Itree Manual

Volunteer
Inventory
Training Manual
A Training
Guide For Community
Street Tree Inventories
MLL
USDA Forest Service ~ Northeast Area

WWEELLCCOOMMEE LLEETTTTEERR
NOTE TO INVENTORY ORGANIZERS: This letter may be

printed on official letterhead of the community
government and should be substituted as this page of
your community's manual.
DATE
Dear Inventory Participant:
Welcome to the (YEAR) inventory of street trees in (NAME OF

COMMUNITY). With your assistance, a complete survey of every street
tree in (NAME OF NEIGHBORHOOD OR COMMUNITY) will soon be completed.
The collected information will be analyzed to create and implement
more effective community forest management strategies. We look
forward to working with you to achieve this important goal.
Whether you are a participant or a workshop leader, we are confident

that your participation will lead you to gain valuable experience and
acquire useful skills. We hope that you will also gain a better
understanding of your critical role as a volunteer and steward of the
street trees, and an increased awareness of the importance of the
community forest and its role in the urban ecosystem of (NAME OF
COMMUNITY).
It is citizens such as you who make (NAME OF COMMUNITY) an even

better place in which to work and live. On behalf of everyone
working on this project, I thank you for your effort in helping to
make the (YEAR) Inventory of (NAME OF COMMUNITY)’s Street Trees a
success.
Sincerely,
(Name of MAYOR, PARK COMMISSIONER, TREE WARDEN, etc.)

(Title)
Volunteer Inventory Training Manual

Table of Contents
About this manual……………………………………………………………………….. 5
Module 1. TREE INVENTORIES: AN OVERVIEW……………………………. 7
1.3 PRESENTATION 1.
Why do a Community Inventory………………………………………. 7
Types of inventories………………………………………………….. 8
Street tree definitions……………………………………………….. 12
Geographic Information Systems………………………………… 16
Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)………………………………… 20
1.5 EXERCISE 1. GIS Crossword Puzzle……………………………………… 22
Module 2. TREE CHARACTERISTICS…………………………………….……… 23
2.3 PRESENTATION 2.
Size (DBH)…………………………………………………………….…. 24
Condition………………………………………………………………… 27
Maintenance need…………………………………………………….. 30
Problem trees…………………………………………………………… 34
2.5 EXERCISE 2. Matching Review Worksheet…………………………….. 44
Module 3. TREE IDENTIFICATION………………………………………………. 45
3.3 PRESENTATION 3.
Tree i.d. terminology and techniques……………………………. 45

1
Table of Contents
Module 4. MAPPING…………………………………………………………………..…. 54
4.3 PRESENTATION 4.
Mapping trees……………..……………………………………………. 54
Numbering trees………………………………………………………... 56
Recording tree locations on maps………………………………… 59
Recording tree locations on aerial photos……………………… 60
Module 5. INVENTORY DATA COLLECTION……………….………………... 62
5.3 PRESENTATION 5.
Using tree species codes……………………………………………… 62
Using the iTree Data Collection Software……………………. 66
Appendix A. Primary/Secondary Lists of 2-letter Species

Codes…. A-1
Appendix B Solutions for exercises…………………………………….… B-1
Appendix C. Visual aids: pages for overhead
transparencies….… C-1

2
Acknowledgments
Acknowledgement Page(s) Goes Here

3
4
About This Manual
The Volunteer Inventory Training Manual

is intended for use by both volunteer Intended use
participants and training workshop
leaders. It is designed to help
volunteer data collectors develop the
skills necessary to inventory trees
accurately. It includes information on
tree identification, measurement,
assessment of tree condition,
identification of maintenance needs, and
mapping tree locations along a public
roadway.
The manual is divided into five sections,

followed by appendices. Each section C o n t e n t la y o u t
covers a specific inventory topic area,
which should be completed in its
entirety. A supplemental Tree
Identification Text will be provided to
assist volunteers in determining specific
genus and species of the trees that will
be inventoried.
The manual’s format maintains generous

blank spaces on the right side of each Space for note
page, so that participants may add their taking
own notes and information during the
formal training sessions. This will
increase the value of the manual as an
individual reference source during and
after the actual inventory.
5
6
Presentation 1. TYPES OF INVENTORIES
There are a number of reasons to conduct Why do an inventory

an inventory of public trees. The data of community trees?
collected in a community tree inventory
provides essential information to
• Profile the species, size and age

composition of the community forest
• Provide information about

individual trees and groups of
trees
• Summarize and analyze condition of

individual trees and of the entire
forest
• Record information about

significant trees
• Reveal planting needs
• Monitor planting success rates
• Identify potentially hazardous

trees
• Set priorities for maintenance
• Develop maintenance schedules based

on those priorities
• Identify budget needs
• Create budget requests to municipal

government
• Establish a foundation for keeping

continuous records
• Create public reports of trees

planted, pruned and removed
• Build public support for protecting

and expanding the community forest
• Establish its dollar value
• Set benchmarks for future planning
Volunteer Inventory Training Manual 7

The decision of what type of inventory to Types of

undertake will be based upon the need inventories
identified by the community. The options
include:
• Windshield survey
• Specific problem inventory
• Sampling method
• Inventory of parks and natural areas
• Cover type survey
• Complete inventory
− Periodic
− Continuous
A windshield survey is used to collect W i n d s h i e l d s u r v ey

tree information while riding in a
vehicle. It offers the advantages of
being both quick and inexpensive.
Although it is not a feasible method for
precise data collection, it is helpful
for identifying readily visible problems
such as dead trees or hanging limbs.
Specific problem
A specific problem inventory is used to inventory
assess how many trees in the community
are affected by one or more specified
conditions. For example, a specific
problem inventory might be conducted
• To inspect all elm trees for signs of

Dutch Elm disease
• To inspect all hemlock trees in order
to find those infected with the insect
pest, Hemlock Wooly Adelgid
• To identify potentially hazardous
trees

A tree survey of a sample as small as ten Sampling method

percent can be sufficient to create
statistical summaries about species and
size composition. Results of such
samples are reasonably accurate to draw
generalized conclusions about the overall
tree population.
Two keys to accuracy are essential:
• The sample must be strictly random

• The overall tree population must be
reasonably homogeneous
For example, if the community consists of

established residential areas and others
that are newly built, entirely random
samples should be taken from each type of
area. Sample surveys are best done on
foot, since a windshield survey lessens
accuracy considerably.
An inventory of natural areas is Inventory of par ks

generally needed in order to protect and natural areas
remnants of woodlands that survive in
populated areas. Such woodlands need
active management to prevent
deterioration from overuse, abuse and
neglect.
In feature parks that are heavily used,

it may be important to collect detailed
data on individual trees, and to map the
tree locations precisely. In park
natural areas where the trees grow in
dense groups, a sampling method may be
sufficient to collect data and generalize
results without measuring individual
trees.

A cover type survey uses aerial Cover type survey

photographs to analyze the extent and
distribution of tree canopy cover.
Canopy cover is the land area covered by
crowns of trees. This information is
useful to monitor trends in the amount of
tree cover and to help quantify the
energy saving potential of existing
trees.
A complete inventory is implemented to C o m p l e t e i n v e n to r y

examine and record comprehensive data
about each tree, including
• Genus and species

• Location, usually tied to an address
• Size
• Condition
• Maintenance need
• Vacant sites
The inventory may also include

identification of
potential planting sites.
A periodic inventory should be updated on Periodic or

a 3-5 year maximum cycle. Continuous continuous
updating involves the ongoing entry of
tree work requests and completed work
histories, usually on a daily or weekly
basis. A complete, continuous inventory
is the most time-consuming and expensive
type, but also the most useful and
accurate.

OAK
PEAR
Balanced range of
GINKGO tree species
ASH
MAPLE
Information collected in a complete T re e i n v e n t o r y

inventory allows the entire tree analysis
population to be analyzed. Results may
then be summarized in reports and
visually depicted in graphs and charts.
For example, an analysis of inventory
data might reveal a genus distribution
such as the one illustrated in the pie
chart below. This graph could also be
labeled with the actual percentages of
each genus.
Species
distribution
The results of a tree inventory may also

be used to make so-called “smart maps”
that link tree genus to location and
illustrate geographic genus distribution.

