In the ongoing quest to quantify the economic value of ecosystem services, a big boost comes out of Philadelphia, PA, this week. A new report finds the city's parks are worth nearly $1.9 billion annually in services, income and taxes. The Philadelphia Parks Alliance report quantifies parks' value in terms of pollution control, property values, health and tourism.

The urban forest is the tree canopy cover above every neighborhood, town, and city in America. Trees of all shapes and sizes make up the “green infrastructure” of our communities – lining streets, shading yards and buildings, and defining parks. Collectively this urban forest resource supports many diverse animals, plants, and organisms. The urban forest provides environmental, social and economic solutions to more than 80% of the population of the United States.

Forested landscapes play a vital role in providing water, wood, recreation, and a legacy for future generations. Many forests near urban areas are being developed into communities, creating an interface area where wildland fires greatly threaten homes and resources. The need to eliminate unwanted, human caused fires in these areas is extremely urgent. Protecting our precious private, state, and even Federal woodlands, requires the knowledge and participation of the forestland owners, community residents, policy makers, and fire suppression agencies working together in a harmonious fire education effort.

Previous Olympic Games in Lilliehammer, Norway and Atlanta, Georgia have revealed the interest worldwide in environmental issues and the related opportunities for environmental education among Olympic host communities and event attendees.