2023 Docent Led Bike Tours

OUR COMMUNITY FOREST: LANDMARK TREES BIKE TOUR
Trees, they symbolize Woodland: the “City of Trees.” This has been Woodland’s motto since at least 1930. But the ommunity’s identification with its trees stretches back to 1861 when the town’s godmother, Gertrude Freeman gave Woodland its name. Some of the monarch valley oaks from that era still remain, although they are gradually disappearing due to old age, disease, development, and removal. Once the scene of thousands of valley oaks, today Woodland contains less than 900 of these native oaks of appreciable size, mixed among a wide variety of trees planted in abundance by Woodland citizens throughout its history.

Some of these prominent tree species, including valley oaks, cork oak, American elm, paradox walnut and Canary Island palms, have been designated city landmarks. Discover these fascinating trees and others by strapping on your helmet and following Rolf Frankenbach on a leisurely ride around the core area as he discusses current efforts to preserve and expand the community forest to combat global warming. Learn where Woodland’s largest and oldest trees are found, how the age of large oaks are determined, where world-renowned horticulturalist Luther Burbank’s walnut tree is planted, and efforts to reintroduce oaks to Woodland. Look for acorns to collect, germinate and plant to contribute to the growth of Woodland’s community forest as we work together to cool our planet.

10 AM Tour will begin at City Park, corner of Oak/Walnut streets

Docent: Rolf Frankenbach, Woodland Tree Foundation