It’s easy being green. Especially when, no matter, where you are in Surrey, you’re never far from an expansive network of green spaces, urban forests, gardens and parks.
Did you know that forests are home to about 80% of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity, with more than 60,000 tree species? In 2012, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed March 21 the International Day of Forests to celebrate and raise awareness of the importance of all kinds of forests.
Surrey’s expansive network of urban forests, and green spaces, span a whopping 6,000 acres, which makes it easy to get outdoors and celebrate the International Day of Forests.
Visit Surrey’s Heritage Trees
Surrey’s story is closely tied to trees. Our trees serve as a connection to the past, present and the future, protecting them is a priority. The City of Surrey has designated more than 200 trees with heritage status. From a 200 year old Sitka Spruce in Tynehead Regional Park and a 250-year-old Douglas Fir located in a small park near 152 Street and 58 Ave to 100-year-old Giant Sequoia in Redwood Park there are many special old-timers to visit. Take a look at the list of Surrey’s heritage trees here.
Check out Surrey’s BIG Trees
Although most of Surrey’s forests are second growth, you can still find some impressive giants if you know where to look! Green Timbers Urban Forest Park, Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest Park, Port Kells Park and Godwin Farm Biodiversity Preserve Park all are home to green giants.
Visit a Tree Museum
Surrey is home to many areas where you can wander through forests and green spaces and discover species from around the world. Formally known as arboretums, we like to think of these areas as living tree museums. Collections of trees including both native and exotic, the arboretums change with the seasons. Green Timbers Park and Redwood Park are both home to an exciting collection of tree species, including the majestic redwood, Colorado Blue Spruce, Norway Maple and Sequoias.
Go Forest-Bathing
Spending time surrounded by trees is actually proven to help lower blood pressure and heart rates. The phenomenon is called forest bathing, and it’s a Japanese practice of simply being among trees. Additional benefits of forest bathing include the reduction of stress hormone production, an immune system boost, as well as an overall improvement of well-being. For short forest bathing stints head into the woods in Crescent Park, Hi Knoll Park or Fleetwood Park.
Volunteer as a Forest Observer
Join the Sunnyside Acres Heritage Society and become a part of a volunteer group of dedicated local citizens who are the stewards of Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest in South Surrey. They are committed to sustaining the forest and its flora and fauna in as natural a state as possible, and members can get involved in many ways including as a forest observer, which entails simply walking through the park and reporting back on the things that you see along the way!
Play at the TD Explore Zone
The TD Explore Zone at the Museum of Surrey is an interactive children’s exhibit centred on Surrey’s ecosystems. The focus is on sustainability so kids can learn how to be responsible citizens. Divided into six Surrey environments, including forests, kids learn through fun, interactive “learn-by-doing” exhibits.