Local Branch

Single-issue groups have a challenge to find allies to help them fight their battles. So it's hardly surprising that, while bikes and trees have no obvious connection, this week sees a conscious effort to unite the two missions. In advance of a slew of tree-related events in Pittsburgh next week, this weekend's the time to spot the traveling Tour des Trees. Following in the tire tracks of Lance Armstrong's high-profile biking victory this week, this other band of cyclists — consisting of arborists and members of green industry — will take to the streets, starting in Philadelphia, and cross the whole state. Their message will spearhead the Tree Research & Education Endowment Fund (TREE Fund), and raise money for its work to create and preserve urban forests and green spaces. According to the association American Forests, the Philadelphia area lost 5 million trees in the past 15 years; in response, the organization is currently challenging the Bush administration's plans to overturn rules protecting the "roadless" areas of national forests.

While the Tour des Trees bikers leave Eakins Oval at 9 a.m. Aug. 2, the previous day will see a related event at the Philadelphia Zoo, the "Treeture Feature." Tim Womick, a longtime supporter of the Champaign, Ill.-based TREE Fund, presents "Trail of Trees" (pictured), where joined by tree-habiting creatures he'll explain how essential trees are to everyday life. For kids, and adults who plan on being around over the next few decades when conservation efforts must either turn the tide or fail, it's an important reminder about an essential element of our cities — even if we only seem to notice these leafy presences when they're gone.

Trail of Trees, Sun., Aug. 1, 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m., free with regular admission of $12.95-$15.95, Philadelphia Zoo, 26th St. and Girard Ave., 215-243-1100. Tour des Trees, Aug. 2, 9 a.m., Eakins Oval, the Parkway, www.tourdestrees.org or wwwtreefund.org.

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