Volunteers plant trees in Pacific Beach to honor Kate Sessions

FOX 5 San Diego reported that in Pacific Beach, more than 50 volunteers gathered to plant various tree species in recognition of Kate Sessions Day. Sessions was a notable horticulturist credited with introducing many tree species to San Diego, including the jacaranda.

The event aimed to expand San Diego's urban forest as part of the city's goal to plant 100,000 new trees by 2035. Nearly 8,000 trees have been planted in the last two years, according to city forester Brian Widener.

Volunteers, some planting trees for the first time, expressed a desire to contribute to their community and address environmental concerns such as heat waves and fires. The tree planting also supports the city's Climate Action Plan and was made possible by the Tree Canopy Fund.

Mayor Todd Gloria highlighted Sessions' lasting impact on San Diego, referring to her as the mother of Balboa Park and noting her role in transforming the city's landscape through trees.

The event resulted in 14 new trees planted, representing about six different species, contributing to the diversity of San Diego's urban forest, FOX 5 San Diego reported.