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Wisconsin’s Green Industry
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| Photo courtesy of National Renewable Energy Laboratory |
There’s an entire component of Wisconsin’s diverse agriculture that not only helps the landscape stay green and lush, but also creates some “green” for the state’s economy as well.
Some people call it horticulture, others call it landscaping, but it all adds up to creating beautiful surroundings and additional jobs for Wisconsin.
“Green industry” describes the production, installation, and maintenance of flowers, sod, nursery, landscape products, and Christmas Trees. The green industry contributes $2.7 billion each year to Wisconsin’s economy and employs over 43,000 workers.
The green industry is a sometimes overlooked contributor to a cleaner environment. Trees, shrubs, and turf all improve air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. According the Turf Resource Center, a 50 foot by 50 foot lawn will release enough oxygen for a family of four.
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| Photo courtesy of National Renewable Energy Laboratory |
Water conservation is another benefit of a well-maintained landscape. A healthy sodded lawn absorbs rainfall six times more effectively than a wheat field, and four time more effectively than a hay field. Turfgrass reduces pollution by purifying water passing through its root zone. Trees and other nursery products add to these effects, as they can store water and help reduce erosion through their root systems.
Landscaping can also help homeowners save energy. The front lawns of eight houses have the cooling effect of about 70 tons of air-conditioning, when the average home air conditioner has a three or four ton capacity. On a hot summer day, lawns will be 30 degrees cooler than asphalt. Air-conditioning costs can be lowered even further when trees are used to shade a home.
The green landscaping creates is not on the ground alone. A high-quality lawn adds value to one’s home. Some estimates indicate that quality landscape can add anywhere from 5 percent to 20 percent to the property value of a home.
Getting started on a landscaping project is a great investment, but it may appear a bit daunting at first. Use SavorWisconsin.com to find a professional in your area who will be able to help. You will soon be on the way to a beautiful lawn and a better environment.
Sources: International Society of Arboriculture; Wisconsin Green Industry Federation; Turf Resource Center
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