A new study focused on Philadelphia has found that abundant vegetation is associated with lower rates of assault, robbery and burglary. Statistically adjusting for socioeconomic factors such as poverty, Temple researchers Mary Wolfe and Jeremy Mennis, associate professor of geography and urban studies, found that greenery was still linked to significantly lower crime. Though unmanaged vegetation may encourage crime, the authors speculate, well-kept greenery may signal a well-controlled area.