Portland Tree Canopy Project

My name is Ellen Salovaara, and I’m interning with the Portland Parks Conservancy this summer. I’m a Bowdoin student who loves everything about the outdoors — especially the way public green spaces bring people together and foster community.

This summer, I’m excited to connect with the people of Portland, learn why public parks matter to this community, and contribute to protecting and growing Portland’s park system.

I’m leading the Portland Tree Canopy Project, a public education campaign to inform Portland residents about the importance of urban trees and share strategies for protecting and expanding our city’s tree canopy. This project highlights the deep connection Portland residents feel to their natural surroundings, and it features the stories of people working to safeguard our trees.

One of those people is Cam Scharff, Maine Conservation Corps Community Tree Steward. This summer and fall, Cam is cataloguing all of Portland’s street trees — collecting data that will help maintain and expand the city’s urban canopy. I’m spotlighting his work through weekly videos that tell his story and highlight other projects with similar goals.

Another key part of the Portland Tree Canopy Project is an interactive map, where you can explore personal stories of Portland residents and their favorite trees. By clicking on different locations, you’ll discover why someone loves a particular tree or wooded area — capturing the “why” behind the projects featured in the weekly videos.

The parks and trees of Portland are here for the people of Portland, and I’m thrilled to showcase the love and dedication this community has for its green spaces.

Thank you for your interest in my project! Follow along on Instagram, Facebook, and here on our website to watch new videos and see all the ways the Portland Tree Canopy Project is growing.