DNR to inventory the state's urban trees - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

MADISON (WKOW) -- The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources may be dropping by your doorstep in the next few months. Crews are working on a survey to determine the value of the state's urban trees.

The DNR will continue a statewide inventory of community forests that first began in 2002. Researchers will ask residents permission to measure the trees on their lot.

The information gathered will help businesses and property owners determine what trees to grow and plant, what care is needed to protect trees, and what pests may threaten them.

Wisconsin's first inventory determined there were more than 26.9 million trees in the state's communities, valued at $10.9 billion. The survey also showed the value urban trees have in removing air pollutants and storing carbon. Urban trees reduce heating and cooling costs to homeowners by $24.3 million annually.

The effort is funded through a grant from the Forest Service.

Click here for more information on the survey, and what areas it will cover.