The loss of tree cover is partly responsible for Atlanta's water woes and air pollution.
Trees help prevent erosion and soil from getting into the city's water supply.
And they help reduce the temperature of the city in the summer, a major factor that contributes to Atlanta's ozone problem. In theory, Atlantans love their trees. But in practice, the region has been far too willing to cut them down to make way for development. Right at the core of 'smart growth' is making sure we keep Atlanta as a city in a forest. Trees Atlanta, the region's leading advocate for the city's green space, just released its first report on the state of Atlanta's trees.