Urban Forestry in Union County

Overview

Union County has had an urban forester for more than 15 years through a cost-share program between the County and its towns and cities.

The urban forester:

• Reviews new developments to preserve trees during construction
• Oversees replanting after development
• Recommends updates to development ordinances for better tree canopy and landscaping outcomes
• Leads the analysis of urban tree canopy data

They also serve under the County Extension Department, providing education and outreach for:

• Homeowners
• Homeowners Associations (HOAs)
• Schools
• Youth interested in environmental careers

Visit the Urban Forestry Information Website for topics on tree health, pests, and other educational resources.

Urban Tree Canopy Data

In 2022, Union County acquired GIS data on the urban tree canopy. A GIS Story Map summarizes:

• Land cover statistics
• Tree canopy trends
• Environmental insights

This information has been shared with local municipalities to assist with land-use and development planning.

Union County Development Standards

Union County often requires that trees and landscaping be included in development projects.

Common Planting Issues

Trees are often rejected at inspection for the following reasons:

• Planted too deep
• Excessive burlap or wire basket left on roots

Resources

Explore standards and guides for proper planting:

• Tree Planting Examples
• Union County Species List
• Root Correction – Balled and Burlapped Trees
• Root Correction – Container Grown Trees
• Standard – Shrub Planting
• Standard – Tree Planting

Tree Benefits and Best Practices

Real Estate and Tree Health

When selling or buying a home:

• Tree health is often overlooked in inspections
• Diseased or dead trees can be expensive to remove
• Example: pine beetle infestations may not be visible without professional help

Union County recommends hiring an ISA Certified Arborist to inspect trees. If construction is planned, contact the Urban Forester to minimize tree damage.

Environmental Benefits of Trees

Clean Air and Oxygen Production

Trees remove pollutants like:

• Ozone (O₃)
• Carbon Monoxide (CO)
• Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂)
• Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂)

Citation: Nowak, D.J., et al. (2006)

Noise Pollution Reduction

Trees can reduce noise pollution by 5–10 dB or more.
Citation: Ow, L.F. & Ghosh, S. (2017)

Increase in Property Value

• Trees can raise home values by 10–15%
• Homes with trees tend to sell faster

Citations: Wolf (2008); Donovan & Butry (2010)

Soil Erosion Prevention

• Tree roots stabilize soil
• Leaves reduce wind and rain impact
• Trees also slow stormwater runoff, reducing localized flooding

Temperature Regulation

• Tree shade helps reduce heat island effect
• Urban areas without trees may be up to 12°F hotter
• Trees also reduce winter heating costs by acting as windbreaks

Citation: Edmondson, J., et al. (2016)

Carbon Sequestration

Trees are carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide (CO₂)—a major greenhouse gas.

Tree Removal on County Property

If a tree needs removal on County-owned property:

• The Urban Forester, who works with Cooperative Extension, may inspect the tree to determine if it’s hazardous
• Call 704-283-3510 for more information

For other properties, please contact a professional tree removal service.