Group helps community one tree at a time

By Lexi McCarthy

North Texas has one of the most challenging urban climates in the United States. The DFW Metroplex endures oppressive summer heat, limited rainfall, poor soil and one of the nation’s worst problems with air pollution. Energy costs and usage are rising, and the urban heat island effect continues to increase temperatures. Texas Trees Foundation recognizes that residents are at risk and need a solution.

This is where Texas Trees Foundation (Texas Trees) steps in with its vision for community. It’s a community comprised of beautiful, well-maintained parks, shady tree-lined streets and boulevards, hiking, biking and nature trails, and other outdoor amenities. These combine to form a living and working environment that enhances the economic value of commercial areas and neighborhoods, and nurtures the health, safety, and quality of life of all citizens.

Texas Trees recognizes the importance outdoor spaces play in everyone’s lives, and supporting the nonprofit does more than just help plant trees, it helps create a new green legacy for North Texas. Texas Trees believes in transformational, research-based plans that educate the public to mobilize the social, economic, environmental and health benefits that trees and urban forestry provide.

The Texas Trees Foundation believes in the following core principles: education is essential to changing behavior; trees increase the quality of life in communities and are an essential component to sustainable, resilient communities; land stewardship is the key to healthy trees, people and a healthy community; and trees and people need to be nurtured and celebrated.

Donations raised amplify several of the nonprofit’s programs including the “Cool Schools Program” connecting students and teachers to nature, “Neighborwoods” providing free trees to homeowners living in park deserts and more.

“With [neighbor’s] support, our communities will be cleaner, greener, cooler and healthier for generations to come,” CEO Janette Monear said.

Since 1982, Texas Trees Foundation has planted more than 1.5 million trees. The overall environmental impact of these trees is estimated to have removed more than 13 million pounds of air pollution and sequestered 3.2 billion pounds of carbon dioxide, saving the region an estimated $145.8 million.

The organization aspires to grow its tree canopy coverage and impact. Funding helps protect the region’s natural resources, preserve wildlife habitats, and promote sustainable practices in our community. Texas Trees is participating in Communities Foundation of Texas’ annual North Texas Giving Day. Gifts will uplift its urban forestry mission in North Texas.

Learn more at TexasTrees.org.