§ 53-0101. Legislative purpose.

There is a direct relationship between the planting of trees, shrubs
and associated vegetation in sufficient number in populated areas and
the health, safety, and welfare of communities. Trees and such
vegetation abate noise, provide welcome shade to people, preserve the
balance of oxygen in the air by removing carbon dioxide and fostering
air quality, and add color and verdure to human construction. They also
stabilize the soil and control water pollution by preventing soil
erosion and flooding, yield advantageous microclimatic effects, and
provide a natural habitat for wildlife. The destructive and
indiscriminate removal of trees and related vegetation causes increased
municipal costs for proper drainage control, impairs the benefits of
occupancy of existing residential properties and impairs the stability
and value of both improved and unimproved real property in the area of
destruction, and adversely affects the health, safety, and general
welfare of the inhabitants of the state. In the interests of a greener
and more livable state, it is determined by the legislature that an
affirmative program to encourage the conservation and planting of trees,
shrubs and other vegetation is necessary in the public interest in order
that coming generations will continue to enjoy and benefit by our care
in a green New York.