“To exist as a nation, to prosper as a state, and to live as a people,
we must have trees.” — Theodore Roosevelt
Vancouver has plenty of trees already, right? Nope.
A 2002 Clark County GIS study of Vancouver's canopy cover found the city to be sorely lacking in trees. The analysis revealed that the total tree canopy of the city was only 19.7 percent, far less than the 40 percent recommended for cities in the Pacific Northwest.
Roots of a healthy city
Healthy urban forests help filter water; absorb carbon, sulfur dioxide, dust and other pollutants; and provide homes for wildlife. But did you know trees can also affect your bottom line?
- Trees increase residential and commercial real estate values
- Trees cut noise pollution in half
- Trees block harsh winter weather
- Trees provide shade from the searing summer sun
- Trees help reduce energy bills up to 40 percent
- Trees in business districts encourage people to shop longer, studies show
Trees in our neighborhoods
In honor of Vancouver’s 150th anniversary, Columbia Credit Union has partnered with the City of Vancouver to award a neighborhood that demonstrates the spirit of community. The award, “Neighborhood of the 150th,” will be given through Vancouver’s Sparkles Award program. Among other prizes, the winning group will receive up to 150 trees to plant in their neighborhood, sponsored by Columbia.
Take action
Columbia Credit Union supports the local canopy through donations to Vancouver Urban Forestry and its Sleeves for Trees program. Participate in Sleeves for Trees, and check out the resources below to discover ways you can help plant trees in Clark County.
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