I was glad to see that Burien is celebrating Arbor Day (Burien Celebrates Arbor Day, Wed. April 9, 2008) but a little deflated to read that only one little native dogwood tree is being planted for the celebration.

I'm thrilled that Burien is taking steps to "protect, enhance and maintain trees on public property" and has an ordinance "governing street trees and trees on public property as a valuable resource."

The article goes on to say that the City has this ordinance "in order to protect the investment and benefit of public trees." So what is the Burien city ordinance for private property and trees?

Over the last four years and as recently as last week, neighbors along 21st and Marine View Dr. SW have cut down some big old evergreens. Growth and development is happening all around us and it doesn't need to come at the expense of the significant trees!

We need to consider the impact to our actions. Trees are so important for the health and well being of this community of plants, animals, insects, birds and people.

If Burien wants to receive recognition as a "Tree City USA" for 2008 we'd better come up with a solution.

Melinda Mackey-O'Brien

Burien