This first map shows the percentage of preserved trees in each of the five neighborhoods covered under this projects’ scope followed with a table detailing the associated savings in annual energy cost. This program, with continued funding, can continue to provide a substantial energy savings of 15,300.00 annually, improve the image and aesthetics of our homes and move Marin County closer to sustainability.
The actual estimates comprising this table are made from unground-truthed aerial data and average diameter basal height measurements. These totals could shift up or down and a more in-depth survey is necessary to provide a more accurate numbers; thus, the data is for generalization use only. Furthermore, a comprehensive ground survey can provide a secondary benefit of establishing more sites for planting and replanting or beneficial flora and site analysis of invasive and undesirable species. This opportunity could further increase both the values or energy savings, green space, tree health quality, carbon storage and allow for a more efficient use of funding by providing specific sites and GPS data to planting and removal crews.
This program can also provide generalized data on carbon storage and sequestration, both key stats in sustainability. These stats provide baseline data on how green space preservation and continued monitoring can reduce Marin County’s carbon footprint. Once a more substantial survey is completed a higher quality of data can be used to provide specific numbers for both of these figures and a plan can be made to identify sites for trees that process higher levels of carbon emissions. This will improve air quality, health for residents, decrease street noise all while improving energy savings and carbon levels. With continued funding this program will be integral in the process of locating areas that would benefit economically and environmentally from planting more trees; providing a better quality of life for all residents of Marin County.
