Sustainability and Benefits

Ponderosa Pine is Spokane County’s Primary Native Tree and thrives in our environment

As a drought resistant tree, there is no supplemental watering, fertilization, or insecticides needed

Approved as the City of Spokane street tree, it is also designed for storm pond and swale planting which helps to improve our water quality

In addition to fewer pests, the Ponderosa Pine provides food and habitat for new wildlife

The root systems of Ponderosa Pine stabilize soil thereby protecting our rivers and streams

Profitability

Ponderosa Pine reduce long term landscape maintenance, increasing long term project profitability when compared to non-native tree species

Recent surveys show that 9 of 10 real estate appraisers believe trees boost sales and add value. Large trees = 3% to 15% increase to home value

Commercial areas with trees have higher occupancy and rental/lease rates

Research shows a 10 year increase in asphalt pavement life when shaded

Youth Education

Storm water absorption of Ponderosa Pine alone in a study of public trees saves the City of Spokane $210,149 per year in mitigation through rain interception and storage.

Increased consumer patronage and spending. People travel farther for shopping areas with a tree canopy.

Adjacent trees provide a reduction in building heating and cooling cost

Community

Ponderosa Pine contribute to the unique look of Spokane County.

Incorporating existing trees into site plans provides a feeling of establishment.

Many of Spokane County’s most popular residential areas retained Ponderosa Pine. Retaining and planting Ponderosa Pine in development projects ties the project to the area’s unique look and local feel.

Municipal Guidelines

City of Spokane:

SMC Title 17C Land Use Standards: Chapter 17C.200 Landscaping and Screening

SMC Title 12 Chapter 12.02 Article V Section 12.02.900 Urban Forestry Program

SMC Title 17B Comprehensive Plan and Sub-area Plans, but see the on-line Comprehensive Plan and land use map here

City of Spokane Valley

City of Liberty Lake

Spokane County

Additional Links

Evergreen Planting Detail

See an example of an evergreen tree planting detail here.

Guidelines

American Standard for Nursery Stock

American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)

Washington State Chapter of the ASLA

State of Washington Department of Licensing