Learn about the benefits of native tree species in your region with this calculator.

Stormwater clogs wastewater treatment systems, causing overflows that contaminate beaches and drinking water. It also washes roads, parking lots, and other surfaces of oils, sediment, chemicals and debris that end up in rivers, oceans, lakes and wetlands.

Trees can help.

A search with the Arbor Day Foundation’s National Tree Benefit Calculator shows how. Type in your zip code and get a list of tree species native to it.

Trees take a bite out of runoff by storing rainwater or intercepting it before it hits the ground which reduces erosion.

For example, a newly planted ash tree in Great Lakes Echo’s East Lansing, Mich. home will intercept 8 gallons of stormwater runoff this year, despite its small size.

It will drink up 2,301 gallons of stormwater runoff when it grows to a diameter of 20 inches.

The calculator also shows readers how individual tree species benefit property values, reduce energy use through cooling, improve air quality and reduce carbon dioxide.

Each search can be tailored based on land use type, tree species and tree age.