project New Village, Mundo Gardens, and GRID Alternatives, all of whom offered activities and information aligned with the shared goal of building a greener, healthier Southeastern San Diego.

TSD x UCP Tree Treks in Emerald Hills 

Over two community-led Tree Treks, TSD arborist Kurt Peacock and CCAC fellow Sky Kezmoh led residents along walking routes that showcased both mature and newly planted trees along Kelton Road and Emerald Hills Neighborhood Park. These treks invited participants to learn about local tree species, explore future planting sites, and engage in dialogue about community needs and urban greening strategies. Between Tree Treks, the City of San Diego planted several new trees along the route, which allowed us to revisit and observe their establishment. Kurt provided guidance on young tree care, covering watering, mulching, and seasonal maintenance best practices.

During the second Tree Trek, the event saw an outstanding turnout from both community members and partners. Notably, three Ukrainian entrepreneurs visiting San Diego through the San Diego Diplomacy Council joined the walk, bringing an international perspective to the local greening efforts. Olivia Mabee from the City of San Diego’s Urban Forestry team also attended, offering valuable support and answering resident questions about tree care and city programs. These Tree Treks are helping to lay the groundwork for community-informed greening efforts within the TCC project area, inspiring residents to envision and actively shape a healthier, greener Emerald Hills.