Berkeley Heights Township : Berkeley Heights Residents Can Request Trees In Front Of Their Homes

Press release from the Berkeley Heights Township:

February 10, 2022

In its efforts to maintain the tree canopy and improve air quality in the township, the Berkeley Heights Environmental Commission with help from a Union County grant is purchasing trees to plant along the right of way (within 8 to 10 feet from the curb) in the Township this spring. Residents who would like to request a tree, please email their names and street addresses to: EC@bhtwp.com. Deadline for tree requests is February 27.

 Trees help us feel good. They are known to improve air quality by capturing six common air pollutants and toxic gases: ground-level ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide and lead. In a study published in 2013, U.S. Forest Service scientists and collaborators calculated that urban trees and forests are saving an average of one life every year per city and preventing 670,000 incidents of acute respiratory symptoms.

 Trees play a critical role in creating healthier, safer, and more connected communities according to the Arbor Day Foundation. In addition to filtering our water, they even slow storm surge and flooding in our cities. Treesalso provide shade and cool our cities by up to 10 degrees, which can help prevent heat-related deaths in urban areas.

 There is no charge to the homeowner to plant the tree. But the Commission asks the homeowner to water the tree once a week if it does not rain. Trees will be planted in the right of way and away from utility lines. If you have questions, please email EC@bhtwp.com

This press release was produced by the Berkeley Heights Township. The views expressed here are the author’s own.