Why Are Shade Trees Important?

• Increase Property Values
• Improve Air Quality
• Create a Habitat for Wildlife
• Curb Noise
• Keep Temperatures Cooler
• Control Soil Erosion
• Maintain a Calming Environment
• Beautify Our Town

Among the direct economic benefits of trees are lowered energy costs to homeowners, lower air conditioning costs, lower heating costs when trees are planted as windbreaks, and value added from landscaped vs. non-landscaped homes (from 5-20% value difference). The net cooling effect of a young, healthy tree is equivalent to 10 room-size air conditioners operating 20 hours a day, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Trees serve as noise barriers. Birds are attracted to the area. Leaves filter the air we breathe by removing dust and other particulates. Rain then washes pollutants to the ground. Leaves absorb carbon dioxide from the air, as well as other pollutants, ozone, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide. They give off oxygen. Temperature near trees is cooler than away from them. Trees moderate the pavement /concrete heat effects. Wind speed and direction can be affected by trees. Trees reduce storm runoff and possibility of flooding. Dew and frost are less common under trees because less radiant energy is released from the soil in those areas at night. Trees improve air quality, conserve water, and harbor wildlife. They moderate the climate, improve air quality, and conserve water.

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