Sunday, April 12th North Olympic Land Trust will present Paul Forrest with our annual Out Standing in the Field Award at the annual community Conservation Connections gathering held at the Field Arts and Events Hall!
This award is dedicated to changemakers and conservation-minded citizens, groups, and individuals whose efforts make a lasting impact to improve quality of life on the North Olympic Peninsula. Paul’s deep commitment to conservation is matched only by his enthusiasm for strengthening his community.
In 2018, after recognizing the declining state of the urban tree canopy in Port Angeles, Paul began building what would become a transformative street tree program. His efforts led to the launch of the City Shade Street Tree Program in 2023. Since then, the initiative has planted more than 400 trees across the city—bringing lasting benefits such as cleaner air and water, slowing of residential traffic, increased shade, improved public health, and enhanced habitat for local wildlife.
Photo of Paul Forrest on Cherry Hill in Port Angeles, posing with one of the many oaks he has planted in the neighborhood. Photo by Annabelle ByrneStrong
A recent highlight of this work was the City’s Arbor Day celebration, where residents and volunteers came together to plant 74 new street trees across eight neighborhoods. This collective effort reflects the powerful impact of community-driven conservation.
Paul’s professional background makes his contributions even more remarkable. An agronomist by training, he has built a global career in crop production, agribusiness, commercial lending, and international agricultural development, working on projects across five continents and conducting farm visits on six. He holds a BA in Economics, a BS in Crop Science, and an MS in Agronomy and Plant Genetics.
Since retiring to Port Angeles in 2013 with his wife, Gail McDonald, Paul has brought his expertise and passion home—creating a legacy that will grow for generations.
This work is a powerful reminder of how thoughtful urban planning and conservation can come together to build healthier, more resilient communities.
Please join the Land Trust on April 12th to learn more and celebrate Paul Forrest’s incredible legacy!
Event Details:
Date: Sunday, April 12th
Time: 1:00PM – 4:00PM
Location: Field Arts & Events Hall
Admission is FREE, but space is limited. If you would like to attend and congratulate Paul, reserve your spot today!
If you have any questions please reach out to annabelle@northolympiclandtrust.org, I will be happy to answer any of your questions!