Location: NE Couch and 39

Stormwater facility: trees

Adding trees to landscaping is easy, attractive, and has many stormwater benefits. A single mature tree with a 30 foot crown can intercept over 700 gallons of rainfall annually. Evergreen trees capture more rain in winter months than deciduous trees.

Benefits

Trees capture and hold rainfall in leaves and branches. They slow runoff flow and can decrease stormwater volume by 35% or more for small storms. Trees improve water quality by filtering rainwater and holding soils in place, which is especially important along stream banks. Their shade reduces pavement heat, which in turn lowers runoff temperature. Tree wells can provide additional benefits by accepting runoff from sidewalks or other paved areas.

Learn more:

• Trees in the City
• Portland Urban Forestry 
• Friends of Trees