Park Related Challenges. Loss of Trees 

• FACT: Canopy in the neighborhood  dropped 35 % between 2011-2021 to an all time low under 10% overall. 
• FACT: in 2023 and 2024 the Park had major losses due to disease and drought and storms; 12 of the 14 Loblolly Pines in the park died due to beetles and drought, and 36 additional trees from the weather in 2024. (48 Trees) 
• FACT: These  48 trees  included the five  best  providers of shade near the tennis courts and playground. 
• FACT:  The  big Southern Catalpa trees near the bridge (East) includes the #5 ranked tree listed on the prestigious Tree Index.  Those big trees are healthy at  53 years but only live 60-70 years. The clock is ticking on the next shade area.
• In 2025 an additional 5 trees including the old Cottonwood dangling over the path have been removed.  The trees in the park have received a lot of attention and new mulch rings thanks to our event April 19. 

Environmental Benefits:

• Clean Air: Trees absorb pollutants and release oxygen, improving air quality. 
• Water Filtration: Trees help filter stormwater runoff, preventing pollutants from entering waterways. 
• Erosion Control: Tree roots help stabilize soil, preventing erosion and landslides. 
• Wildlife Habitat: Trees provide food, shelter, and nesting sites for a wide variety of animals. 
• Carbon Sequestration: Trees absorb and store carbon dioxide, helping to combat climate change. 

Social and Economic Benefits:

• Reduced Stress: Studies show that spending time in nature can reduce stress levels and improve mental well-being. 
• Increased Property Values: Trees can enhance curb appeal and increase the value of properties. 
• Energy Savings: Trees can provide shade, reducing the need for air conditioning and saving energy. 
• Community Building: Trees can create more pleasant and inviting public spaces, fostering social interaction and community development. 
• Economic Opportunities: The forestry industry provides jobs and supports local economies. 

Other Notable Benefits & New Research

• Cooling Effect: Trees can lower urban temperatures, reducing the heat island effect. 
• Noise Reduction: Trees can help absorb noise, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment. 
• Improved Aesthetics: Trees add beauty and character to landscapes, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of a place
• Listen to the Recent Research out of Kentucky by a UTMB trained expert on Keep America Beautiful's Podcast   [here]

Trees are generously donated by Trees for Houston and local tree farms.
Homeowners along Scotland Street receive priority for tree species selection and adoption.

• We can work with you to approve and permit a specific tree species you'd like to donate.
   
• All trees must be on the approved species list at HPARD and Trees for Houston.
   
• If all trees aren't adopted, we can pay a tree agency to plant and water trees for approximately $222 per tree (2 years of care).
   

✅ We welcome a combination of tree adoptions and agency care!

✅ Businesses adjacent to the park — like the Consulate of India — are encouraged to adopt trees too!

• Plant Day:
  🗓️ Saturday, November 8, 2025
  🕘 9:00 AM
  📍 Cleveland Park
   
• Commitment:
  🌳 2-year adoption and care commitment required.
   
• The program will be administered by Friends of Cleveland Park, a nonprofit advocacy group.
   

• Want to donate a specific tree species in memory of a loved one?
  ➡️ Contact Us to arrange a Memorial Tree.
   
• Only one memorial brick will be allowed per tree.
  (Visit the Depelchin corner of the park to see an example.)
   

• Donate $222 to cover two years of care for one tree.
   
• Donate $111 to support one year of care.
   
• Or donate any amount — every gift helps us plant and nurture more trees!
   

👉 Click Here to Donate

Together, we are building a stronger, greener Cleveland Park for generations to come! Thank you for your support! 🌳✨

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