Why Trees are Essential to a Healthy Watershed
We all live in a watershed—a land area where all rain and stormwater drain to a common body of water such as a creek, river, or lake. The Blue River Watershed is one of Kansas City’s most vital natural systems. It spans over 270 square miles, flowing through a mix of urban, suburban, and natural areas before draining into the Missouri River—and eventually reaching the Gulf of Mexico.
In urban parts of the Blue River Watershed, heavy rain often runs off rooftops, streets, and parking lots, picking up pollutants along the way and overwhelming stormwater systems. Whatever is on the ground—trash, oil, pet waste—can end up in our waterways. This is why it’s so important to pick up after pets, avoid littering, and plant water-loving vegetation, especially trees.
Planting trees can be a simple and effective way to help manage stormwater.
Volunteers plant new trees in the Dunbar Neighborhood of Kansas City, Missouri. Dunbar is located within the Blue River Watershed.
Nature’s Stormwater Managers
Trees are powerful, natural tools for managing stormwater. They intercept rainfall in their canopies, slowing it down before it reaches the ground. A single mature tree can capture and store more than 100 gallons of water. Their roots absorb rainwater and reduce runoff, while stabilizing soil to prevent erosion.
Trees also act as living filters. They help remove harmful substances like motor oil, fertilizer, road salt, and heavy metals from stormwater before it reaches our streams. Planting more trees throughout the watershed is a simple, effective way to protect and restore our environment.
Kansas City’s Watershed Challenges
Kansas City has a high percentage of impervious surfaces—such as streets, sidewalks, and parking lots—which prevent water from soaking into the ground and increase the risk of flooding. Trees planted in medians, parks, and neighborhoods throughout the Blue River Watershed help manage runoff, reduce flood risk, and improve water quality. Every tree planted makes a difference.
Our Commitment
Over the next three years, our Heartland Tree Alliance team is committed to planting and maintaining 1,700 trees within the Blue River Watershed. In Spring 2025 alone, we’ve already planted about 500 trees including 200 along Emanuel Cleaver II Boulevard. These trees are more than just greenery, they’re a lasting investment in cleaner water, healthier neighborhoods, and a stronger Kansas City.
Photo credit: Matthew Rogers | Burns & McDonnell
