The Value of Trees

For Immediate Release
For Further Information Contact Sonia Garth:
(217) 355-9411 Ext 217

The Value of Trees

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. -- Imagine a world without trees. It's virtually impossible, because without trees we can't survive. Trees are essential to life, yet they are taken for granted. Unfortunately, one million acres of forest are lost to city growth each year.

Trees offer many benefits that are obscure to most, which include:

• Air Filtration - Filtering out particulate matter and absorbing harmful gases
• Purifying Water - Improving water quality by slowing and filtering rain water
• Cost Reduction - Providing shade and shelter, reducing yearly heating and cooling costs by 2.1 billion dollars
• Climate Control - Obtained by moderating the effects of sun, wind, and rain
• Increased Property Value - Well-cared for landscaped properties are 5% to 20% more valuable than non-landscaped estates
• Protection - From downward fall of rain, sleet, and hail, as well as reduction of storm run-off and the possibility of flooding
• Glare and Reflection Control
• Wind Break, Deflection, and Filtration
• Sound Barrier

"Since trees are a growing asset to any property, maintenance of the trees is crucial for long-term health, safety, and aesthetic value," says Tim Gamma, President of Gamma's Trees Service and President of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).

Many people do not realize that trees have a dollar value of their own. Competent tree appraisers can determine the dollar value of your trees and plants by evaluating the size, type (classification), condition, and location of the tree. With a professional evaluation, you may be able to recapture your loss through an insurance claim or as a deduction from your federal income tax if your trees are damaged or destroyed.

However, the best way to prepare for an unfortunate, unexpected loss is to take precautionary measures. Gamma warns, "Even though trees provide many values, hazardous trees can cause significant damage to people's homes if poor conditions exist." Taking the following simple preventive steps can improve the value of your trees and might prevent financial loss in the future:

• Plan your landscape for both beauty and functional value.
• Protect and preserve to maintain worth.
• Take pictures of trees and other landscape plants while they are healthy.
• Check your insurance.
• Keep accurate records of your landscape and real estate appraisals.
• Consult your local ISA Certified Arborist (find them at www.treesaregood.org) at every stage in the life of your landscape to prevent unnecessary financial loss when casualty strikes.

Trees are alive, like us, and require an investment and continuous maintenance. Take the above preventative measures to protect your trees.

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), headquartered in Champaign, Ill., is a non-profit organization supporting tree care research and education around the world. As part of ISA's dedication to the care and preservation of shade and ornamental trees, it offers the only internationally-recognized certification program in the industry. For more information, contact a local ISA Certified Arborist or visit www.isa-arbor.com.