Street trees are defined as trees that Definition

are located within the public right-of-
way or the layout of a public road. The
laws of the individual state generally
grant to the local municipalities the
authority for street and public shade
trees within their own geographical
areas.
The public street trees must be T r e e m a i n t e n a nc e

identified because they are the focus of
maintenance efforts by the municipality.
Street trees have to be pruned to keep
branches from interfering with vehicles
and pedestrians, and with utility wires.
Potentially hazardous trees must be
removed to protect the safety of
residents.
Under some state or local laws, public

trees may sometimes be planted set back
from the right of way on private property
to benefit all citizens. These trees
then become the maintenance
responsibility of the individual property
owner.
Inventory volunteers should follow the Identifying street

guidelines below to determine whether a trees
particular tree should be counted. The
following illustrations describe four
ways that a street tree may be located
relative to a public right-of-way. A
section view illustrates the street as
seen in cross-section. A plan view
illustrates the street as seen looking
down from directly overhead.

Tree located
1. The tree is located between the curb between curb and
and the sidewalk. sidewalk
Tree located within

2. The tree is located within the t h e s i d e w a lk
sidewalk corridor. It is usually
planted in an underground tree pit or
well.

3. On streets that do not have Tree located within

sidewalks, the tree is located feet of a
within feet of a curb curb or pavement
or pavement edge. edge
4. The tree is located on a traffic T r e e l o c at e d o n a

island or median strip. traffic island or
median strip

If the tree is not located as described What is NOT
above, it is not considered a street a street tree
tree. The following are not street
trees:
• a tree located between the sidewalk

and
a house or building
• a tree located on the front yard of

a property
Unless it is within feet of a
road without a sidewalk, where
there
is a specific state or local law
that defines a distance for an
allowable public tree
setback planting
• a tree that arches over the street

Unless it is actually planted in
one of the four types of locations
described on
the previous pages

Geographic Information Systems, often Definition of GIS
shortened to “GIS,” is a computer system
comprised of electronic hardware and
software. A GIS holds and uses data that
has been linked with specific places on
the earth’s surface.
A GIS enables the user to link an

attribute (such as a tree) to its
geographic location. Information that
describes the attribute is contained in a
table in a computer database. The
geographic location for that same
attribute is entered in a different
table.
The table with the geographic locations

of the attributes (trees) is then joined
to the table with the information (data)
collected about that attribute, to create
a system that holds both types of
information. So-called “smart maps” can
be created from this joined information.
For example, a data collector may use a A n a l y z i n g a s u ga r

spreadsheet to record the number of sugar maple population
maple trees and characteristics about
each one such as size, condition, etc.
When this information is entered into a
computerized GIS, the GIS allows the user
to analyze the information spatially.
In this example, a GIS can describe how

many and where the sugar maples are
located by
• Neighborhood
• Census tract
• Planning area
• Road type

The information analysis can be further Layers of data in a

refined to look at how many and where the GIS
sugar maples in good, fair, and poor
condition are located in each of the
above areas. This information can be
displayed either in text spreadsheets, or
on graphic maps, or both.
A geographic information system consists

of various data sets called layers. Many
communities begin building a GIS by
starting with separate layers for roads,
parcels and building footprints.
Additional layers may include underground

utilities, fire hydrants, and overhead
wires. These may be part of the initial
GIS, or added later as data.
When the tree inventory data has been Creating the tree
processed, each tree record will be in a data layer
database and will be related to its real
world location in the community. The
community will actually be able to
determine an individual tree’s latitude
and longitude on the planet’s surface.
This information will form the tree layer
in a community’s GIS. As trees are
planted and maintenance work is
performed, the database can be
continually updated to keep the
information current.
The significant advantage of a GIS is Advantage of a

that it contains all the information community tree
necessary for the various municipal layer
departments to manage both the
infrastructure and the natural systems. A
data set of trees could be linked with a
data set of overhead wires to determine
where conflicts between the two are
likely to exist.

A map with roads.
A map with roads,

buildings and water
bodies.

A map with roads,

buildings, water
bodies and trees

Personal Digital Assistant, often Definition of PDA
shortened to “PDA,” is a hand-held
computer that stores, provides access to,
and organizes information in many
formats. The major operating systems are
Windows-based (Pocket PC) and the Palm
Operating System (Palm PDA). PDA’s can
be either screen-based or keyboard based
for the user’s convenience.
The major advantages provided by PDA’s

include Personal Information Management
where one can store and retrive addresses
and phone numbers, maintain a calender,
and create to-do lists and store
important notes. A plethora of software
applications allow for storage of
databases, creation of word processing
documents, spreadsheets, and also provide
E-mail and Internet access.
“Synchronization” is a unique tool “ s y n ch r o n i z a t i o n ”

offered when using PDA’s and it allows with a desktop or
for the exchange of information with a laptop computer
desktop or laptop computer (where you can
store any and all data collected in the
field). PDA’s come with cables or docking
stations to connect them to your desktop
or notebook computer. Wireless Internet
and E-mail access is available for a fee.
Screen Display offers you a wide variety

of options – from 256 to 64,000 colors,
monochrome or gray-scale, varying screen
sizes for your preference (larger screens
offer ease of reading). Active Matrix –
which gives better display versus Passive
Matrix – which uses less battery power.
PDA power sources can be permanent

rechargeable batteries, standard alkaline
batteries, or removable rechargeable
batteries. Length of service varies with
each PDA. Recharge time may also vary
depending on the battery. You can use
the PDA while the battery is recharging.

Memory typically varies from 2MB to 64MB The amount of
or memory, but as the technology is memory effects the
rapidly advancing, so to is the amount of p e r f o r m a nc e
memory a PDA can be purchased with. capabilites
A PDA with 2MB of memory is generally
sufficient to fill address books,
maintain an active calendar, take notes,
and load useful programs. More memory
may be needed to store large files like
digital photos, databases, or large
software programs. You have the option
to expand the memory of certain PDA’s
with small storage cards that can be
inserted into the PDA.
PDA software options are broken into two Palm OS (Palm Pilot
categories depending on your type of PDA: P D A ) v e rs u s W i n d o w s
Palm OS – Palm Pilot PDA or the Windows CE (Pocket PC)
CE – Pocket PC. The differences are that
Palm OS devices work best basic contact
management, the Palm OS PDA’s are
generally smaller, cheaper, lighter, and
have vastly better battery life. The
Pocket PC units have flashier color
screens and more multimedia capabilities,
but are more expensive and have shorter
battery life.
Palm Pilot PDA Manufacturers (Palm OS –

Palm Pilot PDA ) include Palm Pilot, Sony
Clie, and Handspring Visor.
Pocket PC Manufacturers (Windows CE –

Pocket PC) include Compaq I-Paq, and HP
Jornada.
For more information you can go to the

USDA Forest Service, Northeast Center for
Urban & Community Forestry website at:
http://www.umass.edu/urbantree

.
. . . .
. .
ACROSS DOWN
1. Angular distance, measured in 1. Position in space
degrees, north or south from 2. Data, news, facts; knowledge
equator acquired
2. Global Positioning System 3. Reference to descriptive science
3. Fact or figures to be processed dealing with surface of the earth
4. Distinct data sets 4. Distance east or west on earth’s
5. Locations of features and surface, measured as an arc of the
attributes equator between the meridian
6. Connection between maps and passing through a particular place
data (usually Greenwich, England)
7. Line or thing marking a limit 5. To examine for some specific
8. Delicious purpose
9. Object rocketed into orbit 6. Set of facts connected to form a
around earth unity
7. A woody stemmed perennial plant
usually over 13’ tall and with a
single stem

Presentation 2. Tree Characteristics
The first step in inventory data Data collection

collection is to identify the tree genus items
and species. The next step is to note the
important items or characteristics about
each tree. These usually include size
(DBH), condition, planting site, and
maintenance need. This presentation will
discuss each of these last four items, in
order to help volunteers learn
definitions and techniques for tree
assessment.
In the course of the inventory, L e a r ni n g t o

volunteers will encounter trees that have identify problem
many different types of problems. trees
Sometimes the problems are insignificant.
In other cases, the visible signs may be
indications of serious underlying
problems. The experience of a
professional arborist is required to
distinguish between the two. The second
part of this presentation, titled
“Problem Trees,” is designed to teach
volunteers to recognize signs that
indicate that particular trees should be
further evaluated with consultation by a
professional arborist.
The urban forestry tree measurement D e f i n i t i o n o f DB H

standard for size is the trunk diameter,
measured at breast height. This
measurement is usually abbreviated as DBH
(all capital letters). Breast height is
defined as 4.5 feet (4.5’) above ground
level.
Data collectors and others using the DBH Locating 4.5’ on

measurement find it most convenient to human body
locate 4.5’ on their own bodies and make
a mental or tangible note of that spot.
This eliminates the repetitive step of
measuring each tree 4.5’ up from the
ground in order to find the correct spot
to measure diameter.

