Urban forest systems slow stormwater flow and filter pollutants, reducing the need for water treatment facilities.

Research

Water Quality

Pollution Reduction

Filtering Fertilizers and Pet Waste
  • Runoff commonly contains pollutants such as excess nitrogen and phosphorous that collect from lawn fertilizers and pet waste. Trees have been shown to filter up to 80% of phosphorus out of stormwater, preventing it from reaching waterways.
Riparian Buffers

Related Resources