Here it is the last Friday of the month which, for many people, is the day known as Arbor Day. Arbor Day was established on April 10, 1872 to encourage us to plant a tree.  Today on the Top 5 at 7:45, I'll highlight my top reasons as why we should be planting trees in America and what trees actually do for us. Are you going to plant a tree this spring? The Wyoming State Tree is the Cottonwood Tree.

  1. It Makes Oxygen - It's been said that in one year, an acre of trees can provide oxygen for 18 people. Plus, many trees provide shade that helps water in rivers and streams from evaporating to quickly.
  2. Air Filters & Cleaners - Trees tend to absorb many pollutant odors and gasses in the air like ammonia and sulfur dioxide. Trees are able to do this by trapping them in their bark and leaves.
  3. They Provide Wildlife Homes - Whether it's an old, dead snag or a vibrant tree, they provide great homes for all kinds of wildlife. Squirrels, birds, bees and butterflies, to name a few.
  4. They Help Mark The Seasons - Whether the leaves are budding, green, turning colors or gone, trees are able to help us know what season we are in or heading into.
  5. They Help Heal - There is a study that shows people that have access to trees in nature, tend to heal quicker with less complications in recovery. They are also known to have helped to reduce mental fatigue and children with ADHD.

There are so many other reason to plant trees such as: energy, home building, erosion prevention, shade, protection from ultra-violet rays and so on.

The Top 5 at 7:45 airs weekdays with me, Gary Freeman and sponsored by First Education Federal Credit Union. Plant a tree today! 

 

More From KGAB