How Trees Protect Our Water

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency warns that nearly half of the rivers and streams and more than one-third of our lakes are so polluted they are unfit for swimming, fishing, and drinking. The situation is getting worse, and the Council notes that by 2050 the global demand for freshwater is expected to be one-third greater than it is now. 

Clearly, action is needed — now. Although the problem of water pollution is complex and the sources of the pollution are many, planting and caring for trees is the one thing that is within reach of us all. The concepts behind how trees can help clean water are relatively simple. The canopy intercepts rain from storms and retains huge volumes of water that is slowly released into the atmosphere or to otherwise over-burdened municipal facilities such as drain pipes. This, along with simple landscape features such as street-side or backyard swales, can make a significant difference in the quantity and quality of water that reaches streams and rivers. The other contribution is roots. Roots can hold soil in place and take up chemicals such as fertilizers, forming an absorptive barrier between fields or urban developments and waterways. 

In this issue, you will see the relationship between trees and clean water. It is an issue that should concern every American and that can be addressed by individuals, tree boards, and city officials. It is a matter of protecting what might be considered our most important natural resource.