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 …
Who do I call to get permission to plant a street tree in front of my house?
Jurisdiction and authority over streetside planting spaces vary across the United States. In some localities, the city retains complete control over street tree planting. In other localities, the adjacent private property owner is responsible for the space and is encouraged …
Are some trees better for energy conservation than others?
It depends on which part of the country you live in.
In northern latitudes with cold winters, dense evergreens planted to block chilling winds are important for conserving heat energy. Likewise, deciduous shade trees with a sparse branching habit are …
What should I do after a storm has damaged my tree(s)?
Storm-damaged trees should be evaluated by a professional arborist. A Certified or Consulting Arborist may recommend removal or various improvement measures such as pruning, cabling, lightning protection, root invigoration, fertilization, etc.
The Arbor Day Foundation has a nice page …
I live in an apartment. How can I help conserve energy with trees?
Living in an apartment does not preclude citizens from helping their communities conserve energy with trees. Close to home, tenants can encourage landlords to plant trees as a way to save money and add curb appeal to their properties. Shade …
What is evapotranspiration?
Evapotranspiration is a combination of evaporation and transpiration. Evaporation is a physical process that transforms liquid water into vapor by absorbing heat. Transpiration is the biological process of plants releasing water vapor through leaves. This water was previously pulled up …
How does vegetation help reduce noise pollution in urban ecosystems?
Vegetation reduces noise pollution through a phenomenon called sound attenuation, which is the reduction of sound intensity. Normal attenuation of sound occurs as the energy of sound dissipates over long distances until not enough energy is left to vibrate …