Participants may do this now, during a Participant

break, or at the completion of this exercise
presentation.
• Measure and mark 4.5’ up from the
floor, either
− On a wall with masking tape, or
− On a blackboard with chalk
• Stand next to the mark
• Note the height on the individual where
the marked height corresponds
A diameter tape (DBH tape) differs from a The DBH measuring

standard measuring tape in that it has t ap e
measurement numbers on both sides of the
tape, but the sides are scaled
differently.
One side
• Measures distances in feet and tenths
of a foot (NOT inches)
• May be used to measure where 4.5’ is
located on human body
Other side
• The numbers are further apart,
converted to measure tree diameter
• Is used to measure DBH
The procedure to measure DBH with a Using a diameter

diameter tape is as follows: tape to measure
• Wrap the tape around the tree at 4.5’ DBH
above ground, until zero on the tape
reaches the tape again
• Read the number where the zero meets
the tape. This is the tree diameter.
• Be sure to read the correct side of the
tape!
M e as u r i n g D B H

Another tool to measure DBH is a Biltmore Using a Biltmore

cruiser stick, similar in appearance to a stick to measure
yardstick but with four sides. One side D BH
of the stick is marked “tree diameter.”
Holding the stick at arm’s length, at
4.5’ above the ground, and against the
tree, the user aligns the left side of
the stick with the left edge of the tree
trunk. The user reads the number on the
stick’s right end that is aligned with
the right edge of the tree trunk. It is
important to use only one eye; close the
other eye, and hold the head still.
The height at which the diameter is Unusual situations

measured may have to be adjusted if an measuring DBH
odd growth or interrupting object
interferes with measuring at the 4.5’
height. A tree that has a large root
flare (below left) should be measured as
any other tree. If the root flare extends Tree with a large
as high as 4.5’, then the diameter should root flare
be measured above it. The height at which
the DBH is actually taken should then be
entered in the Comments column of the
Data Collection Worksheet (see Module 5)
or into your PDA unit.
Measuring a tree Measuring a tree

with a large root that is not round
flare
To measure a tree trunk that is not round Tree that is not

at 4.5” (above right), two diameter round
measurements will be necessary. These
should be taken at right angles along the
center of the trunk axis. The average of
the two measurements will be the DBH.

A tree that has an abnormal growth that Tree with abnormal
encompasses 4.5’ should be measured above growth
the growth (below left). If a tree has
two or more leaders, each leader should
be measured separately as shown (below
right). The height at which the DBH is
actually measured, or the number of
leaders measured, should then be entered
in the Comments column of the Data
Collection Worksheet (see Module 5) or
into your PDA unit.
Tree with two

leaders
Measuring a tree with Measuring a tree

an abnormal growth with two or more
leaders
The diameter of a tree on a slope should Tree on a slope

be measured at 4.5’ above the ground on
the uphill side (below left). A tree that
has a branch growing out of the trunk at
4.5’ (below right) should be measured
above that branch and the measured height
noted in the Comments column of the Data
Collection Worksheet or PDA unit.
4.5' Measure
Here
4.5'
Tree that branches

at 4.5’
Measuring a tree Measuring a tree with a

on a slope growth such as a
branch at 4.5’

Condition is the second characteristic Determining tree
that inventory participants will be asked condition
to record about each tree. Tree
condition should be determined as
accurately as possible, because that
description will be used to plan the
management steps for that individual
specimen.
Each tree should be assigned to one of

four categories. The condition will be
noted by marking the appropriate space on
the Data Collection Worksheet (see Module
5) or in your PDA unit.
In some cases, there may be concerns “ C o ns u l t ” c a t e g o r y

about the condition that require for trees
consultation by someone with additional requiring further
expertise. In these cases, a mark should e v a l u a ti o n
be made in the box noted “consult” on
the Data Collection Worksheet or in the
PDA unit. This will indicate that the
tree requires further evaluation by the
Tree Warden or other professional
arborist.
GOOD FAIR POOR DEAD

Every tree should be assigned a

condition, regardless of whether or not
it is also noted as requiring a
consultation. The following guidelines
are provided so that condition assessment
will be consistent among data collection
teams.
GOOD
• Full canopy Criteria for
• Minimal to no Good Condition
mechanical damage to
trunk
• No dieback of branches
over 2” diameter
• No suckering (root or
water)
• Form is characteristic
of species
• Thinning canopy
• New growth medium to C r i t e ri a f o r
low amount, or Fair Condition
stunted
• Significant
mechanical damage to
trunk, new or old
• Insect/disease that
is affecting tree
• Form not
representative of
species
• Premature fall
coloring on foliage
• Needs train pruning

• Tree is declining Criteria for

• Visible dead branches Poor Condition
over 2” diameter in
canopy
• Significant dieback of
other branches
• Severe mechanical
damage to trunk,
usually including
decay resulting from
damage
• New foliage small,
stunted, or
minimal amount
• Needs priority pruning
DEAD
Cr i t e r i a f o r
• No signs of life with Dead Condition
new foliage
• Bark may be beginning
to peel

DETERMINING TYPES OF PRUNING MAINTENANCE
NEEDED
Pruning is probably the most noticeable Reasons for

and most important of all tree pruning
maintenance practices. Careful pruning
produces a strong structure that is
better able to withstand conditions found
in populated areas. Trees are usually
pruned for one or more of three reasons:
• to preserve health
• to maintain good appearance
• to ensure public safety
A systematic pruning program is an

important component of every community
forest management plan.
The diagram below illustrates the B e n e f i c i a l e f fe c t s

beneficial effects of pruning. The trees of pruning
are identical species and each is fifteen
years old. The tree on the left has been
pruned, while the one on the right has
been left to grow and has deteriorated as
it would naturally. The pruned tree
exhibits the positive results of that
action: it is taller, has a better
defined crown, has no visible dead wood,

and is much less likely to create
problems.

Pruning for health includes removal of Pruning for health

broken, dead, or diseased branches, in
order to prevent pathogenic organisms
from penetrating into adjacent parts of
the tree or spreading to other trees.
Live branches are pruned out in order to
allow for more sunlight and air
circulation throughout the canopy. Crown
pruning also reduces wind resistance and
helps prevent breakage.
Pruning for appearance can maintain or Pruning for

restore the crown characteristics that appearance
are typical for the species. Crown
shaping is also used to restrict growth
of a normally large-growing shade or
ornamental tree and keep it within
certain boundaries, such as away from
buildings.
Pruning for safety eliminates dead, Pruning for safety

split, and broken branches before they
cause damage to people or property.
Danger from falling limbs exists where
there are targets, such as along
community streets and in public parks.
Pruning for safety also includes two

types of clearance trimming. Low-hanging
live branches need to be removed to eight
feet above ground to avoid interference
with pedestrian traffic, and to eighteen
feet above ground to avoid vehicular
traffic. The second type of clearance
trimming is the removal of branches that
obscure traffic signs and signals.
Safety pruning is required to keep

branches away from energized electrical
lines. Branches that touch lines may
interrupt service and may cause serious
injury if the lines are knocked down.

PRUNING CLASSES Three pruning

classes
There are three descriptions that
volunteers will use to record the pruning
maintenance needs for trees being
inventoried. This classification of
pruning recommendations is based on the
ANSI Standard A300 (©1995).
The three descriptions are Crown Clean,

Crown Raise, and Crown Reduce. Volunteers
are asked to become familiar with these
pruning descriptions and use them to
describe each tree’s pruning need on the
Data Collection Worksheet or in your PDA
unit.
Crown cleaning is the removal of dead, Crown cleaning

diseased, obstructing, split, and/or
broken branches that are 2” in diameter
or greater. Crown cleaning also
describes the need for thinning dense or
heavy foliar masses, in order to reduce
their susceptibility to failure.
CROWN CLEAN
CROWN
RAISE
CROWN
REDUCTION

Crown raising is the removal of the lower Crown raising

limbs of a street tree in order to
provide clearance for pedestrian and
vehicular traffic. Limbs above sidewalks
should be no lower than eight feet (8’).
Limbs above the road should be no lower
than eighteen feet (18’).
Crown reduction involves reducing the C r o w n r e d u ct i o n

overall mass by cutting back the top and
sides, or by just removing individual
limbs of the tree. Crown reduction is
commonly associated with pruning away
from buildings, structures, or overhead
utility wires.

