Tree canopy

How many readers love Virginia trees? My guess is all of us. No one wants to destroy them, but the truth is thousands of trees go down in the jaws of a feller buncher far from our eyes and ears.

Nearly 10,000 acres of tree canopy was decimated in Virginia between 2014 and 2018. Tree canopies provide a vital resource to combat the impacts of climate change and safeguard clean water. I’d like to thank my lawmakers, state Sen. Aaron Rouse and Del. Kelly Convirs-Fowler, for their support of recent legislation (HB459, HB1100 and SB121) to protect tree canopies.

Trees are one of the most cost-effective solutions to protect streams, alleviate flooding impact and prevent polluted runoff from reaching waterways. Their roots absorb water and nutrients, enable soil to absorb rainfall and prevent erosion. Cooling effects can be observed in communities with significant tree canopies, leading to reduced energy usage, not to mention aesthetic benefits.

Treeless neighborhoods are significantly hotter. They are known as heat islands and bear a significant amount of heat-related hospital visits. Heat islands are concentrated in formerly redlined areas, making the issue an environmental-justice concern. Development, wildfires, road expansion, invasive species and increased energy infrastructure are to blame for Virginia’s loss of tree canopy.

Recent legislation focuses on enabling localities to conserve trees during development and incentivize environmental assessments before site plans are submitted for approval. Trees combat climate change and improve water quality. I’m grateful my lawmakers recognize their value to environmental and human health.

— Susan Feathers, Virginia Beach