Steven Traylor, City Forester, Free Fred Talk, Sat. April 11th at 12 noon
Steven Traylor serves as the City Forester for the City of Norfolk, working within the Parks & Forestry Operations division where he oversees the health, planning, and long-term stewardship of Norfolk’s urban forest. In this role, Steven manages citywide tree programs, coordinates planting initiatives, supervises arboricultural care of public trees, and helps guide policies that expand tree canopy across Norfolk’s neighborhoods. His work focuses on protecting the city’s existing tree resources while ensuring that new trees are planted thoughtfully and sustainably to benefit future generations.
Steven brings a strong professional background in urban forestry and arboriculture, combining field experience as an arborist with academic training that emphasizes the science of tree care and urban ecosystem management. Throughout his career he has worked to connect communities with trees—helping residents, gardeners, and city leaders understand the crucial role trees play in stormwater management, shade and cooling, habitat creation, and neighborhood livability. He has also been recognized within the profession as a Certified Urban and Community Forester, reflecting his expertise in managing trees within complex urban environments.
In his Fred Talk, “Trees for an Urban Garden,” Steven will discuss how trees function within small urban landscapes and how gardeners can choose and care for trees that thrive in compact spaces. He will explore topics such as selecting appropriate species for urban conditions, balancing shade and sunlight in garden design, supporting pollinators and wildlife, and ensuring trees remain healthy in challenging environments like compacted soils and limited rooting space.
Following the talk, Steven will lead a Tree Walk through Fred Heutte Garden, pointing out notable specimens and discussing how trees contribute to the garden’s beauty, ecology, and seasonal character. Participants will learn how to identify different species, understand tree structure and health, and see firsthand how thoughtful tree selection can shape an urban garden over time.
This event is free and open to the public, and offers a wonderful opportunity to learn from the person responsible for helping steward Norfolk’s urban forest. Whether you are a gardener, tree lover, or simply curious about the green canopy that defines our city, Steven’s talk and guided walk will provide practical insight and a deeper appreciation for the trees that make Norfolk greener and more resilient.
Please Register Here to save your Seat. Although all Fred Talks are free, donations, no matter how small, help us bring programming like this to Norfolk.