RECOGNIZING POTENTIAL PROBLEMS IN TREES
Trees often exhibit problems that need to

be further evaluated by a Tree Warden or
other arborist with professional
expertise.
When a tree is inventoried that exhibits REVIEW:

a potential problem, that problem should “ C o n s u l t ” c a t e g o ry
be flagged by making a checkmark in the
box “Consult” on the Data Collection
Worksheet or in your PDA unit. This will
alert inventory specialists that there is
a need to have a professional re-examine
that particular tree.
A tree may appear healthy even when it

has extensive internal decay in most of
its supporting wood. This section of
Presentation 2 is designed to help
volunteers learn to recognize the
potential problems that require
professional evaluation.

Tree problems may result in: Results of tree

• structural weakness problems
• vulnerability in high winds, snow,
and ice storms
• potentially serious damage to people
and property.
Problem indicators that will be discussed I n d i c a t o r s of

below include the following: problems
1. cavities, wounds, internal decay in

the trunk or large branches
2. cankers
3. root failure
4. weak forks in trunk or large
branches
5. canopy density
6. balance
1. Cavities, wounds, and internal decay. Problem #1:

Shade trees in populated areas are Causes of wounding
constantly being wounded. The most common
causes of wounds in trees include
• construction
• automobiles, trucks
• bicycles
• mowers, string trimmers
• snowplows
• vandals
The most serious effect of wounding is Ef f e c t o f w o u n d i n g

that it creates an opening for fungi and
bacteria to enter the tree. These
microorganisms decay wood. Columns of
decayed wood may result, thus
compromising health and structure of the
entire tree. Most wounds are small and
close quickly by themselves, but severe
ones require attention in order to close
properly.

Trees often exhibit the physical evidence Internal and

of wounding. Just as frequently, external decay
however, they have internal decay whose
presence is not visible on the outside.
Cross sections of
Cavity Cavit
trunk decay
Cross Section of Cross Section of

Trunk Trunk
(E t l D ) (Internal Decay)
Even though the decay itself may not be External symptoms

visible, trees readily show symptoms of of internal decay
decay, such as
• Large dead or dying branches throughout

the crown
• Large and deep vertical cracks on the
trunk or large branches
• Large areas of exposed wood without
bark on the trunk, indicating older
wounds that have not closed
• Branch wounds that remain open
• Mushrooms or conks (shelf-like growths
of fungi) on the trunk
• Carpenter ants along with evidence of
decayed wood in or around the tree

Arborists have a number of tools Tools used by
available to check for internal decay. arborists to
• A rubber mallet relies on sounds made d e t e c t i n t e r n al
by differing wood densities as the tree decay
is struck. This method is harmless to
the tree but admittedly subjective.
• An increment borer is used to remove
and examine a small core of the tree
about ¼” thick. This method causes some
wounding.
• An electric drill and 1/8” bit can
reveal rot through changes in drilling
speed and ease, as well as through
examination of the extracted wood
chips.
• The Shigo meter uses a pulsed
electrical current to measure the
resistance of the wood and thereby the
presence of decay. Drilling is
necessary for this method.
Shigo
meter Rubber
mallet
Increment Drill &

borer bit
In addition to the above tools, arborists

today often use the recently-developed
resistograph. This is a boring instrument
that uses a very fine needle to measure
the resistance of the wood and records
the variations on a printout similar to
an electrocardiogram. The wounding
created by a resistograph is far less
than that caused by a drill.

Visual observation is another important

tool in the detection arsenal. Three
common signs that signal serious problems
are conks, cankers, and fungi.
Conks are visible fruiting structures of Problem #1:

wood decay fungi and indicate serious Conks
problems. Conks may appear on the
external surface of an infected stem or
trunk.
2. Cankers. After wounds and other Problem #2:

signs of decay, cankers are the second Cankers
problem indicator. Cankers develop from
microorganisms and appear as localized
dead areas on outside bark. Cankers kill
the cambium, the growing layer just
inside the bark. The continuing dieback
of the cambium layer prevents the wound
from closing.
Cankers injure trees in several ways:

• The open wound may provide entry for
other microorganisms
• The trunk is weakened by the large dead
area and may break at the canker face
• Multiple cankers lessen overall trunk
flexibility, especially in windy
conditions
Conk Canker Fungi

3. Root failure. The third problem that Problem #3:

volunteers may encounter in trees is Root failure
evidence of root failure. Three main
causes of root failure are
• Severed roots - caused by

construction excavation Causes of
• Shallow roots - caused by a wet site r o ot f a i l u r e
(from a high water table or nearby
water body)
• Decayed roots
Indicator signs around the tree that may Indicators of

signal the presence of decayed roots decayed roots
include
• Soil erosion
• Paving over roots
• Soil compaction
• Flooding
• Recent filling
• Gas leaks
Fungi that appear at the base of a tree Fungi

trunk usually indicate the presence of
root rot microorganisms. These
microorganisms kill certain tree species
and may cause even living trees to fall.
4. Weak forks in trunk or large branches. Problem #4:

The fourth indicator sign of potential Weak forks
tree problems is a weak trunk or branch
attachment, usually at less than a 40°
angle. Pressure exerted from both sides
of the fork during the growth process
limits the formation of supporting wood
on the inside of the narrow angle, making
the fork structurally weak.

As the branch or trunk grows larger and
heavier, its increased weight makes it
more prone to breakage. A weak fork may
not split completely at first. The
problem may start with a small fissure
that leaves the tree open to invasion by
microorganisms.
HEALTHY WEAK
The resulting decay further weakens the

fork and eventually causes it to split
apart. Large branches or trunks with
weak forks pose significant safety issues
and should always be evaluated by a
professional arborist.

5. Canopy density. A healthy tree will Problem #5:

have a full crown, with few dead Canopy density
branches. Dead or dying areas in the
crown may indicate that the tree is
stressed and could be in decline. It is
important to examine the overall canopy
to look for dead or declining sections as
possible indicators of underlying
problems.
Full, healthy crown Dead areas in crown

with few dead indicate underlying
branches problems

6. Balance. A leaning or lopsided tree Problem #6:
may be more problematic than one that Balance
grows vertically. If a tree has always
been growing off center, it is generally
considered to be stable. Any sudden lean
usually indicates weakening or breakage
of support roots and should be cause for
immediate attention.
Problem tree species. There are some T r e e s p e ci e s w i t h

species of trees whose inherent inherent problems
characteristics may pose potential
problems. The following are common
species encountered as street trees, and
the characteristic(s) that may cause them
to present problems. This information is
offered to help volunteers assess tree
condition by knowing to look for specific
problems in these species.
Common Name Scientific Name Problem
Boxelder Acer negundo Weakwood

Silver Maple Acer saccharinum Weakwood
Weakwood/
Poplar Populus spp. forks
Pyrus calleryana
Bradford Pear "Bradford" Weak forks
Willow Salix spp. Weakwood
Siberian Elm Ulmus pumila Weakwood

Summary of trees that should be Summary

designated as requiring consultation
includes those with:
• Cavities, wounds, internal decay

• Cankers
• Signs of possible root damage
• Weak forks
• Sparse canopy or partial dieback
• Leaning or lopsidedness
This presentation has been designed to Procedure for

teach volunteers how to recognize volunteers to
problems in trees. In the course of the i nv e n t o r y p r o b l e m
inventory, volunteers should be able to trees
• recognize those trees that may

potentially affect the safety of people
or property
• identify those trees by marking

“consult” for those tree numbers on the
Data Collection Worksheet or in your
PDA unit
• record those trees on the “List of

Trees Requiring Consulting” (see sample
on pg. 87)
As noted, the category “Consult” means

that the tree should be evaluated by a
Tree Warden or other trained professional
arborist.

