April 01, 2013

Join the L&C tree-planting events, April 7-12

L&C to plant 100 trees in five years in order to earn Tree Campus USA designation

The Value of Our Trees…Every Tree Counts

In celebration of Arbor Week, Grounds Steward and Arborist, Suzie Spencer, is kicking off two tree-related programs on the undergraduate campus with several events.  The first is 100 Trees in Five Years where the Grounds Department has committed to plant trees throughout campus to increase our canopy’s diversity and ensure the succession of trees for future generations.  This project initiates the second program which is the pursuit of recognizing Lewis & Clark as a Tree Campus USA through the Arbor Day Foundation.

During the month of April, you may notice price tags hanging from trees around the undergraduate campus.  No, the Grounds Crew is not trying to plump up their donut fund…these price tags are the beginning of an initiative to communicate the value of our trees and the constant benefits they provide our community. 

On a campus of constant change and improvement, it can be difficult to portray the often subjective benefits of trees in a tangible and defendable way.  Everyone knows the presence of trees makes people happier, reduces crime, and cleans the air.  But, very few know that these benefits can be assigned a dollar amount through calculations that have enough scientific bases to hold up in court.  This is where the National Tree Benefit Calculator comes in handy.  It is an online calculator developed by a national arboriculture firm that allows the environmental, social, and financial benefits of any tree to be assigned a dollar amount.  All you need to know is the size of your tree (DBH, measured at 4.5 feet from tree base), and your zip code!

TREE ACTIVITIES ON CAMPUS

FUN TREE FACTS

Trees lower air temperature by evaporating water in their leaves.

In one year, an acre of trees can absorb as much carbon as is produced by a car driven up to 8,700 miles.

Trees are the longest living organisms on earth.

The world’s oldest trees are 4,600 year old Bristlecone pines in the USA.

Two mature trees can supply enough oxygen annually to support a family of four.

The average tree in an urban/city area has a life expectancy of only 8 years.

 

For more information about Arbor Week and the benefits of trees and volunteer opportunities, visit the following websites: