Million Tree Project FAQs

How much carbon do trees take in?

In the Northern Hemisphere each mature tree sequesters approximately 13 kilograms (28.66 pounds) of carbon per year.

As well as sequestering carbon, how else do trees save energy, protect the environment and create a positive economic benefit?

In an urban area trees reduce summer temps from 5 to 10 degrees, reduce the need for heating in the winter by slowing the winds, and increase overall real estate values by 3% to 6% (source: Plan B 3.0).

According to the March-April 2006 edition of Minnesota Conservation Volunteer, one tree planted on the west side of a house returns per year: $34 in heating costs, $20 in cooling costs, $10 in storm water management, $8 in air quality improvement.

In Minneapolis, 200,000 trees return $24.9 million in energy savings alone. A mature tree after expenses subtracted (planting, pruning, removal, etc.) returns $79 per tree per year.

Will the Bend of the River Million Tree Project plant trees on private property?

In the future the Million Tree Project will provide planters for tree plantings on private property but not the trees themselves. The property owner must pay for the trees — currently the cost is about 50 cents per seedling. The Bend of the River Million Tree Project can order the seedlings and receive a bulk discount, plus provide the property owner with information about which types of trees to plant and how to care for them.

For larger areas, if the owner agrees to give the an environmental easement that protects the planting, then the Million Tree Project might consider paying for and planting the trees.

What kinds of trees will the Million Tree Project plant?

At present the project is planting only native hardwoods including but not limited to oak, maple, hackberry, cottonwood and basswood. Evergreens are not native with the exception of Juniper, which may be planted in small quantities.

What if I want to find out more about the Bend of the River Million Tree Project?

Contact Malda Farnham at 507-345-7339 or via email.