Issaquah Tree Canopy Assessment

The City of Issaquah is located within King County, Washington. Across the City, trees along streets, in parks, yards, and natural areas constitute a valuable urban and community forest. This resource is a critical element of the region’s green infrastructure, contributing to environmental quality, public health, water supply, local economies and aesthetics.

The primary goal of this assessment was to provide a baseline and benchmark of the City’s tree canopy, interpret the results across a range of geographic boundaries, and evaluate how the City’s canopy has changed since 2011. Land cover results of this study indicated that in 2017, the City of Issaquah contained 51% urban tree canopy (UTC); 16% non-canopy vegetation; 3% soil/dry vegetation; 30% impervious; and 1% water. 16% of the City was possible planting area (PPA) while 33% was unsuitable due to its current land use or other constraint. Issaquah gained 3% urban tree canopy since 2011.

This study assessed UTC, PPA, and canopy change metrics at multiple geographic scales in order to provide actionable information to a diverse range of audiences. The UTC, PPA, and canopy change metrics should be used as a guide to determine where the City has been successful in protecting and expanding its urban forest resource, while also targeting areas to concentrate future efforts based on needs, benefits, and available planting space. Issaquah should use these results to ensure that their urban forest policies and management practices continue to prioritize its maintenance, health, and growth.

To access the Issaquah Tree Canopy Assessment, fill out the form and download the report.