Environmental and Human Benefits

The Mutual Benefits of Environmental Care

• Our Model Woodland (OMW) helps fight the warming of our earth. Through their leaves the trees, shrubs, and other plants absorb carbon and release oxygen. The carbon is sequestered in all parts of the plants including the roots. As fallen leaves and dead wood decompose, the soil retains the carbon.
• Trees and other plants also contribute to clean air and water. Leaves purify the air by absorbing airborne pollutants. Unlike turfgrass, the thick vegetation reduces the groundwater runoff and helps filter out pollutants before it reaches the local streams. Of course, no pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers are used here in OMW.
• Trees and other vegetation offer shade and lower the temperature of the air.
• The project contributes to the functioning of life on our planet. Our own survival requires the functioning of the earth’s ecosystems and web of life for pollination, plant reproduction, decomposition, cycling of nutrients, and control of pathogens.
• For humans, time spent in the natural world contributes to health and wellbeing. According to scientific research, nature reduces stress and anxiety, improves cognition, and enhances creativity.