Trees
Aug 12, 2002
I loved your article in the Deer Park neighborhhod newsletter about improving property values, but another thing you could mention is the added value that mature trees can add, for example pin oaks, red maples, ginkos and birch trees. When placed properly they can provide excellent shade in the brutal sun, keep your car from deteroirating from UV rays and cut down drastically on cooling bills in the summer. Trees also produce oxygen to combat polllution . It would be nice to invite the city's arborist for an instructional seminar about planting trees, which ones to avoid (Bradford Pears are not a good choice of tree because they break apart in windstorms and are not long lived) and maybe spend some of the neighborhoods money on a tree give-away. As you know a lot of the trees lost during the tornado 30 years ago have still not been replaced. It would also be nice to have a tree policy like the city of Anchorage where they are true tree huggers. I believe you need a permit to remove any tree with a trunk greater that 6 inches in diameter. It is also wonderful to see the lovely trees that the city is replacing along Eastern Parkway and Willow Ave. I just hope they don't forget to water them occasionally during this hot dry season.Another great thing about deciduous trees is the awsome colors they sprout in the fall to the enjoyment of all leaf peepers.