CHAMPAIGN, IL - Imagine a world without trees. It's virtually impossible, because without trees we can't survive. Trees are essential to life and yet, they are taken for granted. Unfortunately, one million acres of forest are lost to city growth each year.

Trees offer many benefits that are obscure to many, which include:

• Air Filtration- filters out particulate matter and absorbs harmful gases
• Purifies Water- improves water quality by slowing and filtering rain water
• Cost Reduction- provides shade and shelter, reducing yearly heating and cooling costs by 2.1 billion dollars
• Climate Control- obtained by moderating the effects of sun, wind, and rain
• Increase Property Value- well-cared landscape properties are 5-20% more valuable than non-landscaped estates
• Protection- from downward fall of rain, sleet, and hail, as well as reducing storm run-off, and the possibility of flooding
• Glare and Reflection Control
• Wind Break, Deflection, and Filtration
• Sound Barrier

"Since trees are a growing asset to any property, maintenance of the trees is crucial for long-term health, safety, and aesthetic value," says Tim Gamma, President of Gamma's Trees Service, and an ISA Certified Arborist. Many people do not realize that trees have a dollar value of their own. Competent tree appraisers can determine the dollar value of your trees and plants by evaluating the size, type (classification), condition, and location of the tree. With a professional evaluation, you may be able to recapture your loss if they are damaged or destroyed through an insurance claim or as a deduction from your federal income tax.

However, the best way to prepare for an unfortunate, unexpected loss is to take precautionary measures. Gamma warns, "Even though trees provide many values, hazardous trees can cause significant damage to people's homes if the conditions exist." Taking the following simple preventive steps that can improve the value of your trees, and might prevent financial loss in the future.

• Plan your landscape for both beauty and functional value.
• Protect and preserve to maintain worth.
• Take pictures of trees and other landscape plants while they are healthy.
• Check your insurance.
• Keep accurate records of your landscape and real estate appraisals.
• Consult your local ISA Certified Arborist at every stage in the life of your landscape to prevent unnecessary financial loss when casualty strikes.

Trees are alive, like us, and require an investment and continuous maintenance. Take the above preventative measures to protect your trees. The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is a nonprofit organization supporting tree care research around the world. Headquartered in Champaign, Ill., ISA is dedicated to the care and preservation of shade and ornamental trees. For more information, contact a local ISA Certified Arborist or visit www.treesaregood.com.