What is happening to our trees?

What is happening to our trees?

We are losing trees and open space at a dramatic rate. We must both save and plant more trees to reduce the negative impact of these changes.

JOIN WITH US AND BECOME PART OF THE SOLUTION!

We are losing trees and open space at a dramatic rate. According to the 2008 study of Mecklenburg County completed by American Forests, Inc., between 1985 and 2008 we lost 33% of tree canopy, 2.8% of our open space, and increased our urban/impervious area (roads, parking lots, buildings) by 60%. The most recent study completed by University of Vermont in 2018 indicates Charlotte’s tree canopy percentage has declined to 45% of landcover, a decline of 5% from 2008.  Loss of tree canopy results in lost air quality benefits, loss of greenhouse storage in trees, loss of greenhouse gas removal services by trees, and increased costs to manage storm water; not to mention loss of habitat, less stream protection, and negative impacts to home values.

The loss of natural area and trees coupled with large increases in impervious surfaces amounts to unsustainable growth and our environment will continue to degrade if we do not act.

As a volunteer you will fill a key role in making the natural environment in Mecklenburg County and its communities a healthier place for fish, wildlife, trees and people both now and for future generations.

We depend upon donations from our members and sponsors to make our programs possible. Please consider making a donation today to assist us in our efforts to protect our local environment.

YOU KNOW ME, I THINK THERE OUGHT TO BE A BIG OLD TREE RIGHT THERE. AND LET’S GIVE HIM A FRIEND. EVERYBODY NEEDS A FRIEND.
~ Bob Ross

Creek ReLeaf

The Creek ReLeaf Program is a collaborative effort of the Charlotte Public Tree Fund, Charlotte Mecklenburg Storm water Services, the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, and our dedicated volunteers and financial supporters to plant trees in riparian areas (floodplain and stream buffers) of Mecklenburg County. Download the Creek ReLeaf Waiver