North Seattle residents have the opportunity to nominate their favorite tree or tree grove to be a Heritage Tree.

The Heritage Tree program is sponsored by the City of Seattle and Plant Amnesty, a not-for-profit organization that promotes good tree care and preservation practices.

Heritage Tree selection is based on criteria such as age, size, type, historical association, and horticultural value. The tree must be in good health, and aerial space and open ground area for the root system must be certified as sufficient by a qualified arborist. Currently, there are nine Heritage Trees in Seattle.

Trees are nominated by individuals and may be on either public or private property, although those on private property should have the support of the owner. Selected tree owners will receive an owner's manual and a plaque certifying the significance of the tree. The owner can also place a deed restriction on their property to provide for future tree protection.

The next ceremony recognizing newly designated Heritage Trees will be in April as part of Arbor Month activities.

To nominate a tree, or for more information, citizens may contact either Plant Amnesty at 783-9813 or the City of Seattle Arborist Office at 684-7649.