Staying active outside reduces stress and provides a dose of vitamin D. Trees with shade below help us stay cool, relax and enjoy time outside.

Trees are nature's air conditioner. Trees that shade patios, sidewalks and driveways cool the concrete, the entire yard and the neighborhood. Scientists have found that trees can lower air temperatures 10 lifesaving degrees in city neighborhoods. The Centers for Disease Control singles out heat exposure as the single largest weather-related cause of death in the US.

Large shade trees—bur and other oaks, sycamores, tuliptrees, London planetree and birches provide comfort shade even on the hottest summer days. A tree's leaves and branches only allow about 10-30 percent of solar heat to reach the area under the tree. The rest of the solar energy is absorbed through the tree's leaves for photosynthesis — or reflected back into the atmosphere.

Many tree species that cast shade can also provide spring flowers, and bright fall colors. It's best to choose a species that will thrive in your local environment. Planting trees that are native to your area have a much better chance of reaching their full potential and help create a productive ecosystem.

Learn more about how to select trees for your yard on the DNR's Selecting, Planting & Maintaining Trees webpage.

Make new memories this summer!

Make plans this summer to explore nature, get some fresh air, and make new memories. From forests, state and local parks, and wildlife areas, there are so many great places in Iowa to spend time in nature by yourself or with family and friends.

Try one or more of these simple activities to start your outdoor adventure, whether it’s your first time or it has been a while.

  • Hike a Local Trail - Local and state parks have easy to navigate trails that provide quick access to scenic areas close by or in your own neighborhood. Explore Iowa DNR's web-based application that identifies trails maintained in Iowa state parks.
  • Camp in a Tent - Sitting around the campfire, roasting marshmallows and sleeping under the stars is an experience you will always remember. Buy your firewood from where you will burn it instead of bringing it from home to help stop the spread of invasive insects like emerald ash borer that live in firewood.
  • Cook on a Campfire - Meals around the campfire are often the most cherished memories. Nothing quite compares with the sound of crackling wood and the aroma of dinner in the works. Check out Iowa DNR’s 4 Dutch Oven Recipes Your Taste Buds Want You to Try
  • Forage for Edibles - Iowa has a wide variety of edible treasures to pick and eat. Take notice of what’s growing in your backyard or the parks near you. Choose one or two wild edibles you’d like to search for.  Keep a small bag or basket with you so you are prepared to take that special find home. Get tips to collect wild berries, 6 tips for picking wild raspberries and strawberries.