Tree Preservation.

THE ISSUES

50 acres of trees are lost in Atlanta daily. Tree loss affects our environment in many ways, including a decrease in the qualities of our air, water, and even
our lives.

In the past ten years, tree loss in the metro Atlanta area resulted in water runoff that had to be treated in sewage systems—at a price tag of $2 billion. According to calculations by NASA, “heat islands” occur in areas with less tree cover, creating a three-to-five degree rise in air temperature. The added heat may even create miniature weather patterns.

Gwinnett continues to be one of the fastest growing counties in the nation. Ironically, however, removing trees may eventually slow growth and development. The extra runoff puts extra strains on our sewer systems. Hotter temperatures accelerate ozone formation,
making it more difficult to meet federal Clean Air standards.

Obviously, it is in our best interest to protect our trees and educate others about the importance of
trees.

THE BOTTOM LINE…What’s a Tree Worth?

Trees aren’t just pretty…they can save you money and improve your quality of living in practical and
important ways:

Slash Bills. A house shaded by trees costs about half as much to cool in the summer as a house with a barren lot. In the winter, trees block winds and reduce the winter “chill factor,” resulting in an average $50 decrease in heating costs.

Boost property value. Trees can increase the value of your home by as much as 20 percent, and houses with wooded lots tend to sell faster.

Create air… In one day, an acre of trees produces enough oxygen for 18 people to breathe.

…and clean it too. The sugar maple tree can remove as much as 5,200 mg of lead from the environment. Trees lessen the impact of automobile-caused air pollution by absorbing potentially harmful particles.

Keep the peace. Every 100 feet of forest reduces noise by seven decibels.

Prevent Flooding. Trees absorb excess rainwater, reducing flooding and ground erosion in your yard. Improve water quality. Trees filter out sediments and pollutants from rainwater, improving the quality and safety of groundwater we use for everyday needs.

TAKE ACTION

Here’s how you can save trees:

1. Follow proper planting techniques. A tree that is properly planted will grow twice as fast and live twice as long than one that is not properly planted.
2. Don’t put extra soil on top of tree roots; instead of helping the tree, too much soil can actually suffocate the roots.
3. When planting new trees take into account how large they will grow. Avoid positioning trees too close to homes; roots that run into foundations will be killed.
4. Don’t use a weed cutter around trees. The wire can accidentally slice a tree’s trunk and cause severe damage. Lawnmowers can also be hazardous.
5. Remove parasitic vines on trees. They may be decorative, but they will rob the tree of nutrients.
6. Water trees well, especially during the warm months of May to October when their root systems can dry out. Weekly watering using a soaker hose is better than frequent, light watering using sprinklers.
7. If you suspect someone is cutting down trees without legal clearance, ask questions right away. If you are concerned
   about the legitimacy of tree cutting contact your county arborist at (770) 822-7500.
8. Read and be familiar with your local tree ordinance.
9. Avoid waiting until the last minute to save trees. Get involved in development processes early by attending meetings, voicing opinions or volunteering to help the county arborist.
   

For more information about trees and proper planting tips visit www.arborday.org.