Economic Contributions

Trees or lack of trees can influence economics. A property for sale with five large trees in the front yard yields a 4% higher price than property with small trees or no trees. Similarly, apartments and offices with a green view rent quickly and get higher rent. People also react more favorably to tree lined parking lots of shopping centers; they will pay 12% more in this atmosphere and linger longer. Trees make us feel good, and we’ll pay to be around them.

The Value of a Tree
Landscaping, especially with trees, can significantly increase property values. Here is one example: A value of 9% ($15,000) was determined in a U.S. Tax Court case for the loss of a large black oak on a property valued at $164,500.

Tree Jobs
In the United States, there are approximately 40,000 people working in forestry related fields. The practice of growing, maintaining, and harvesting trees for forest products is good for the environment and the economy.