Thursday, December 22, 2011

Ohio State Research Shows Dollar Value of Urban Trees

Thanks to the research of a graduate student in the Department of Entomology at The Ohio State University and funding from Bayer Environmental Science, the city of Wooster, OH now knows the true value of the trees that line its streets.

By "value" we don't simply mean trees' contribution to the ecosystem or the fact that they beautify landscapes. Rather, we mean trees' true dollar value.

In mid-2010, the graduate student, Alejandro Chiriboga, recorded tree attributes such as trunk circumference and leaf condition among more than 3,000 of Wooster's city-owned trees. Using Forest Service software, he then totaled the dollar value of the environmental services trees provide, including reducing pollution and carbon in the atmosphere.

Chiriboga's research concluded that, annually, the trees generate $270,153 in community services, including aesthetic benefits, energy conservation, stormwater control and carbon and air pollution reduction. Chiriboga's study found that most of Wooster's street trees are young and healthy, which means they will contribute environmentally--and therefore economically--to the city well into the future.

Things in nature have always seemed priceless. So this study raises an interesting question: Can you really put a dollar amount on them? Apparently, you can. The question now is, will this experiment stop at trees? Or will it extend to lawns, shrubs and plants on the landscape?

Will mowing a lawn be deemed a loss in dollars? Will planting a flower bed boost the value of a landscape? It's hard to say. But at the very least, the OSU study has given us something new and interesting to ponder.

8 comments:

Reema Kapoor said...
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Eva said...

Imagine streets lined with leafy green trees. Picture stunning forest views on a country property. These are some of the characteristics buyers are looking for in a property, and they may be willing to pay for the realization of their vision.

Mark said...

If the tree is close to your sidewalk or driveway, be sure to consider the damage to these surfaces after tree removal. Fragile materials such as tiles can break easily, which is why you should take the necessary measures to prevent losses after tree removal .

Kyle said...

The quality of pruning cuts can be evaluated by examining pruning wounds after one growing season. A concentric ring of wound wood will form from proper pruning cuts. Call a tree removal experts!

Eva said...

Trees are an Investment. Almost everyone knows that trees and other living plants are valuable. They beautify our surroundings, purify our air, act as sound barriers, manufacture precious oxygen, and help us save energy through their cooling shade in summer and their wind reduction in winter. Invest with Wichita Falls Tree Services

Beks said...

As a tree grows, defective branches and watersprouts are found in the tree's crown from time to time. If these are not removed in a timely manner, the condition may worsen and affect the overall health of the tree.

Landscaping Company

Amanda said...

Dead branches pose a potential risk to property and life especially when there is a storm. Trees whose branches touch power lines are quite dangerous. Trimming will help prevent accidents by cutting off the high-risk branches from the trees.

Gia said...

We do not recommend removing a tree on your own or without the help of a certified arborist. Tree care professionals have an understanding of many different tree species in a multitude of situations, and have been trained in the safest and most efficient ways to remove them.