Trees are undeniably beautiful. However, their appeal goes well beyond that. Tree perform many functions besides looking good. One of the most overlooked and underappreciated benefits that trees provide is their ability to reduce the volume of water rushing through pipes and gutters during a storm. After the recent rainstorms in Central Texas, this aspect of trees has proven very beneficial.
Because of this ability to retain stormwater runoff, trees keep us from needing to make more of an investment in our infrastructure. In Austin and the surrounding areas, this is welcome news. Our infrastructure is maxed out as it is. However, even more importantly, perhaps is the fact that cleaner water results by the time the runoff reaches rivers and lakes. Trees clean and purify the water that goes through them so there’s less junk in it. This helps make our rivers, lakes and drinking water better.
So, how do trees help with stormwater runoff?
Trees do this in a variety of ways.
- Trees intercept rain and hold a portion of it on their leaves and bark. Part of this intercepted rain eventually evaporates. The other part gets gradually released into the soil keeping it moist and healthy.
- Fallen leaves help form a spongy layer that moderates soil temperature. It also helps retain moisture and harbors organisms that break down matter. Trees recycle elements for use in plant regrowth. This important layer allows rain to percolate into the soil rather than rushing off carrying pollutants like oil, metals and other toxins. It keeps the water cleaner and the soil healthier.
- Below ground, a tree’s roots hold the soil in place and absorb water that will eventually be released into the atmosphere by transpiration.
So, whether they are standing alone to intercept the rain or working in conjunction with water-retention facilities, trees make significant contributions to preventing stormwater runoff from getting to be too difficult for the local environment to manage. Their benefits are practical in that they can save money for the community while adding beauty to our landscapes.
See, why we love trees! They have so much to offer us.
Please stay tuned to our blog. Each week we will share something new and interesting regarding trees. We look forward to continuing to educate you on the value of trees.
