TREES REDUCE POLLUTION
Streamside forests prevent sediments and other pollutants from reaching the stream. In addition, because forested streams are healthier, they are more able than deforested streams to process the pollution that does enter them. Healthy, forested streams are full of life, including microscopic organisms that are efficient at breaking down pollutants. Planting trees along streams supports a rich variety of life that can continue to clean our water for us, naturally.

TREES REDUCE FLOODING
Forests function like sponges. Roots from trees and shrubs break up the soil so that rainwater soaks into the ground, rather than running off the surface. This helps reduce flooding and replenish groundwater, another important source of drinking water.

TREES DECREASE DRINKING WATER COSTS
Poor water quality costs taxpayers money. Streamside forests reduce the cost of clean drinking water by reducing the need for chemicals to treat the water.

Streamside Forests = Cleaner, Cheaper Water A 10% increase in forest cover in a drinking source area results in a 20% decrease in treatment and chemical costs.