Community-led tree planting at early childhood center marks beginning of urban forestry effort in Belle Haven

Nearly 40 members from the Belle Haven and Midpeninsula communities came together to plant 15 trees in the Belle Haven neighborhood of Menlo Park on Saturday, October 5. All Five preschool and Belle Haven residents partnered with Canopy to add five trees to the All Five campus and plant 10 trees in neighboring residences.

The planting is part of a larger community effort to expand the urban forest at Belle Haven Elementary, where All Five operates. Over the next two years, Canopy will partner with the Ravenswood City School District, All Five and the surrounding community with plans to plant more than 90 trees on the school campus.

“At Canopy, we believe that planting trees is about so much more than just improving the environment — it’s about strengthening the community,” said Jean-Paul Renaud, Canopy’s Executive Director. “Through our partnership with Belle Haven residents, All Five, and the Ravenswood City School District, we’re not only growing the urban forest but also fostering connections among neighbors. Each tree planted is a step towards a healthier, more vibrant future for Belle Haven, and we’re excited to continue this journey together.”

While the rest of Menlo Park has an average tree canopy coverage of 28%, the Belle Haven neighborhood only has a canopy coverage of about 10%. Having a robust urban forest is important for community health, as trees help regulate temperature, provide shade, purify air, and regulate soil and water quality.

The Belle Haven community tree planting was made possible with funding from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection Urban and Community Forestry Program as well as a generous grant from Lockheed Martin.

Photos courtesy of Canopy