Betcha didn't know that urban sprawl could have a positive envioronmental impact - at least in areas like North Texas that farmers ruined 100 years ago.

How Dallas has turned a new leaf

"While everybody complains of urban sprawl and its conflict with the urban forest, we've actually got more of an urban forest because of our sprawl," said Mike Bradshaw, executive director of the Texas Trees Foundation in Dallas.

The progression was noticeable to Steve Parker, program manager of flood plain management and engineering for the city of Dallas. Mr. Parker reviews aerial photos of the city as part of studying the environmental impact of certain development permits. The early pictures, some going back 70 years, show mainly cotton fields, he said.

"And then as subdivisions are platted, you'll see ... houses and streets. As decades pass, you'll see the area just blossom with trees," he said.....

...Studies have shown that along with standing pretty in the front yard, trees cut the cost of energy bills, help clean the air, increase property values, relieve stress, attract wildlife and stabilize neighborhoods.

Look at that - I am part of the solution!