Friends of the Urban Forest

For Pruning, Removal, and Sidewalk Repair referrals, please see our Arborist Referrals page.

General tree care advice

Moving large trees

Environmental Design - moved several large trees in the Presidio successfully during development of the Letterman Center site. 800-376-4260

Metal tree protection and grates
(be sure to consult DPW Bureau of Urban Forestry first, permit may be required, 641-2676)

Garden tools/Irrigation

Lee Valley - Good value and selection!
A.M. Leonard
Urban Farmer - For all irrigation issues and more
Ewing Irrigation - Also sells tree stakes
Tool Lending Center - Borrow tools for all sorts of jobs - free membership — useful workshops

Pest Control

Local Government Agencies

SF DPW Urban Forestry for planting and removal permits for sidewalk trees and sidewalk landscaping permits. Understaffed due to low funding, please be patient! They are good people.
SF Dept of Environment - coordinates various environmental programs put on by the city.
SF Recreation and Parks Dept - for trees in parks and in sidewalks adjacent to parks

Non-profits

Strybing Arboretum and Botanical Gardens — learn about plants from all over the world.
California Native Plant Society — learn about plants from right here
Literacy for Environmental Justice — Environmental education and empowerment for youth
Parks Trust — enhance and protect your local park
Neighborhood Parks Council - a coalition of community based groups actively improving neighborhod parks
Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy — help restore coastal habitat
Mission Creek Bikeway and Greenbelt — help create a greenbelt where Mission Creek used to flow
California Rare Fruit Growers — learn about fruit trees and grafting
Plant SF - they can help you with the process of creating a sidewalk garden

Education