Minneapolis Has A Surprising Amount Of Trees, Shade
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Minnesotans saw a lot of sunshine Friday. For those looking for a little shade, Minneapolis is the place to be. A new study found that 31.5 percent of the city is sitting in the shade of trees.
"You are pretty sheltered and covered and there is not a lot of busy streets. So, it helps with the privacy as well. It's really beautiful," said Hannah Barnstable of Minneapolis.
According to the study conducted by the University of Minnesota's Department of Forest Resources, nearly 50 percent of the Lynnhurst neighborhood in Minneapolis is covered by trees.
That number could grow. Minneapolis plans to plant 4,000 more trees this spring and an additional 1,500 in the fall -- compared to 3,000 planted in recent years.
Minneapolis' tree count is comparable to other major cities such as Boston and Washington.
However, the point of the study isn't to say whether the city's tree population is good or bad. It's to give planners an idea of where they can plant more trees.
Some take it as a good sign, though.
"I think it's great for the state. Everyone that comes to visit me in Minneapolis loves the greenery. It's the number one reason why they come," said Kelly Savage of Minneapolis.
The Department of Forest Resources used satellite technology to conduct the study.
The city says it will be very useful as they try to determine how widespread Emerald Ash Borer will be.
