October was declared Community Forestry Month by Mayor Neil Johnson at the Bonney Lake City Council meeting on Tuesday, Oct. 8.

During the proclamation, Johnson said, “Trees are a key factor in making Bonney Lake a truly vibrant place to live, work and play.”

This proclamation is connected to the declaration Gov. Jay Inslee made on Sept. 23 that October would be Urban and Community Forestry Month in Washington.

Since 2005, Bonney Lake has received Tree City USA designation and status, according to the proclamation.

Especially living in the Evergreen State, trees are important because they can reduce energy costs, increase our home values, keep our air clean and water safe to drink and improve mental health.

October is the best time of year to plant trees in Washington. And because so, Johnson said he “urges all citizens to plant a tree during the month of October.”