Trees are the most powerful plant in our ecosystem. From lowering energy costs to providing habitat for wildlife, the benefits of trees are endless. I became a certified tree care advisor in 2025 because I am passionate about teaching our community why we need to keep our current trees healthy, how to plant for climate change, and basic tree care. With the negative effects of climate change, it is more important now than ever to advocate for trees. I hope after reading this article you will see all the beautiful reasons why we need to take action and protect our forests.
Reasons For Tree Decline
There are many factors that play a role in urban tree decline. While some of these events are out of human control, we can learn to adapt to certain adverse conditions.
- Pests and diseases such as Emerald Ash Borer, Oak Wilt, and Dutch Elm Disease can wipe out many trees quickly.
- Climate change is real and happening faster here in Minnesota than the global average. Climate Change in Minnesota: 23 signs | MPR News.
- Deforestation: Woodlands are becoming too industrialized.
- Extreme weather events- Greater rainfalls in short periods of time and longer drought days
- Environmental stress such as salt, road construction, and pollution
- Pesticides
- Invasive species
- Fire
48 Reasons Why Trees are Great
Inspiration to plant a new tree this year.
Trees-
- The lungs of the earth
- Filter out harmful pollutants from the air
- Supply oxygen for humans and animals
- Improve mental health
- Reduce storm water runoff
- Provide critical habitat for wildlife
- Create food
- Absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide
- Enhance community attractiveness
- Create jobs
- Reduce home energy costs
- Increase property values
- Lumber is used for goods
- Improve soil quality
- Help reduce skin cancer, natural sunscreen
- Intercept rainwater to prevent flooding
- Cooling area in a recreation location
- Lower crime rates in communities with more trees
- Provide a social gathering space
- Is a crucial plant for many pollinators
- Reduce noise levels
- Help with pain and healing
- Reduces stress
- Treehouses!
- Butterfly nesting sites
- Privacy
- Everyday products like toilet paper
- People spend more money in shopping centers with trees
- Encourage physical activity
- Christmas trees
- Used for windbreaks
- Reduce chances of heat related illnesses
- Encourage healthy diet with food from fruit and nuts
- Lower temperatures within cities green spaces
- Improve air quality- many people are living within dangerous levels
- Reduce soil erosion
- Serve as a memorial symbol
- Help the human immune system
- Reduce the need for street maintenance
- Provide us with year-round color and beauty
- Childhood asthma rates are lower in areas with more trees
- Improved educational performance in school where trees are in view
- Campfire wood
- Play an important role in climate change
- Conifers protect deer in the winter
- Food source for birds
- Promote healing and mental clarity
- Play the most important role in Earth’s survival
How You Can Play a Role to Help
- Add species that are predicted to adapt with climate change. The Minnesota DNR has a great page and video to get you started. Suggested trees include Bur Oak, Sugar Maple, and Shagbark Hickory. Best native yard trees for our changing climate | Minnesota DNR
- Remove invasive species such as buckthorn, that outcompete beneficial native trees.
- Prioritize natives when possible. Natives are more adaptable to our climate and needed by certain species of birds and insects.
- Follow proper planting guidelines. See my new planting checklist for tips on how to start your tree off to the best healthy start. Inspect trees regularly for signs of pests, disease, or injury.
References:
Urban Forestry Outreach and Research (UFOR) | The UFOR Nursery & Lab
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