Forestry Technologies

FORESTRY AN OVERVIEW

IMPORTANCE OF TREES

A great emphasis is placed on trees in this Web module. This emphasis on trees reflects their ecological, biological, and cultural importance. Also, trees are critical to the classification of forests. Trees represent some of the oldest living organisms on the planet. For example, bristlecone pines, sequoias, and cypress are all long-lived species of trees. Trees were instrumental in the development and support of civilizations. They form important links in the earth's geological, chemical, and hydrological cycles by:

  • Taking in CO2 and releasing oxygen;
  • Releasing carbon and mineral elements such as nitrogen and phosphorus (important in plant growth) as they decay;
  • Absorbing moisture for growth and releasing it as vapor through transpiration;
  • Preventing erosion by reducing the force of rainfall at the soil surface and by intercepting and absorbing water, rather than allowing it to run off directly;
  • Harboring a diversity of wildlife;
  • Acting as windbreaks;
  • Providing us with shade and beauty on a largely agricultural and urban landscape.

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