'Tree-bate' program aims to combat urban heat island effect in east Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — A new program aims to combat the urban heat island effect in parts of Las Vegas where it is most pronounced.

The urban heat island effect occurs when pockets of land retain heat due to development. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, buildings, roads and other infrastructure absorb and reflect the sun’s heat more than natural landscapes. That’s why urban areas can become islands of higher temperatures.

To address this issue, the City of Las Vegas just accepted a $50,000 grant from One Tree Planted to implement a “tree-bate program.” The program involves selling 250 discounted and water-efficient trees from the city nursery to east Las Vegas residents and planting them in their yards.

This is part of the city’s overall goal of planting 60,000 trees on public and private property by 2050.

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