Tree Summit 2021: Water And A Healthy Urban Forest Today, LA's City Forest Officer, Rachel Malarich, Councilmembers, a Public Works Commissioner, Streets LA executives and staff, and tree experts met online to examine the relationship between water and LA's urban forest. Mayor Eric Garcetti provided recorded opening remarks reaffirming that shade is an equity issue and highlighting how trees are the centerpiece of our vision for a green and just Los Angeles. "Trees breathe new life into our communities ― bringing cooler temperatures, cleaning our air, and making our neighborhoods more beautiful places to lay down roots and raise a family,” said Mayor Eric Garcetti. "When we invest in tree planting, we are doing more than adding greenery and shade to our neighborhoods — we’re building a healthier city and strengthening communities hardest hit by the climate crisis."