MATCHING REVIEW WORKSHEET
A. Tree that is in healthy condition

CROWN
with few or no
CLEANING
defects.
B. A tree that is typically weak
wooded because of CONK
its rapid growth rate
C. Union between two branches that
has included WEAK FORK
bark
D. Removing lower limbs of a tree to
provide clearance
GOOD
for pedestrian or vehicular
traffic
E. Common measurement of a tree CONSULT
F. Tree that is in a general state of

decline and may
DBH
have severe insect, disease, or
mechanical injury.
G. Planting location that provides
adequate room for tree height and SILVER MAPLE
root growth
H. Typical of a containerized grown
plant, it usually CROWN
deters basal growth and eventually REDUCTION
affects the tree’s health
I. Pruning out dead, diseased, split,
and broken LAWN
branches > 2” diameter
J. A tree condition that requires
further evaluation by a certified POOR
arborist.
K. A fruiting structure of a fungus,
GIRDLING
visible on the lower trunk and
ROOT
indicative of internal decay
L. Removing selected branches or
reducing the overall mass, to clear CROWN
canopy away from structures or RAISING
overhead wires

Presentation 3. TREE I.D. TERMS &
TECHNIQUES
A tree is identified by both a scientific How trees are
name and a common name. Scientific names named
are very precise. Each tree has only one
scientific name. It consists of at least
two parts, a genus name and a species
name. Sometimes a tree is further
identified by variety or cultivated
variety (cultivar).
There are strict rules about how Scientific names

scientific names are written. For
example,
Scientific name: Acer rubrum

• Genus: comes 1st, is capitalized
• Species: is not capitalized
• Scientific name is underlined or
italicized
• The underlining is interrupted between
the two parts
Common names are imprecise, and they Common names

often create confusion because their
usage is not consistent. One common
name may be used to describe two or more
different trees or species of tree. Just
as often, one tree species may be known
by more than one common name.
An example of the confusion caused by Example of

common names occurs with two maple c on f u s i o n
species. Acer rubrum is commonly (and
almost equally) known by two common
names, swamp maple and red maple.
However, some people use “red maple” to
refer to a red-leaved variety of Acer
platanoides, Norway maple. Both are
maples, but they have significant
differences and Norway maple has invasive
qualities as well.
45
TECHNIQUES
The task of identifying a particular tree Conifers and
generally begins with the question hardwoods
“Conifer or hardwood?” There are readily
noticeable differences between the two:
Conifers Hardwoods
- mostly evergreen -mostly deciduous
- needles or scales -leaves
- no flowers -flowers
- seeds are in cones -seeds are in
fruits
To identify conifers, it is helpful to Identifying

look at c o n if e r s
• Overall form (silhouette, habit)

• Type of foliage
− Needles or scales
− If needles, how many in a bundle
• Cones
− Shape, size, placement on twig
To identify broad-leaved hardwood trees, Identifying

it is helpful to look at hardwoods
• Overall form (silhouette, habit)

• Leaf shapes
• Flowers
• Fruit
• Bark and twigs
• Buds (leaf and flower)
46
TECHNIQUES
The overall form of trees is an important Growth habit or
identification tool. Trees grow in form
distinct patterns that differ from
species to species.
Some typical shapes are
• Oval to rounded
• Vase
• Weeping
• Pyramidal or cone (many evergreens)
• Columnar
Leaves are a key feature for identifying Leaves

deciduous hardwood trees. The first
items to be determined about leaves are
LEAF TYPES
Simple Compound
Alternate
LEAF
ARRANGEMENTS
Opposite
47
TECHNIQUES
Compound leaves have leaflets and include Types of compound
three types: leaves
Feather-compound
Pinnately
Fan-compound
Palmately
Twice-compound
Bi-pinnately
Other distinctive features of leaves that Leaf edges and

aid in tree identification include vein patterns
• Shape
• Margin (edge)
− Smooth, toothed, wavy
• Vein pattern
− Feather-shape, palm-shape
LEAF
MARGINS
Entire Serrate
VEIN
PATTERNS
Pinnate Palmate
48
TECHNIQUES
Biologists sometimes use technical words Leaf shapes
to describe leaf shapes, such as
lanceolate (lance-shaped, i.e. long and
thin), ovate (egg-shaped), and obovate
(wider at the leaf tip than at the leaf
stalk). Some of the many different
shapes of leaves are shown below.
Fruits are yet another feature that is Fruits on

useful to help identify a hardwood hardwoods
species. Types of fruits include
• acorns (oak)
• winged keys or samara
− single (elm)
− double (maple)
• pomes (apple, pear)
• drupes (cherry, plum)
• pod (locust, honeylocust)
• berry (holly, dogwood)
• capsule (poplar, willow)
• nut (beech, hickory, horsechestnut)
49
TECHNIQUES
More detailed descriptions and
illustrations of each of the above Tree
features are contained in tree identification
identification manuals and field guides. field guides
Several titles are listed at the end of
this section. Participants may find it
helpful to borrow a field guide from the
local public library or to purchase one
(most are available in paperback).
A process called “keying out” is a common

method that is used to help identify a
tree by using its leaves. Learning this
method will help participants maximize
use of the tree identification pages in
this manual or any field guide.
A species key is arranged in couplets.

The two statements are written so that if
one is true, the other must be false.
Each statement in the couplet begins with
the same number.
Using a key to
To navigate through the species key identify broad—
• read the pair of statements in the leaved tree
couplet
• determine which statement applies to
the plant in question
At the end of each statement there is

either
• the genus of the plant identified,
or
• direction to another numbered
couplet
When the genus of the plant has been

identified, it is then possible to look
up and read about that genus in a tree
field guide.
“Definitions for
The “Definitions for Tree Identification”
Tree Identification”
that follow will help you as you
determine the type of tree you are
inventorying.
50
Presentation 3. TREE I.D. TERMS & TECHNIQUES
DEFINITIONS FOR TREE IDENTIFICATION

Alternate – leaves occurring singly along a stem in an
alternating position (cf. opposite)
Blade – the broad part of the leaf
Compound – each leaf is divided into two or more segments called
leaflets (cf. simple)
Cultivar – cultivated variety. May be included as a third word in a
scientific name.
Deciduous – refers to trees that lose their leaves on a seasonal
basis
Double-toothed, double serrate – the large teeth on the leaf edge bear
smaller teeth within
Entire – the margin of the leaf has no teeth or lobes
Genus – the first word in a two-word scientific name

Lanceolate - much longer than wide; lance-shaped
Lobed – a projecting division of a leaf
Margin – the edge of the leaf
Opposite – leaves situated at each node, across from each other on the
stem (cf. alternate)
Ovate – egg-shaped in outline
Palmate – branching or radiating fan-like from a common point.
Leaves can be palmately veined. Compound leaves can have
palmately-arranged leaflets.
Petiole – the stem of the leaf (cf. stalk)
Pinnate – branching from a common axis; feather-like. Leaves can be
pinnately veined. Compound leaves can have pinnately-arranged
leaflets.
Samara - single (elm) or double (maple) winged keys that contain
seeds
Simple – each leaf is composed of a single segment (cf. compound)
Serrate – the margin of the leaf has teeth; sawtoothed
Serrulate – the margin of the leaf has minute teeth

Species – the second word in a two-word scientific name
Stalk – the stem of the leaf (cf. petiole)
Variety – subdivision of a species. May be included as a third word
in a scientific name.
51
TECHNIQUES
TREE IDENTIFICATION GUIDES:

A SELECTED REFERENCE LIST
Brockman, C. Frank. 1968. Trees of North America: A Guide to Tree

Identification. Western Publishing Co., Inc., Racine, WI
and Golden Press, New York.
Coombes, Allen J. 1992. Trees. Eyewitness Handbooks. Dorling

Kindersley, Inc., New York. 320 pp.
Dirr, Michael A. 1998. Manual of Woody Landscape Plants, 5th ed.

Stipes Publishing L.L.C., Champaign, IL. 1187 pp.
Elias, Thomas S. 1987. The Complete Trees of North America: Field

Guide and Natural History. Gramercy Publishing Company, New
York. 948 pp.
Gerhold, Henry D. et al., Editors. 1993. Street Tree Factsheets.

Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences, University
Park, PA. Unpaged.
Little, Elbert L. 1980. National Audubon Society Field Guide to

Trees, Eastern Region. Alfred A. Knopf, New York. 714 pp.
Petrides, George A. 1972. A Field Guide to Trees and Shrubs, 2nd

ed. Northeastern and north-central United States and
southeastern and south-central Canada. The Peterson Field
Guide Series. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston. 428 pp.
Plotnik, Arthur. 2000. The Urban Tree Book. Three Rivers Press,
New York. 432 pp.
52
TECHNIQUES
53
Presentation 4. MAPPING
The two pieces of information needed
about each tree are 1) the tree’s Mapping component
location and 2) the data associated with of a tree
the tree itself, i.e. its species, size, inventory
condition, and maintenance need.
A critical part of the inventory process,

therefore, is to pinpoint the real-world
location of each tree. Tree location
points and tree identification numbers
can then be entered into a Geographic
Information System (GIS) computer program
and linked with the other data collected
about each tree.
Accuracy in both identifying and

recording location is of key importance.
For the inventory data collection
process, volunteers need to know
• How to make an accurate determination

of where the tree is located,
relative to buildings and other
landmarks around it
• How to transfer this information by

marking the tree location on a map or
aerial photograph
Block plans are a type of map. Block

plans show the physical layout of About block plans
property parcels along streets and roads
in a community. Block plans usually also
include the outline of building
footprints located on each property.
54
C
CB • Catch basin
• Pole
• Street light
Elements of block
----
• Property line plans
x-x- • Fence or wall
• Swimming pool outline
• Tennis court outline
The various elements that may appear on

block plans include
• Streets and roads
• Names of streets and roads
• Property lines and line
lengths
• Building footprints
• Parcel sizes (square feet)
• Street address numbers
• Block Plan Number
The diagram below illustrates some of the

symbols commonly found on block plans.
Confirm the
tree's
location; show
location on map
with (*) and
I.D. number;
Circle the (*)

and the I.D.
number, to
confirm
55
Aerial photographs are taken by cameras
precisely mounted on an airplane. Such About aerial
photos give a complete view of buildings, photographs
roads, parking areas, vegetation, cars,
and other elements visible from the air.
It is possible to locate trees quite
accurately using aerial photographs.
The process of assigning numbers to

inventoried trees needs to be accurate Numbering trees
and methodical, in order to ensure that
each tree receives a unique
identification number and that there are
no duplications. The process runs
smoothly using the procedure outlined
below:
• A unique series of numbers is assigned

to each volunteer team.
P r o c e d u r e f or
− This provides enough numbers unique volunteer teams
to each team, and it prevents
duplication of numbers among teams
• Each volunteer team starts with the

lowest number in its assigned series
• The team increases each tree number by

one as it moves from tree to tree
56
• The team is careful to enter the

correct, sequential tree number on the
Data Collection Worksheet
• The team is careful to enter the same

number on the block map or aerial photo
that it used on the Data Collection
Worksheet to identify that particular
tree
MATCHING THE TREE ID NUMBER is an

important cross-check. The tree Sample pattern of
identification number for any one tree number assignments
should be the same in both places:
• The iTree software program

• The map or aerial photograph
A sample pattern of number assignments Example of team

might look like this: use of number
assignments
Team A Trees 0001-3000
Team B Trees 3001-6000
Team C Trees 6001-9000
The teams would then proceed as outlined

below.
Team A records its first tree as 0001
• In the iTree software program

• On the map or aerial photograph
Team A progresses numerically towards

3000, until it has surveyed every tree
in its assigned area.
57
Team B records its first tree as 3001

Team B progresses numerically towards

Team C records its first tree as 6001

Team C progresses numerically towards

In order to ensure mapping accuracy,

volunteer teams will need to Mapping accuracy
• Find where the tree is located in the
real world, in relation to nearby
building, roads, landmarks
• Mark the tree location on the map or
aerial photograph
The principal steps involved in a tree

inventory are thus Three main
i n v e n t o ry s t e p s
1. Map the point • of the tree location
2. Collect the tree data using the iTree

software
3. Record each tree’s unique

identification in the following two
locations:
→ In the iTree software program

(automatically advances to next
value)
→ with its point location • on the
map or aerial photo
58
The volunteer team procedure for marking
tree locations on maps is outlined below Recording tree
in 10 easy-to-follow steps. locations on maps
( if r e q u i r e d )
1. Record the date and names of the team
members in the iTree software program.
2. Locate the area that the localized map

covers, using the master map found with
the team’s set of maps.
3. Go to a map location that the team can

positively identify. Find it by using
the street name, lot lines, and street
intersections.
4. Locate a public tree nearby the place

where the team is standing.
5. Find that tree/location on the map.
6. Place a • on that point on the map.
7. Label the • point with the first unique

identification number of the team’s
assigned range.
8. Collect the data about the tree using

the iTree software program.
9. The iTree program will automatically

update the trees identification number.
10. Locate the next tree and repeat the

procedure.
59
The volunteer team procedure for marking
tree locations on aerial photographs is Recording tree
outlined below in 10 easy-to-follow locations on
steps. a e r i a l p h o to g r a p h s
(if required)
1. Record the date and names of the team
members on the aerial photograph.
2. Go to the area indicated on the aerial

photograph, using the master map found
with the team project packet.
3. Go to a location that the team can

positively identify on the ground and
in the aerial photograph. Find it by
locating on the ground the recognizable
elements in the photograph, such as
buildings, street corners, edges of
paved areas, ball fields, basketball
and tennis courts, waterways, etc.
Orient the team at the known location.
Look around for other landmarks that
will give an indication of real-world
size, scale, and dimensions as they
relate to the photo.
4. Locate a public tree nearby the place

where the team is standing.
5. Find that tree/location on the aerial

photo.
6. Place a • at that point on the

aerial photo.
7. Label the • point with the first unique

identification number of the team’s
assigned range.
8. Collect the data about the tree using

the iTree software program.
9. The iTree program will automatically

update the trees identification number.
10. Locate the next tree and repeat the

procedure.
60
61
Presentation 5. INVENTORY DATA COLLECTION
This module reviews the data collection Data Collection
process and the information that Process
volunteers will enter in the iTree
software program. The presentation also
outlines tree species codes which are
used in the iTree Software.
The system of codes was developed by the Tree Species

USDA for use in forest settings. Examples Codes
of these codes include
• ACCA – Hedge Maple
• BEAL – Yellow Birch
• FAGR – American Beech
Primary and secondary lists tree species Derivation of

are included as an Appendix to this letter codes
manual. In the lists, the species are
arranged alphabetically by scientific
names.
SPECIES CODES ~ FOR COMMONLY FOUND STREET TREES
PRIMARY LIST
Code Scientific Name Common Name Code

AG Acer ginnala Amur Maple AG
AP Acer platanoides Norway Maple AP
AR Acer rubrum Red (Swamp) Maple AR
AS Acer saccharinum Silver Maple AS

AM Acer saccharum Sugar Maple AM
AH Aesculus hippocastanum Horsechestnut AH
CS Catalpa speciosa Northern Catalpa CS

CF Cornus florida Flowering Dogwood CF
FA Fraxinus americana White Ash FA
There will be cases where volunteers are Troubleshooting

unable to identify a tree’s genus and tree species
species. There will be other cases where codes
volunteers are able to identify the genus
and species, but it is not listed on the
codes list.
The procedure for these cases is as
follows:
CASE #1
• IF the species cannot be identified
• THEN record ?? when prompted for the
species code when using iTree
62
CASE #2
• IF the species is identified but is not
listed on the codes list
• THEN record that tree on the “Uncoded
Trees List” (Blank form is found in
Appendix)
Note: This procedure requires that

volunteers record twice those trees for
which there is no species code available.
Each tree that has no code should be
recorded in two places:
Recording trees
1. On the “Uncoded Trees List” using with no species
− The unique identification number codes
− The species
− A tree species code assigned by
the volunteer team
2. In the iTree PDA Software

− The same tree species code
assigned by the volunteer team
and recorded on the “Uncoded
Trees List”
STREET TREE INVENTORY

UNCODED TREES LIST
This sheet is to be used to record a tree that
1. Has been identified and
2. Is not listed on the Primary or Secondary Species Code Lists.
In the spaces below, record the identification number of the tree

surveyed, the species, and the code that you have assigned the tree.
(This code should be the same one you have used to record the tree on
the Tree Inventory Data Sheet.)
DATE:
MAP #:
INVENTORY TEAM MEMBERS: 1.

