Cool Trees: Reducing Long-Term Energy Costs by Planting Trees

About the Program

Category: County Resiliency (Best in Category)

Year: 2014

In an effort to reduce energy costs for public facilities, the Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection and Sustainability (EPS) strategically planted nearly 1,000 large-caliper shade trees around 75 County buildings through its “Cool Trees” Program. The expansion of the County’s urban tree canopy promised significant long-term environmental, monetary, and aesthetic benefits. Furthermore, this Program established a process of inter-agency collaboration for tree planting and maintenance, providing a strong foundation for future planting projects. EPS used Geographic Information Systems (GIS) data to identify public facilities with opportunities for planting trees within sixty feet of the east, west, and south-facing facades. These walls, prominently exposed to sun in spring and summer, radiate heat to warrant energy-driven cooling, which strategically positioned shade trees can significantly reduce. Sites chosen to receive trees included 46 Baltimore County Public Schools, 8 police precincts and Police Athletic League centers, 7 community centers, 5 senior centers, 3 local community college campuses, 2 libraries, 2 fire stations, and 1 health center. Cool Trees was funded by a $7.4 million grant awarded by the Department of Energy in June 2009. The grant provided $500,000 for program development, contractual planting, tree purchases, and a two-year replacement warranty and maintenance period.