I like trees. I have two huge oaks and they make me happy. Most people I know tend to like theirs as well. That’s the basic mindset in which I read a recent FFAF comment thread discussing our largely non-existent residential tree ordinance.

Caveat: I tend to bristle at heavy-handed meddling in my affairs so I’ve never been a big fan of neighborhood tree ordinances. Wanna chop down all your trees? You’re outta your mind as far as I’m concerned but, hey, I’m not you. It’s your yard. Have at it.

Instead, I’ve always wished we could simply inspire people to value trees. Not just an individual tree but the culture of trees — the ongoing planting, nurturing and enjoyment of them. Not for emotional reasons or under threat of fines, but in practical, measurable terms. And that’s why today felt like Christmas morning, because my wish came true in the form of this posting on The Atlantic Cities site.

As it turns out, trees aren’t just pretty. They’re serious bottom line performers, and in ways that seem very compatible with how we tend to think and behave around here.

In the referenced studies, not only did a tree in front of one’s house add more than $7,000 to its sales price, it added $13,000 to the value of the house next door.

Uh, whah?!

Read the rest of this entry »