David Kiester

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Strengthening Our Urban Forest: A Vital Solution for Weathering Storms

By David Kiester

Imagine a world where nature isn't just scenery but a strategic ally, where trees are more than silent witnesses to storms—they are our protectors. Trees, often considered hazards and liabilities during extreme weather events like hurricanes, hold untapped potential as natural buffers that can significantly mitigate damage to our buildings and infrastructure. This article uncovers the powerful synergy of investing in our urban forests (the trees in your yard and by our businesses), presenting a dynamic narrative that showcases the potential for prosperity while embracing nature's strength.

Wind Whispers

The winds of change blow strong, and property owners must adapt. Enter healthy urban forests, the natural barrier against wind damage. Trees not only slow down the wind but can significantly cut down its velocity. Wind speed reduction begins the moment the wind kisses the first surface it meets. With enough trees between the storm and your building, your roof is spared from being the battleground against fierce winds.

Strength in Numbers

Just like a team of superheroes, a diverse group of trees—varying in species, ages, and layers—forms an unbeatable alliance. Together, they shield surrounding structures from the wrath of the wind and increase their own odds of surviving the storm. It's a power play, where unity becomes the key to weathering the storm.

When It Rains, It Pours

Heavy rain often brings chaos, but within an urban forest, it's a well-choreographed dance. Trees intercept raindrops like an umbrella; the canopy slows down the descent of the rainwater to the ground, allowing for a more gradual release into the soil and promoting evaporation during its travels. Additionally, their roots play a crucial role, sipping up excess water and reducing stress on the urban sewer systems.  

Mangroves: Coastal Guardians

Along our coastal urban forests, mangroves are often removed in favor of pristine ocean views, yet they are the secret weapon to preventing land erosion over time and mitigating deadly storm surge during violent storms. Their impact isn't just environmental; it's economic. By protecting coastlines, mangroves ensure the safety of coastal businesses, preserving assets and livelihoods. Their impact was evident during Hurricane Irma in 2017: it is estimated mangroves averted $1.5 billion in storm damages, which amounts to a 25% savings in reduction benefits, while protecting 626,000 people.

Treating trees as a risk and a liability during severe storms is a misconception. They are, in fact, valuable assets and allies. Our urban forests hold untapped potential, providing not only environmental benefits but also a strong business case for investment. Resisting the urge to cut our trees down in the face of short-term challenges is essential, as this perpetuates a vicious cycle of extreme weather. Instead, we must invest in and strengthen our urban forest, viewing it as a long-term cost-saving and risk management strategy. By fortifying our urban forests, we enhance property values, mitigate storm damages, and save lives.

Tips for Better Storm Protection:

·      Group trees together for increased resilience.

o   5 or more trees growing within 10 ft of each other (but not in a row) survive winds better than trees grown individually

·      Ensure trees have adequate rooting space for a strong root system.

o   A strong supporting root system is the most critical factor of a tree’s ability to withstand heavy winds. Sidewalks, curbs, buildings, and other urban structures restrict root development.

·      Remove hazardous trees

o   Over-mature trees and species with poor wind resistance (sand pine, Chinese elm, water oak, and laurel oak) are least likely to survive hurricanes

·      Plant new trees to replace those lost or removed, creating a mix of young and mature trees.

o   The mixture of young and mature trees when grouped are better adept at the mitigation of wind damage on surrounding structures.

o   Choose wind-resistant tree species such as sand live oaks, Southern magnolias, live oaks, crape myrtles, bald cypresses, and sabal palms.

·      Prioritize properly maintaining the health of your trees by enlisting the services of a professional.

o   Poor pruning practices, such as topping or removing large branches, make trees more susceptible to wind failure.

·      Assess damaged trees with the help of a professional arborist to determine their viability and potential for recovery.

o   Trees can lose some or all of their leaves in a hurricane and still be viable.

We must prioritize our urban forest as infrastructure essential for our survival. Individual and governmental investment, upkeep, and maintenance are imperative, along with communal commitment and respect. While urban forests cannot be entirely invulnerable to climate change impacts, thoughtful management enhances resilience, enabling cities and communities to adapt to inevitable changes. Together, let's fortify our urban forests and weather the storms of tomorrow.