Benefits of the Urban Forest

Trees enhance our quality of life in fundamental ways. They are good for the environment, good for business, good for health, and ultimately good for people. Urban forests provide important services and reduce urban infrastructure costs. The benefits of a healthy urban forest far outweigh the costs of tree planting and maintenance. Trees are essential to sustaining a strong local economy and minimizing the negative impacts of suburban sprawl.

Benefits of a well-managed urban forest

• Water–Controls runoff and flooding, reducing stormwater facility costs and water pollution
• Air–Removes air pollution that causes human health concerns and global climate change
• Energy–Moderates temperatures and reduces energy consumption for heating and cooling
• Economic–Enhances community economic viability and increases property values
• Social–Improves quality of life by reducing stress levels, enhancing social cohesion, reducing crime and decreasing demand for social services