Rights and responsibilities for trees in front of houses vary across states and municipalities. Residential yards abutting public roadways are often overlain by a right-of-way adjacent to the pavement that permits the municipality or state to maintain the road and …
How does urban forestry relate to energy conservation?
When strategically placed, trees can conserve energy by reducing energy demands. Trees are great evapotranspiration “engines,” literally cooling the air around them by absorbing energy as the water in leaves is converted from liquid to gas.
Trees cast shade on …
Are there subsidies or other programs that can be used to plant trees for energy conservation?
Some communities, businesses or state agencies may offer subsidies for tree planting in specific situations. Contact your local office of the State Forestry Commission to see if programs like this exist in your area. You can also check with the …
Will my electric or gas utility company provide me with trees for my property?
Your local gas or electric company may provide you with trees you can plant on your property. This is done to encourage the right kind of trees being planted in the right kinds of places, to reduce peak energy demand, …
Will trees near my home increase the chance of a lightning strike?
Lightning is one of nature’s most powerful forces and is the 2nd leading cause of weather-related deaths. Since trees are often the tallest objects in the landscape, they are vulnerable to being struck by lightning. Only about one-third of the …
Is there anyone who can give me free advice about the trees near my house?
Trees located in public spaces, such as parks and street rights-of-way, are typically the responsibility of the municipality. If this is the case, consult with the local department of parks and recreation or public works. These departments often have an …
Planting Urban Trees: Maintenance Requirements
Too often trees are forgotten and not maintained after being planted. A tree requires proper care, especially in the early stages of its development, to prevent health problems. Consider the following checklist when planting a tree:
- Are there adequate resources
Tree Planting in Cities (Part 2): Site Preparation
Proper preparation of the planting site is critical to good root development. In urban areas, site preparation may require special planning because of the type of planting site, such as street or parking lot plantings. Also, when preparing the site, …
Urban Soils: Contamination and Urban Trees
Soil can be contaminated by masonry, wood, paper, asphalt, paint, fuel, cement, oil, salt, or other materials. Contamination may occur across an entire site, such as an industrial property, or in spots, such as concrete washouts and refueling areas. This …
Urban Soils: Temperature Extremes and Moderating Soil Temperature
Credit: Raina Sheridan
Temperature extremes can alter the chemical and biological characteristics of soils. Urban locations often have higher soil temperatures than rural areas because of the heat that is absorbed by and reflected from buildings, sidewalks, streets, and vehicles. …