Month: April 2022
Greenwich Free Press: UPDATED: Tree Warden Rules on Fate of Honey Locusts on the GHS Campus 4.18.2022
On Monday afternoon the Tree Warden, Dr. Greg Kramer announced he approved the chopping of two 16″ Honey Locust trees.
“Having closely listed to the explanations as to why the two Honey Locust trees will need to be removed and understanding the process by which the remediation of the contaminated soil transpires, as Tree Warden it is my decision and have concluded that the two trees are approved for removal,” Kramer said.
However, the tree warden said that having heard prior and current concerns from residents and the Greenwich Tree Conservancy of the continuing loss of trees on the campus, he will require that four new Willow Oak (Quecus phellos) trees of no less than 3″ caliper be replanted on the Greenwich High School campus…[continued]
Click here to read the full article on Greenwich Free Press.
Greenwich Sentinel: Do You Know That You Live in an Urban Forest? 4.1.2022
By Urling Searle
President, Greenwich Tree Conservancy
Do you know that you live in an Urban Forest?
You Do!
A quick online search on the benefits trees provide yields a remarkable and extensive body of work. In the US alone, trees are estimated to provide an annual economic value of $18.3 billion from their removal of air pollutants, reduction of energy use, holding of carbon and avoidance of pollutant emissions.
Trees are often the welcome patch of green our eyes seek when looking out a nearby window and the familiar backdrop of outdoor enjoyment with family and friends. The trees along our streets and in our parks, and backyards, make up what is termed an urban forest. A collection of woody plant vegetation growing within a city, town or suburb. In Greenwich we are fortunate to have an internationally recognized arboretum.
As the first leaves of spring unfold, they begin absorbing carbon dioxide transforming it into oxygen through photosynthesis. This produces a measurable spring cleaning of our air. When that rumble of thunder brings with it a downpour, trees retain great quantities of rainwater in the ground, allowing it to filter slowly into the soil where it supports life and fills underground aquifers. This greatly reduces the quantity of toxic chemicals that would otherwise run onto neighboring properties, nearby waterways and Long Island Sound.
When you cross over to the tree shaded side of a street or seek out a spot under a tree to relax on a hot summer afternoon you know how well trees cool the air. The shade created by trees lowers the energy bills of surrounding homes and offices. It also lowers the temperature in parking lots that otherwise act as large heat islands….[continued]
Click here to read the full article in the Greenwich Sentinel.