Value of Trees

Trees help humans and other living things in many ways. Among them, they:

  • drawing of Cedar Waxwing birdsremove carbon dioxide (a greenhouse gas) and other pollutants from the air

  • produce oxygen

  • provide food and shelter for wildlife

  • provide wood products

  • add beauty to the landscape

  • provide a pleasant environment for recreation

  • help reduce residential energy consumption by shading homes in summer and sheltering them from wind in winter

  • help protect streams and lakes by reducing runoff

  • reduce noise pollution by absorbing sound

  • increase property values.

Research has shown that trees can provide up to $7 in benefits each year for every $1 invested in caring for them. Benefits include increased property values, pollution control, and energy savings.

Keep Trees a Healthy Part of Your World!

  • Plant trees. Make sure they are right for the site.

  • Help keep trees healthy. For example: Water trees during dry periods; avoid wounding bark with lawn mowers and weed whips; stake small-diameter, newly planted trees to give them added support; mulch trees to help retain moisture in the soil.

  • Celebrate Arbor Day and Arbor Month. In Minnesota, Arbor Day is the last Friday in April, and May is Arbor Month.

  • Join—or establish—a local tree committee or board.

  • Go to DNR's tree planting and care, website for information on trees and tree care

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