The Value of Trees

Photo: Google Images

Trees are a valuable part of urban areas.  Most people know that trees help reduce pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide from the air and producing oxygen.  This useful function is just one of many benefits that trees offer to densely populated areas.  Trees provide habitat for wildlife, soak up rain, filter noise and add to the aesthetic beauty of a city.  Recently the National Wildlife Federation completed a study that found that there are still about 60 to 200 million spaces along city streets where trees could be planted.  This translates into the potential to absorb 33 million more tons of CO2 every year and a reduction of $4 billion in energy costs.

As a homeowner including trees in your landscaping can add practical and financial value.  The following are statistics on just how important trees can be to the value of your property.

“Landscaping, especially with trees, can increase property values as much as 20 percent.” – Management InformationServices/ICMA

“Trees properly placed around buildings can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 percent and can save 20-50 percent in energy used for heating.” – USDA Forest Service

“A mature tree can often have an appraised value between $1000 and $10,000.” – Council of Tree and Landscape Appraisers

To learn more about trees please visit The Arbor Day Foundation.