TAYLORSVILLE, Utah (KUTV) — Utah’s oldest tree and landscape company says a simple change in how people prune trees and shrubs could cut outdoor water use in half.
Behunin Tree has had deep roots across the Wasatch Front for more than 80 years, with the Behunin family tracing its roots in tree care back more than 150 years.
ARC Salt Lake spoke with owner Ben Behunin about a pruning technique designed to reduce leaf canopy, helping plants and lawns stay healthy while using significantly less water.
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Owners of Utah’s oldest tree and landscape company, Behunin Tree, say a simple change in how people prune trees and shrubs could cut outdoor water use in half. (KUTV)
Behunin said drought, strong winds and the economy have all impacted the industry, while a shortage of skilled workers continues to create challenges for tree care companies.
He’s also pushing for more horticulture education in Utah, including a proposed tree pruning program at Salt Lake Community College.
The company recently launched a nonprofit called the Plant Institute, combining decades of field data with peer-reviewed research to study water conservation and plant health.
Behunin said Riverton city leaders have already approached him about testing the water-saving pruning techniques in public spaces, with hopes other cities could eventually follow suit.
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