WASHINGTON, DC - The city of Garland, TX, is saving more than $5 million annually from its urban tree canopy, according to findings by the American Forests' Urban Forest Center. American Forests' officials recently conducted an Urban Ecosystem Analysis (UEA) of the City of Garland to map, measure and analyze the value of the city's tree cover for stormwater management, air quality and energy conservation. The UEA technique conducted in Garland used Geographic Information System technology along with scientific research to calculate the effects of trees on the urban environment. CITYgreenR computer software designed and marketed by American Forests was also used in the analysis.

In 1993, Garland adopted innovative tree preservation regulations for new developments. Unlike requirements common in other municipalities that only preserve trees of certain sizes or species, Garland's regulations require the saving of a certain percentage of the total canopy coverage and tree communities.

The tree canopy reduces stormwater runoff and thereby saves an estimated $2.8 million annually that would otherwise be required for the construction of retention facilities. Garland's tree canopy provides the city with other benefits, including the removal of 497,000 pounds of pollutants a year, a value estimated at $1.2 million annually. The city's urban forest currently stores an estimated 209,000 tons of carbon and sequesters about 531 tons of carbon each year. The trees also help cool the city, saving an estimated $1.3 million in residential energy costs.

"The Garland study clearly shows the benefits trees have on cities," said Gary Moll, vice president of American Forests' Urban Forest Center. "Too often, city planners and officials look at trees only in terms of their aesthetic value. This report illustrates the financial savings and positive health effects trees can have on the urban area, and how these benefits can increase as tree cover increases. It's especially significant considering sprawl is one of the biggest environmental problems facing the nation today."