...In CommunitiesMunicipal and Industrial Waste
Management of municipal and industrial effluent and biosolids is becoming increasingly challenged, as stricter regulations to improve water quality are imposed within our Nation's rivers, lakes, and ground water. The beneficial use of municipal and industrial wastes in tree plantations is one of the innovative approaches being developed. The trees use nutrients in the effluent and biosolids that would otherwise contribute to the problem of nutrient loading in the streams. In addition, the plantations enhance landscape aesthetics, and generate income from the production of wood products. Benefits and Opportunities
Economic - A direct economic benefit is obtained from the sale of wood products. Wood products can be in the form of chips, fuelwood, mulch, veneer, lumber, paneling, molding, and specialty products. This helps offset the cost of treatment, making it less expensive than most structural treatment alternatives. Aesthetic - The visual environment can be improved by providing a buffer to adjacent land uses. Also, the tree plantation can help reduce the drifting of odors to neighbors and communities. Environmental - Working trees protect water quality and safeguard clean water supplies for communities, fish, wildlife, recreation, and people. Tree plantations provide wildlife habitat for a variety of birds and animals. The tree canopy catches dust particles and air pollutants, thereby improving air quality. Trees store carbon dioxide in their wood as they grow, and can contribute greatly to reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Carbon credits, whose value will be market based, may be sold to industries and utilities. The amount of carbon dioxide stored in a tree plantation will depend on the species, growth rate, age, and management. Home | Timely Topics | Upcoming Events | About Agroforestry | About the Center | Publications and Informational Materials | Resource Links | Order Free Publications Online Now! | Site Map
Last updated 12.13.2000. |
