Why Casey Trees ?

Casey Trees was created in 2001 following a generous donation by philanthropist Betty Brown Casey to establish an organization that would work to restore the tree cover of the District of Columbia.  Satellite images published in 1999 showing the dramatic loss of trees in the District since the 1970s moved Mrs. Casey to action.

The causes of so much tree loss include budget shortfalls and neglect, tree-unfriendly design and development practices, ineffective tree protection during construction, and physical damage and diseases such as Dutch elm disease.

The benefits of trees to the District of Columbia are substantial. 

More than 1 million tourists visit each year for the Cherry Blossom Festival, pumping millions of dollars into our economy.  The beauty of Washington’s streets and parks enhance the city’s reputation.

Trees improve our health, the environment, and our quality of life.  They absorb storm water runoff, reducing the flow of pollutants into our rivers and streams. They filter harmful air pollutants (which now contribute to a childhood asthma rate that is among the highest in the nation).  Trees cool our city in the summer.  They increase property values.  And research has demonstrated that tree-lined neighborhoods have lower crime rates and stronger communities.

Trees aren’t the answer to all problems, but they’re a great place to start in resolving many of them.

Analysis of low-resolution satellite imagery conducted by American Forests in 1999 showed a dramatic decline in overall tree canopy in the District from 1974 to 1997.

A RICH, GREEN LEGACY 

The District of Columbia has had a long and rich relationship with its trees. The 1791 L’Enfant Plan specified grand tree-lined avenues. In the 1870’s the planting of 60,000 street trees was an integral part of a massive public works program that, within 20 years, earned the District an international reputation as the “City of Trees.”         

One hundred years later the trees of Washington were suffering and concerned citizens began to take action to regreen the city and in 2001, Casey Trees was established.

For more information, contact us at 202.833.4010 or friends@caseytrees.org