Agenda - Council - 09/27/1994 - Laserfiche WebLink

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!4) Providing Habitat Ramsey is lo~ated in the Anoka Sand Plains glacial landscape of Minnesota. The largest population gr4up of trees in this area are oaks. There are also substantial stands of planted pines. In conjunctior! with our riverine resources, these trees provide habitat for many species of birds, animals, insects, and micro-organisms. b. Reg;1 Estate In addition to'many indirect and often.intangible economic values, trees often have substantial direct monetary values. Real estate agents and home buyers assign a large percent of the value of a residence to thee trees on the property. Local governments, such as the City of Ramsey, capture some of this ~onetary value through an increase assessed values and the tax base. The three factors that most affect tree value are: species, condition, and location. c. Social and Historic/Psychological and Aesthetic Although les~ empirically measurable, the emotional values of trees and forests are widely recognized. ~he enjoyment we associate with trees is more practical than generally recognized. The contentment and stress relief associated with a trees deliver substantial health benefits. Trees provide important symbolic links with the past. If a living tree is associated with important events, the tree takes On historical values unrelated to aesthetics or usefulness. Old trees may be regarded as important isimply because they have lived through eras with which we have few other connections. Tree planting pro,ri'ams often generate comn'mnity identity, cooperation, and benefits similar to thos~ reported for urban gardening, lawn care, and landscaping.