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What a tree does for you.


Tree Lifespan

  • A reasonable estimate of the lifetime of trees is 100-150 years. Based on information from the USDA Forest Service [1], the lifetime of trees varies by region and species, but generally ranges from 50 years to 300 years of age. An average lifetime of trees planted in forests for long-term restoration purposes might be 100-150 years. Here are a few examples by region:

-In the Southeast, conifers may live 100-150 years, while hardwoods may live 150-200 years.

-In the northeast and lake states, some conifers (e.g. white pine and red pine) may live 100-150 years, while Jack pine lives 80-100 years; mixed hardwoods (e.g. maples and oaks) might live beyond 150 years, while aspen and birch might only live 50-70 years.

-In the Pacific Northwest, conifers may live 200-300 years and longe

Water

  • In one day, one large tree can lift up to 100 gallons of water out of the ground and discharge it into the air. [2]

  • For every five percent of tree cover added to a community, stormwater runoff is reduced by approximately two percent. [3]

Carbon sequestration, air quality, and climate change

  • A tree can absorb as much as 48 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, and can sequester one ton of carbon dioxide by the time it reaches 40 years old. [4]

  • One large tree can provide a supply of oxygen for two people. [5]

EPA Urban Heat Island Effects [6]

  • Reduced energy use: Trees and vegetation that directly shade buildings decrease demand for air conditioning.

  • Improved air quality and lower greenhouse gas emissions: By reducing energy demand, trees and vegetation decrease the production of associated air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. They also remove air pollutants and store and sequester carbon dioxide.

  • Enhanced storm water management and water quality:Vegetation reduces runoff and improves water quality by absorbing and filtering rainwater.

  • Reduced pavement maintenance: Tree shade can slow deterioration of street pavement, decreasing the amount of maintenance needed.

  • Improved quality of life: Trees and vegetation provide aesthetic value, habitat for many species, and can reduce noise

Carbon sequestration, air quality, and climate change

  • A tree can absorb as much as 48 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, and can sequester one ton of carbon dioxide by the time it reaches 40 years old. [4]

  • One large tree can provide a supply of oxygen for two people. [5]

Energy

  • According to the USDA Forest Service, “Trees properly placed around buildings can reduce air conditioning needs by 30 percent and save 20-50 percent in energy used for heating.” [7]

  • The net cooling effect of a young, healthy tree is equivalent to ten room-size air conditioners operating 20 hours a day. [8]

Recreation and Wildlife

  • Healthy trees provide wildlife habitat and contribute to the social and economic well-being of landowners and community residents. [9]

Help Us Restore and Protect Forests.

LEAVE YOUR GREEN MARK ON THE WORLD!

[1] Discussions with Monty Maldonado, U.S. Forest Service, Forests Management, tree planting program, October 5, 2011
[3] Benefits of Urban Trees. Compiled by Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Inc
[5] McAliney, Mike. Arguments for Land Conservation: Documentation and Information Sources for Land Resources Protection, Trust for Public Land, Sacramento, CA, December, 1993
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