− | Mature stands of deciduous [[trees]] can intercept 10 - 20% of annual precipitation falling on them, and a stand of evergreens can intercept 15 - 40% (Cappiella, 2005). Depending on understory vegetation, soils and topography, tree clusters may only produce surface runoff for major flood event storms. Preserving mature trees will provide immediate benefits in new developments, whereas newly planted trees will take 10 years or more to provide equivalent benefits.Tree clusters can be incorporated into development in many ways, including parking lot interiors or perimeters, private lawns, common open space areas, road buffers, and median strips. Any areas of reforestation or new urban tree plantings need an uncompacted soil volume that allows the root systems to get air and water. An uncompacted soil volume of 15 to 28 cubic metres is recommended to achieve a healthy mature tree with a long lifespan (Casey Trees, 2008). | + | Mature stands of deciduous [[trees]] can intercept 10 - 20% of annual precipitation falling on them, and a stand of evergreens can intercept 15 - 40%.<ref>Cappiella, K., T. Schueler, and Wright, T. 2005. Urban Watershed Forestry Manual. Part 1: Methods for Increasing Forest Cover in a Watershed. Center for Watershed Protection. Ellicott City, MD.</ref> Depending on understory vegetation, soils and topography, tree clusters may only produce surface runoff for major flood event storms. Preserving mature trees will provide immediate benefits in new developments, whereas newly planted trees will take 10 years or more to provide equivalent benefits.Tree clusters can be incorporated into development in many ways, including parking lot interiors or perimeters, private lawns, common open space areas, road buffers, and median strips. Any areas of reforestation or new urban tree plantings need an uncompacted soil volume that allows the root systems to get air and water. An uncompacted soil volume of 15 to 28 cubic metres is recommended to achieve a healthy mature tree with a long lifespan.<ref>Casey Trees. 2008. Tree Space Design: Growing the Tree Out of the Box. |