Branch out — plant a tree!

A message from Bob Sympson, chairman, East Rockaway Tree Advisory Board:

  Over time, the tree canopy in the village has been greatly reduced. Gone, it seems, are the days when village streets were covered with shade and the ambient temperature was lower. With every large tree that is cut down, the temperature rises and air pollution increases.  To reverse this trend and its urban effects, it is necessary to begin planting shade trees so that we can reap the benefits of mature trees in the future. Besides the cooling effect and reduction of air pollution, if properly placed on the south or southwest side of a residence, a large shade tree can save 15-20 % in air conditioning costs during the summer months. 
Traditional street tree planting has resulted in planting trees in less than optimal locations. This has led to constant sidewalk repairs and tree trimming near electric wires, both of which are costly and whose expense is borne by the homeowner. TAB recommends a nontraditional approach to shade tree planting. The right tree planted in the right place will mature into a full size healthy tree to shade the sidewalk and/or residence. It’s an approach recommended by leading universities and based on scientific research.  Over time, the village will benefit greatly from a larger, healthy tree canopy. This is the ultimate goal of the East Rockaway TAB Shade Tree Planting Partnership. 
Applications for tree planting are due by Mar. 5.