2.
3.
TREE I.D. # TREE SPECIES THE CODE YOU

ASSIGNED
63
Several different formats of Data Items on the Data
Collection Worksheets are used in Collection
inventory, offering each community the Worksheet
opportunity to select one that best meets
its needs. Most of these forms generally
present information presented in Module
2: Tree Characteristics. iTree uses many
of these variables including the
following items:
• Unique tree identification number

• Tree species code Size (DBH)
• Condition
• Planting location
• Maintenance or pruning need
• Special conditions
More specifics of this are outlined in

the iTree data collection manual which
follows in the next section of this
document.
Presented below is a brief review of each

of these items. For detailed discussion
refer to Module 2.
Tree # (Tree number) - the unique Tree

identification number assigned to a identification
specific tree. Number
Species Code - A unique code that Species code

identifies a tree’s genus and species.
Size (DBH) – the diameter of the tree at Size (DBH)

breast height, taken at 4.5’ above ground
level.
Condition - the condition of the tree at Condition

the time of the inventory. The condition
rating will be Good, Fair, Poor, or Dead.
Consult – for each tree that exhibits How to record a

any of the problems described in Module tree that needs a
2: “Problem Trees,” Check the consult box p r o fe s s i o n a l
in iTree assessment
64
Maintenance or pruning need - the

options are generally Crown Clean, Crown Maintenance need
Raise, or Crown Reduce. Some formats may
also have a category for tree removal.
Comments/Special c o nd i t i o n s –Special
conditions and comments include dead
wood, weak fork, heavy lean, significant
mechanical damage, or cavity. All of the
latter are descriptions of conditions
that should also be given a “consult”
designation. Other special conditions
include the presence of overhead utility
wires, a cable or brace, impervious
material extending up to trunk, and other
conditions that affect tree structure or
health.
65
iTree Software Suite

User’s Manual
Draft Manual
August, 2004
USDA Forest Service

Davey Resource Group
Bluejay Software
Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources
City of Minneapolis
Tree Trust
66
I-TREE DESKTOP USER’S MANUAL
THIS IS THE MANUAL FOR RUNNING I-TREE DESKTOP. READ THESE

INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY AND FOLLOW THEM TO SUCCESSFULLY RUN THIS
PROGRAM.
1. Click the “Start” button, which is located at the bottom

left hand corner of the screen.
2. A menu will appear. Place the pointed over the group named
“Programs”.
3. Another menu should appear. Find the program named iTREE-
Desktop, highlight the pointer over it and click the icon
named “iTREE-Desktop” in the new menu that appears.
4. The program should start in its own window. (See Figure-1)
(Figure-1)
5. Click the button labeled “Configuration”. (See Figure-2)
(Figure-2)
67
6. A new window will open with a series of tabbed menus. You
can now choose specific specifications of the program such
as whether or not to use English or Metric units under the
tab labeled “General”. (See Figure-3)
(Figure-3)
7. Also in that menu choose whether to use Stratum or MCTI

defaults. Notice that clicking one of the buttons will
disable some of the buttons that clicking the other button
wouldn’t. To start click the button labeled “STRATUM
Defaults”. This will disable some buttons and enabled
others. (See Figure-4)
(Figure-4)
68
8. Move to the next tabbed menu labeled “DBH” by clicking on

it. (See Figure-5)
(Figure-5)
9. Choose the ratio of inches from the minimum to maximum

value for what it will display on your PDA. Once all of
that is entered click “Save DBH Info” (See Figure-6)
(Figure-6)
69
10. Click the Maintenance tab to open up the new menu.

In that menu determine the Maintenance Tasks and
Recommendations in the given boxes. Once all of the proper
information is entered click the “Save Maintenance Info”
button. (See Figure-7)
(Figure-7)
70
11. Click the next tabbed menu to the right labeled “Wire
Conflict” Enter the wire conflict information that will
display on the PDA. Once all of the requested information
has been entered click the button labeled “Save Wire
Conflict Info”. (See Figure-8)
(Figure-8)
71
12. Click the next tab, which can be found above the
beginning “General” tab. It will be labeled “Condition” A
new menu screen appears similar to the “Wire Conflict”
menu. Enter the requested information then click the
button labeled “Save Condition Info” (See Figure-9)
(Figure-9)
72
13. Once again, click the next menu tab to the right,
named “Land Use”, and a new window will appear. Enter all
of the categories the land use can be and when you are
finished click the “Save Land Use Info” button. (See
Figure-10)
(Figure-10)
14. Move to the next menu named “Location” by clicking

its tab. Enter the different location categories and then
click “Save Location info” (See Figure-11)
73
(Figure-11)
15. Click over to the next menu labeled “Sidewalk” and
enter the different categories of sidewalks if they are not
already labeled. Once all the information is entered click
the “Save Sidewalks Info” (See Figure-12)
(Figure-12)
74
16. Once more click to the next menu labeled “Crown

Diam.” to put that new menu into focus. It will tell you
what units of measurement you have chosen at the top of the
screen. This will display the minimum to maximum
measurements of the trees diameter at its crown (in feet).
Once all of this information has been entered click the
“Save Crown Diam. Info” button. (See Figure-13)
75
(Figure-13)
17. If you notice the row of tabbed buttons is all

disabled except for the one labeled “Team ID”. Click that
one to open up the menu for Team ID’s. (See Figure-14)
76
(Figure-14)
18. There is a list of teams for doing the requested

work. You can add another team by pressing the “Add”
(Figure-15)
19. You can also edit a teams name by highlighting the

team(clicking the name only once) and clicking the “Edit”
(Figure-16)
20. To delete the name highlight the team (by clicking

the team name only once) and click the “Delete” button.
(See Figure-17)
(Figure-17)
21. Click back to the “General” tab menu and click the
button labeled “MCTI Defaults”. You will see now that some
of the tab menus that were accessible before are now
disable and some of the previously disable tab menus are
now accessible. (See Figure-18)
77
(Figure-18)
22. In the top row of tabs click the tab menu named
“Other 1” These menus are for other entries that may need
to be entered in about the tree. Enter the title of the
entry and all of the possible answers and then click the
“Save Other 1 Info” button. (See Figure-19)
(Figure-19)
23. Repeat step 22 with the tab menus “Other 2” and

“Other 3” if any more entries are necessary.
78
ADDING AND REMOVING TREE SPECIES
1. Click the button labeled “Tree Species” A new window will

appear. (See Figure-20)
(Figure-20)
2. To add a new species click the “Add Species” button and

enter the requested information. (See Figure-21)
(Figure-21)
3. To delete a species or edit a species click the desired

species only once to highlight it and then click
“Edit/Delete Species”. (See Figure-22)
(Figure-22)
4. If you want to use the new specie list you have to create a
file for the PDA by clicking the button named “Create File
For PDA”. (See Figure-23)
(Figure-23)
END OF SECTION
79
ADDING AND REMOVING STREET NAMES

1. Click the button labeled “Street List”. (See Figure-24)
(Figure-24)
2. Check the streets that you want available on the PDA you or
someone else will be using with this configuration. (See
Figure-25)
80
(Figure-25)
3. If you want to add a street click the button labeled “Add”

(See Figure-26)
(Figure-26)
4. If you want to delete a street click the button labeled

“Delete” (See Figure-27)
(Figure-27)
81
5. To import a list from another place click the button
labeled “Import a Street List From an Excel File” (See
Figure-28)
(Figure-28)
6. To save any changes you have made to the street like click
the button labeled “Create File for PDAs” This street will
update during the next active sync. (See Figure-29)
(Figure-29)
END OF SECTION
82
iTREE POCKET PC USER’S MANUAL
NOW THAT YOU HAVE CONFIGURED THE DESKTOP YOU CAN NOW USE A
PERSONAL DIGITAL ASSISTANT (PDA) TO RUN iTREE.
FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.
1. For these updates and configurations that you made to have

any effect on your PDA you need to have ActiveSync (See
other manual) and your PDA must be connected and
synchronized with your computer.
2. Once ActiveSync activates and is in Sync with your computer
all of the configuration updates you have made will be
automatically downloaded to the PDA. You may now unplug
the PDA and use iTREE anywhere you like until more updates
are needed.
3. Once all of that is complete click the start button on your
PDA, which is located at the top left corner of the screen.
A menu will drop down.
4. Click the category named “Programs”. A new window will
appear.
5. Scroll down the list of given programs until you find the
program named iTREE. Click on that to start the program.
83
6. The program will load and the iTREE main menu screen will
appear. Click the button labeled “Log In” to be able to
access all of the features of this program. (See Figure-30)
(Figure-30)
84
7. A new window will appear. A Team ID is not required so

click the button labeled “Continue”. (See Figure-31)
(Figure-31)
85
8. Now that you are logged in you can access all of the
features. Click the button labeled “Add New Tree”.
9. A new window will appear with information boxes. Enter the
Tree ID. Enter the zone it is in along with the block.
Click the drop down box labeled “Species” and choose from
the list the specie of the tree you are adding. Also check
the box next to it if you want to use a search value for
the species. Doing this will mean you have to enter the
code of the tree in the box below the species box labeled
“Species Search”. You need to know the code (which is case
sensitive) and enter it in the box. Then click search to
find the tree. Enter whether or not it is a public tree,
the land use, and the location by dropping down the boxes
and choosing from one of the choices. (See Figure-32 &
Figure-33)
86
(Figure-32)
87
(Figure-33)
10. Once all of that information is entered and completed

click the button labeled “Street Address/GPS (Lat/Long).
11. A new window will appear Enter the address number in
the given box. Choose the street name by clicking on the
drop down box labeled “St. Name” and choosing from the list
of given streets. If the desired street does not appear on
this list write it manually in the box given below. If the
latitude and longitude of the area is know enter it. Also,
if you want to hold the street name for the next entry then
click the check box labeled so. (See Figure-34 & 35)
88
(Figure-34)
89
(Figure-35)
12. Once all of that is entered click the “Save” button

to return back to the previous window.
13. On the bottom of this screen there are 5 tab buttons
which will take you to different menus when clicked. Right
now you are clicked on the button labeled “Loc”. Click on
the next button labeled “Dim”.
90
14. A new menu will appear, with the title “TREE

