Trees and forests have become more than just an overlooked and under appreciated community resource - they are a resource at risk and one whose loss is increasingly costly to communities and the environment. Developed areas with less than 20 percent tree cover are rapidly expanding, costing communities, citizens and the environment billions of dollars in added expenses for stormwater management, air pollution cleanup and energy consumption. Cities without trees are "heat islands." Urban sprawl is responsible for the demise of innumerable acres of trees every year, and has been identified as the number one threat to trees and forests in the United States.

One solution: protect and restore trees and forests as a cost-effective way to improve the environment, clean our water and air, and make our communities more healthy, livable and affordable. Another solution is to concentrate development in ways that protect important natural elements and build communities. Mature trees afford huge savings in energy costs. Windbreaks can lower home heating bills by up to 30 percent. Trees remove air pollution by lowering air temperature, through respiration, and by retaining particulates. Trees can increase the value of your home by 15 percent or more, they support many generations of birds and other wildlife, and they improve community pride.

Area residents can take positive steps towards preserving our trees and forests this Arbor Day (April 29) by planting trees on their own properties (the Missouri Department of Conservation will distribute free tree seedlings at the Parkville ceremony) or by participating in a community event like the Heart Forest work day. Trees have been shown to be important allies to our health and well-being. Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, "In the woods we return to reason and faith." This month, you can do yourself and your planet a favor by planting trees.