Trees growing in and around a city provide many benefits. Trees provide a natural beauty unable to be achieved any other way. The same trees provide a home for small animals. In some instances, trees can provide a blanket of cooler air. Depending on the age of the trees, some cities may be able to lower the carbon dioxide levels surrounding them.
I have provided links listing the names of native trees in Southern Michigan and discussion of ways to improve the longevity of native trees.
Native Plants: A list of native trees, shrubs, vines, perennials, ferns, and grass in the region of Ann Arbor.
Tree's
Longevity: This article describes how native trees and provenance
lead to increased
longevity.
Structural
Soil: Cornell University's approach of preparing soil underneath
pavement that
improves street tree growth.
Recipe:
Cornell University's recommendation of soil profile for growing trees.
Invasive
Trees: A list of invasive trees identified in the Ann Arbor region.