For every four trees that are destroyed, only one is planted. Trees are essential to life, and they add splendor to the land that surrounds them. Not to mention in an urban environment, such as Houston, they help clean and cool the air, provide a buffer to sound and wind, offer animal habitats, offer shade, manage rainwater, and prevent erosion.
Trees also bring relaxation into our lives by supporting swings and hammocks.
The Texas Medical Center was recently a recipient of the Trees for Houston Arbor Day Award 2001. Each year, Trees for Houston recognizes Houstonians who have helped make our city a greener and cleaner place to live. The Texas Medical Center was recognized for planting and preserving trees on Bertner Avenue, and within the Smith Lands parking lots, as well as continuing to plant and preserve the numerous live oaks within the heart of the Texas Medical Center. Trees for Houston is a volunteer, nonprofit organization dedicated to the planting of trees in the Houston area. Since the organization's founding in 1983, nearly 149,000 trees have been planted and monitored along Houston's freeways, thoroughfares, residential streets and schools.