Forest Service quantifies value of trees in communities

New research from the U.S. Forest Service demonstrates that among their many benefits, trees increase home prices, improve air quality, reduce household energy use and the effects of climate change.

"Trees in urban areas beautify neighborhoods and provide great economic benefits," said Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. "Aside from enhancing neighborhood aesthetics they filter the air, reduce storm runoff and absorb carbon dioxide."

Reports issued by the Forest Service Northern and Pacific Northwest Research Stations focused on specific cities - Chicago, Portland and Sacramento. The studies detailed the following findings:

• Chicago's 3.6 million trees annually reduce air pollution by about 890 tons, a $6.4 million benefit per year.

• In Sacramento, trees planted on the south and west sides of houses reduced summertime electricity bills by an average of $25.16.

• In Portland the study found that street trees growing in front of or near a house added an average $8,870 to its sale price and reduced time on the market by nearly two days.

These economic benefits spilled over to neighboring properties as well. For instance, a neighborhood tree growing along the public right-of-way added an average of $12,828 to the combined value of all houses within 100 feet.

Nationally, benefits from the estimated 3.8 billion urban trees are significant. These trees are estimated to have a structural value of over $2 trillion, and store carbon valued at over $14 billion. Urban trees also annually remove air pollution valued at $4 billion and remove carbon dioxide, a dominant greenhouse gas, valued at around $460 million per year.

For more information go to Urban Forest Data website.

***********
Amazon.com is promoting their most amazing deals during Cyber Week right now. Some deals are in limited supply, and all will go quickly..... but they'll be adding new ones throughout the day. Click here for the latest!


Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com