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The Benefits of Trees

Many residents of Lincolnshire were drawn to the Village because of its beautiful mature trees. In fact, a Village-wide survey, conducted in 1997, showed that trees were the number one reason that people choose to live in Lincolnshire. Though it may be a common consensus that trees are a valuable part of this community, most of us are too busy with our everyday lives to give much thought as to why trees are so important.

The following list of "Tree Benefits" should provide some insight as to just how important trees really are:

• Trees reduce pollution. And it is a good thing they do, because humans sure know how to pollute. Tree leaves capture a wide range of toxins and smog producing compounds such as ozone, nitrogen oxides, ammonia, and carbon monoxide. Well located trees will also reduce noise and light pollution.

• Trees manage water well. Tree leaves intercept rain water, which reduces erosion, takes pressure off of our storm sewers, and prevents flooding. Slowing down rain water also ensures that more water will be absorbed by the soil, thus replenishing ground water supplies.

• Trees provide food and shelter for all forms of life. In the grand scheme of things, one would be hard pressed to find a land-based creature that doesn't rely, either directly or indirectly, on trees for food or shelter. Think about all the tree products you rely on everyday.

• Trees help keep us cool when it’s hot, and warm when it’s cold. In the summer, shade from trees provide a break from the hot sun. In addition, tree leaves release water into the air which adsorbs heat. In the winter, trees shield us from frigid winter winds. The warming and cooling effects of trees help to keep energy costs down throughout the year.

• Trees contribute to a healthier state of mind and body. People with views of trees will recover more quickly from illness. Many prescription drugs have ingredients that are derived from trees. Being able to view trees also contribute to higher productivity and lower levels of stress at the work place.

• Trees help us breath. As oxygen breathing organisms, we rely on trees to continuously replenish our planet's atmospheric oxygen. A single mature tree will transform 26 pounds of poisonous carbon dioxide into life-giving oxygen each year. Enough said.

Since before the dawn of man, trees have done their part to make our earth a habitable place for a countless number of creatures. That being said, one might conclude that our love for trees is more of an instinct than an emotion. By preserving and restoring our forested areas, we can ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy all of the benefits that trees provide.