The Whatcom County Farm Forestry Association is preparing for its 66th annual Tree Sale, with pre-orders for 15 tree species starting on February 1 and running until March 12. This event aims to raise funds for forestry education programs while educating the community on the ecological benefits of tree farming, such as fostering diverse wildlife habitats and aiding in carbon sequestration. Chairperson Lisa Tiemersma highlights the need to address misconceptions about forestry, stressing the positive impact of local timber harvesting. With a history of over 1. 3 million seedlings sold, the association will offer 23,300 seedlings this year, including in-demand varieties like noble firs and giant sequoias that tend to sell out quickly.

The nonprofit also provides educational programs, including field trips for fifth graders and workshops for teachers, to promote awareness of forestry practices. Additionally, the association is looking to enhance public engagement by discussing important topics like carbon sequestration in tree farms. Tiemersma and her team assert that tree farming is not only beneficial for the environment but also vital for local economies. They aim to clarify the environmental consequences of timber imports, emphasizing the broader implications for local tree farming and the industry as a whole.