Photo by Frances Litman

Kudos to Michael Meagher for this Letter to the Editor in the Nov. 22nd Times Colonist.

Capital Regional District data regarding the loss of tree canopy in our urban core from 1998 to 2011: Saanich leads with 585 hectares, Langford is second with 452 hectares, Colwood is third with 429 hectares.

The total loss of tree canopy in the core area is 1,038 hectares.

Trees work for us (unpaid) by providing shade, releasing oxygen (good for the blood), fix CO2, harbour insects that recycle plant matter, also birds that recycle some of those helpful insects, thereby reducing loss of our garden produce.

Humans benefit specifically by reduced heart rate, blood pressure, stress-hormone release, improved mental health and improved recovery by patients in view of trees. We should not forget the benefits from raking leaves, lower temperatures and cleaner air via screening dust from the air.

Anyone for a tax reduction on properties that contain trees?

Michael Meagher

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