This summer, we will evaluate and record every boulevard tree in the city of Aberdeen. Street tree inventories are done in communities throughout the world to help better manage urban forests. Although the term urban forest might sound like an oxymoron, trees play an extremely important role within a community. It's widely known that trees provide precious oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, but for those who live and work within an urban forest they provide even greater benefits. Studies from the Center of Urban Forest Research show that each urban tree returns an average of $65 in energy savings, cleaner air, better managed storm water, extended life of streets (shaded streets require resurfacing less often) and higher property values. Neighborhoods with well-shaded streets can be up to 10 deegrees cooler than neighborhoods without street trees. Three well-placed trees around a home can lower air conditioning bills by up to 30 percent. A street tree inventory is a powerful management tool because it provides an overview of the ages, types and condition of boulevard trees. It's also an excellent tool for budget planning and setting priorities for pruning and removal work. Aberdeen's inventory will begin in June, and will be coordinated with South Dakota State University Extension, area Master Gardeners and area volunteers interested in assisting with data collection. A meeting will be held at the Eagles Nest on June 5 at 7 p.m. for those interested in learning more about this project. Aaron Kiesz is the city forester in the Aberdeen Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department. His column, Tree Talk, appears occasionally in the Dakota Living section.