Urban Forestry info to reduce cardon dioxide

The Forest Service's Pacific Southwest Research Station has developed methods for determining the amount of atmospheric carbon dioxide reductions associated with urban forestry programs.

"Carbon Dioxide Reduction Through Urban Forestry: Guidelines for Professional and Volunteer Tree Planters" (General Technical Report PSW-GTR-171) is designed to be used by utilities, urban foresters/arborists, municipalities, consultants, and others interested in estimating the carbon sequestration and energy savings benefits of planting trees in urban settings.

The analysis examines existing tree cover and housing stock, the size and type of trees planted, whether the trees are planted within 50 feet of buildings, the climate region, and emissions factors for heating and cooling. Look-up tables are provided for estimating the effects of shading on cooling and heating, the effect of reduced wind speed on heating, climate effects, sequestration, decomposition, maintenance, and other program-related effects over a 40-year period.

Copies of this document can be ordered from the Pacific Southwest Research Station's web site at http://www.psw.fs.fed.us/Tech_Pub/order.html or by calling Richard Schneider at (970) 498-1703. Copies can also be obtained by contacting the Communications Center at 1-800-803-5182 or infoghg@eia.doe.gov.