Dear Editor:
Looking for a long, healthy, and vibrant life? New evidence from a long-term Swiss study has demonstrated that residents of communities with abundant, well-arranged trees live longer than areas without the benefit of trees. Aggregated, connected tree clusters seem to provide greater health benefits than isolated trees scattered here and there within neighborhoods. Aren’t we the lucky ones to live in an area of the country enriched with extensive canopies of mature urban trees? As an example, the 100 acres of Ponderosa Pines and open meadows across from City Market and east of the medical center provide just the environment the Swiss study defined as optimum for the health of people in the community. Not only does it benefit humans, it secures the habitat of wildlife too.
In the example given, the trees have prospered such that their age is recorded at 200 years or more. Over 100 elk make the forest their home along with numerous birds and other wildlife. It is well-known that treed environments enrich human life. There are various reasons for this: Beyond creating a serene and open atmosphere in urban areas, trees and parks also contribute to human well-being. Trees filter pollutants out of the air, provide shade, lower the ambient temperature in hot weather and encourage people to spend more time outdoors.
The advantages provided by urban forests are proven and ours to keep if we wish it. I suggest we should not relinquish it easily. The proposed Pagosa West development offers an unattractive gateway to Pagosa (another gas station, more storage facilities, car wash, acres of retail space and high-density housing.) Destruction of this forest and wildlife corridor leads to increased noise, traffic and light pollutions.
Quality of life is important. Where are the parks and recreational facilities that uptown needs? The playgrounds. What is going to happen to the wildlife and trees? How will the proposed project fit in with these objectives? Everyone in the uptown area will be impacted, whether by traffic, noise, light pollution, or disrupted views, all factors which diminish the enormous gift we enjoy of living in this natural, life-enhancing environment.
What would you trade for a longer, richer life?
Jane Weitzel
