Take Action

Neighborhood Alliances

Bring together neighbors in the vicinity of the project or tree issue including nearby homes, blocks, religious and social organizations, and civic associations.

Develop clear statements of the goals and/or problems. Consider the use of paper and/or online petitions to document the extent of concern to developers and the County.

Track opportunities to comment on large public and private developments in Arlington by following the Engage Arlington website. Significant projects may offer multiple opportunities for your input.

Livability 22202 example This is a more extensive project than dealing with a single develper, but it demonstrates how groups of citizens can have greater influence than individuals.

Livability 22202 is the work of the 3 civic associations of 22202 – Arlington Ridge, Aurora Highlands, and Crystal City. The residents of 22202 have committed to tackling the challenges facing our area with holistic strategies based on shared livability themes to create a better, more livable city.

Their Action Plan includes: “Strategically increase the amount of natural open space and improve the tree canopy, with a focus on reducing heat island intensity, improving stormwater management, and increasing urban biodiversity.

Speak Out-Local Public Comment Options

County Board Meetings - Two minutes for each speaker at the beginning of each meeting. Get more information and sign-up here.

Forestry and Natural Resources Commission (FNRC)- Citizens appointed to provide advice to Board on these subjects. Two minutes for each speaker at the beginning of each meeting. Get more information and sign-up here.

Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC) - Citizens appointed to provide advice to Board on parks including natural resources. Two minutes for each speaker at the beginning of each meeting. Get more information and sign-up here.

Climate Change, Energy and Environment Commission (C2E2) - Citizens appointed by the Board to advise and assist in meeting Arlington’s commitment to climate action on energy planning & technology, climate threats, environmental justice, environmental health, and the sustainability of the natural environment. Two minutes for each speaker at the beginning of each meeting. Get more information and sign-up here.

Natural Resources Joint Advisory Group (NRJAG)- Oversees master planning for forest and natural resources with representatives from the FNRC, PRC, and C2E2. Two minutes for each speaker at the beginning of each meeting. Get more information and sign-up here.

Speak Out-State and Regional Public Comment Options

State of Virginia

Public Comments on Proposed Legislation - committees regulating trees

Public Comments on Proposed Regulations - Forestry and other departments

Speak at public hearings held by Chesapeake Bay, state government offices, environmental and industry groups

Other Agencies and Organizations

Chesapeake Bay Foundation

Regional Government Entities