Forest Service Study: Trees Deter Crime

Along with energy conservation and storm-water reduction, scientists may soon be adding crime-fighting to the list of benefits that urban trees provide, according to a study outlined Monday. Researchers with the U.S. Forest Service's Pacific Northwest and Southern Research Stations have published a new study that suggests that certain types of city trees may help lower property and violent crime rates. Their study — posted online in advance of its appearance in a forthcoming printed issue of the journal Environment and Behavior — is the first to examine the effects of trees and other factors on crime occurrence in Portland. “We wanted to find out whether trees, which provide a range of other benefits, could improve quality of life in Portland by reducing crime, and it was exciting to see that they did,” said Geoffrey Donovan, research forester with the PNW Research Station, who led the study. “Although a burglar alarm may deter criminals, it won’t provide shade on a hot summer day, and it certainly isn’t as nice to look at as a tree,” Donovan said...more

“Although a burglar alarm may deter criminals, it won’t provide shade on a hot summer day, and it certainly isn’t as nice to look at as a tree,”

My, what an insightful comment. Who knew that burglar alarms didn't provide shade? I guess you could, though, sit in the shade of the tree while you tried to describe to the cops what the fellers looked like who just robbed you in your home.

Burglar alarm lovers should be up in arms about these denigrating comments on the alarms' looks. Not as pretty as a tree? As I glance over at mine, leaning in the corner, I just love the looks of the barrels, and the stock, and the trigger...prettier than any damn tree.

It does make you wonder though: At a time when the Forest Service claims they don't have enough dinero for law enforcement, to complete the environment analysis of many projects, etc., why are they spending money studying urban trees? Oh, I see, those urban folks cast a lot of votes, don't they.

Smokey's done gone political. The urban brand is on the land.