The Great Lakes account for approximately 94% of North America’s fresh water[1] and is the largest fresh water system in the world. The quality of this resource affects the daily lives of residents who live, work and play within the Great Lakes region. The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) focuses on improving, protecting and restoring the integrity of this vital natural resource, in part, through grant-funded projects.
In 2018, ReLeaf Michigan, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR), the Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds, an agency of the Grand Valley Metro Council, and the Davey Resource Group, Inc. received a USDA Forest Service GLRI grant. |
Great Lakes map: Databasin.com |
Trees improve a community’s air quality by capturing fine pollutants and particulate matter on the surfaces of their leaves. Recent studies have shown a strong correlation between total tree canopy and reduced rates of pulmonary and cardiovascular disease.
Every year, the urban forests of these four communities collectively removes over 100 tons of pollutants from the air. These include: 2,613 pounds of carbon monoxide (CO), 21,580 pounds of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), 182,720 pounds of ozone (O3), 5,424 pounds of sulfur dioxide (SO2), and 20,600 pounds of dusts, soot, and other particulate matter. This equates to $45,370 in value annually. |