Today, thousands of trees and 9,600 acres of parks grace our city. Thanks to the ongoing efforts and community of city administrators and local citizens, these urban forest jewels continue to contribute to Portland's well-being. But, to assure the future existence of our urban forest, everyone must work collectively to protect and enhance these vital assets. Learning how to properly plant, care for and preserve your own trees is the most effective action any citizen can take. Benefits of Urban Trees Trees improve the water quality of our rivers and streams by capturing rainfall and reducing erosion and runoff.
Trees provide shade and cooling of streams, which is essential to fish and other aquatic life.
Trees in the combined sewer area prevent millions of gallons of rainwater from entering the Sewage Treatment Plant. Trees improve our air by capturing pollution particles in leaves and reducing carbon dioxide. Trees provide food and shelter for wildlife that would otherwise be displaced. Trees provide shade and can help keep homes and buildings up to 20 degrees cooler in the summer. Trees provide privacy and help reduce noise and glare.