Trees provide many environmental, social, and economic benefits that include, but are not limited to, the following.
(A) Trees produce oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, thereby reducing air pollution and improving air quality.
(B) Trees filter out dust, particulate matter, and airborne pollutants, thereby improving air quality.
(C) Trees intercept precipitation, thereby reducing storm water runoff and improving water quality.
(D) Tree roots hold the soil, thereby reducing soil erosion and sedimentation and improving water quality.
(E) Trees provide shade and cooling and provide windbreaks, thereby reducing energy usage
and air conditioning and heating costs.
(F) Trees provide wildlife food and habitat.
(G) Trees buffer different land uses to eliminate or minimize nuisances such as dust, litter, noise, glare, signs, and unsightly buildings or parking areas.
(H) Trees improve public health by reducing stress, encouraging exercise, calming traffic, decreasing illness recovery times, reducing crime and domestic violence, and improving concentration.
(I) Trees attract residents, visitors, commerce and industry to the city and increase the value and marketability of property.
(J) Trees beautify the city and protect and enhance the quality of life.
(Ord. 03-02, passed 3-10-03)