Just as canaries were used in coal mines to warn of imminent danger, these “Canary Trees” are being damaged by leaks from underground gas pipes and they warn us of danger to our health and our climate.
What is the Problem with gas and trees?
- “Canary Tree” signs mark some of the 124 trees in Acton where a tree has been damaged by underground “natural” gas pipes actively leaking methane. Methane gas suffocates tree roots.
- Methane gas is also a potent contributor to climate change and to human illness. On the
other hand, our street trees add beauty, cleanse the air, and moderate temperatures! - National Grid is responsible for these leaks, yet they have no mandate or incentive to fix
them unless there is a risk of explosion. Nor does National Grid acknowledge
responsibility for tree die-back. - And you are paying for the leaked gas. National Grid is permitted by law to charge you
for the losses in its system.
Resources
- Activites:
- Gas leaks located near your home (National Grid Reports compiled by HEET)
- 2017 Acton Gas Leaks Survey (including affected tree locations)
- Gas Leaks and Trees information from Mothers Out Front: Fact Sheet
- Article: Dead and dying trees have more methane in their soil. Recent study by B.U. about street trees, gas leaks, and human health in Chelsea, MA – HERE
- Article about trees and Nathan Phillips, a plant physiologist at Boston University, who has done extensive research on gas leaks and their impact on trees.
- Silver Unicorn Bookstore website has a great Tree booklist. Scroll down to the second list.