“Spring flew swiftly by, and summer came … The great trees, which had looked shrunken and bare in the earlier months, had now burst into strong life and health; and stretching forth their green arms over the thirsty ground, converted open and naked spots into choice nooks, where was a deep and pleasant shade from which to look upon the wide prospect, steeped in sunshine, which lay stretched out beyond.”
~ Charles Dickens, ‘Oliver Twist’

The first day of summer is next Thursday, June 21. Clocking in at 3:09 a.m., the timing seems incongruent. One might expect the sunniest and warmest season would begin at noon under clear blue skies. Not so; we’ll be in bed asleep. Summer 2018 gets underway in the cool dark hours of night.

As summer monopolizes the weather forecast, the cool nights and mild days become a fond memory. With summer upon us, especially after 2017-18’s lack of adequate rainfall, the reality of drought returns. Call it “global warming” if you wish. But the fact is, we live in the Southwest.

According to Crescenta Valley Water District, the Water Conservation Status remains at standard. I expect this will change in the upcoming days. Good news! Our newer drought-tolerant yard is now well-established. But what about the “old-timers” in the Crescenta Valley – the over-100-year-old trees?

Local realtor Robbyn Battles and many arborists agree trees should receive priority watering. Their value goes way beyond enhancing property value.

“Trees help maintain the water table, provide shade and are great for the environment,” said Robbyn.

An arborist once told me the deodar cedar in our front yard is worth $80,000. Wow!

Native and drought-tolerant trees send out deep water-seeking roots. Those tap into the local groundwater, providing a drink for the tree and the surrounding vegetation. Tree cover helps alleviate evaporation from rivers, lakes and soil. Save the trees! Place a soaker hose at the tree’s drip line and give it a long cool drink.

Tomorrow brings a breezy onshore flow into the weekend with cooler and below normal temperatures are predicted. With perfect timing, summer begins warmly!

Sue Kilpatrick is a Crescenta Valley resident and Official Skywarn Spotter for the National Weather Service. Reach her at suelkilpatrick@gmail.com.