DIMENSIONS” at the top. (See Figure-36)
(Figure-36)
91
15. Enter the class of the DBH in the drop down menu
below that label. Also enter the crown’s height. (See
Figure-37)
(Figure-37)
16. Click the next menu over which is labeled “Mgmnt”.
92
17. A new menu will appear, titled “TREE MANAGEMENT”. If

available to do so, enter in the recommendation of
maintenance, the maintenance task, the sidewalk damage, and
the wire conflict. (See Figure-38)
(Figure-38)
93
1. Once all of that is completed click the next menu button

which is labeled “Cond”. A new menu will appear with
the title “TREE CONDITION”. Choose the condition of the
wood with the dropdown menu labeled “Condition of Wood.”
(See Figure-39)
94
(Figure-39)
2. Enter the leaf condition in the given drop down menu.

(See Figure-40)
95
(Figure-40)
96
3. Also enter the percent of deadwood in the given drop
down menu. (See Figure-41)
(Figure-41)
97
4. Finally, enter whether or not there is a cavity or a

weak fork in both of the given drop down menus. (See
Figure-42 & 43)
(Figure-42)
98
(Figure-43)
5. Once all of that information is entered click the next

menu button over, the one labeled “MCTI”. A new menu
will appear.
6. Check whether to remove or maintain this MCTI and
whether to clean, raise, or reduce it. If you need to
evaluate the tree, check the labeled box and drop down
menus next to all the categories following it will then
be enabled. Any notes that need taking enter them in
the specific box and specify if this tree needs to be
noted and if consulting is needed. (See Figure-44)
99
(Figure-44)
7. Click Save/Exit to save all of the information you have

entered when you are done.
END OF SECTION
100
DELETING OR EDITING EXISTING ENTRIES

1. Now that you are back at the main menu click the next
button below labeled “Edit Tree”. A new menu will
appear. (See Figure-45)
(Figure-45)
2. A list appears of all of the already stored tree

files in the program. Click once on the tree you
want to edit and click the button labeled “Edit” to
edit the tree (which will bring you to the same
screens as would adding another, yet all of the
101
information you had added before will be filled in)
or “Delete” to get rid of that file.
END OF SECTION AND MANUAL
ENJOY!
102
Appendix A. Species Codes Primary/Secondary
SPECIES CODES ~ FOR COMMONLY FOUND STREET TREES
PRIMARY LIST

ACGI Acer ginnala Amur Maple ACGI
ACPL Acer platanoides Norway Maple ACPL
ACRU Acer rubrum Red (Swamp) Maple ACRU
ACSA1 Acer saccharinum Silver Maple ACSA1

ACSA2 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple ACSA2
AEHI Aesculus hippocastanum Horsechestnut AEHI
CASP Catalpa speciosa Northern Catalpa CSSP

COFL Cornus florida Flowering Dogwood COFL
FRAM Fraxinus americana White Ash FRAM
FRPE Fraxinus pennsylvanica Green Ash FRPE

GIBI Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo GIBI
GLTR Gleditsia triacanthos Honeylocust GLTR
LIST Liquidambar styraciflua Sweetgum LIST

MAFL80 Malus x spp. Flowering Crabapple MAFL80
PIST Pinus strobus Eastern White Pine PIST
PLAC Platanus x acerifolia London Planetree PLAC

PRCO Prunus spp. Flowering Cherry PRCO
PYCA Pyrus calleryana 'Bradford' Callery Pear PYCA
QUPA Quercus palustris Pin Oak QUPA

QURU Quercus rubra Red Oak QURU
SOAU Sorbus aucuparia Eastern Mountain Ash SOAU

TICO Tilia cordata Littleleaf Linden TICO
TSCA Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock TSCA
ULAM Ulmus americana American Elm ULAM

ZESE Zelkova serrata Japanese Zelkova ZESE
Volunteer Inventory Training Manual A-1

Appendix A. Species Codes Primary/Secondary
SPECIES CODES ~ FOR COMMONLY FOUND STREET TREES SECONDARY
LIST

ACCA Acer campestre Hedge Maple ACCA
AIAL Ailanthus altissima Tree of Heaven AIAL
BEAL Betula alleghaniensis Yellow Birch BEAL
BEPA Betula papyrifera Paper Birch BEPA

BEPO Betula populifolia Grey Birch BEPO
CEJA Cercidiphyllum japonicum Katsura Tree CEJA
CEOC Celtis occidentalis Hackberry CEOC

CLLU Cladrastis kentukea Yellowwood CLLU
COKO Cornus kousa Kousa Dogwood COKO
CRLA80 Crataegus laevigata English Hawthorn CRLA80

FAGR Fagus grandifolia American Beech FAGR
FASY Fagus sylvatica European Beech FASY
(includes 'Cuprea' Copper Beech)
LITU Liriodendron tulipifera Tuliptree LITU

OXAR Oxydendron arboreum Sourwood OXAR
PLOC Platanus occidentalis Sycamore PLOC
PIAB Picea abies Norway Spruce PIAB

PIGL Picea glauca White Spruce PIGL
PIPU Picea pungens Colorado Blue Spruce PIPU
PIRE Pinus resinosa Red Pine PIRE

PINI Pinus nigra Austrian Pine PINI
QUAL Quercus alba White Oak QUAL
QUVE Quercus velutina Black Oak QUVE
SABA Salix babylonica Weeping Willow SABA

SYRE Syringa reticulata Japanese Tree Lilac SYRE
TADI Taxodium distichum Baldcypress TADI
THOC Thuja occidentalis American Arborvitae THOC

TIAM Tilia americana American Linden/BasswoodTIAM
ULPA Ulmus parvifolia Chinese or Lacebark Elm ULPA
ULPU Ulmus pumila Siberian Elm ULPU
Volunteer Inventory Training Manual A-2

EXERCISE 1. GIS Crossword Puzzle Solution
3.
G
1. 2. 2. 5.
L A T I T U D E G P S
O N O U
C F G R
6.
A O R V S
3.
T R D A T A E Y
4.
I M P L A Y E R S
5.
O M A P S H O T
N T I N E
6.
L I N K C G M
O I
7.
B O U N D A R Y T
8. 7.
Y U M T
D R
9.
S A T E L L I T E
E
ACROSS DOWN
degrees, north or south from 2. Data, news, facts; knowledge acquired
equator 3. Reference to descriptive science
2. Global Positioning System dealing with surface of the earth
3. Fact or figures to be 4. Distance east or west on earth’s
processed surface, measured as an arc of the
4. Distinct data sets equator between the meridian passing
5. Locations of features and through a particular place (usually
attributes Greenwich, England)
6. Connection between maps and 5. To examine for some specific purpose
data 6. Set of facts connected to form a unity
7. Line or thing marking a limit 7. A woody stemmed perennial plant
8. Delicious usually over 13’ tall and with a
9. Object rocketed into orbit single stem
around earth
B-1
EXERCISE 1. GIS Crossword Puzzle Solution
MATCHING REVIEW SOLUTIONS
A. Tree that is in healthy condition

CROWN
with few or no I
CLEANING
defects.
B. A tree that is typically weak wooded

K CONK
because of its rapid growth rate
C. Union between two branches that has

C WEAK FORK
included bark
D. Removing lower limbs of a tree to
provide clearance
A GOOD
for pedestrian or vehicular
traffic
E. Common measurement taken of a tree J CONSULT
F. Tree that is in a general state of

decline and may
E DBH
have severe insect, disease, or
mechanical injury.
G. Planting location that provides

adequate room for tree height and B SILVER MAPLE
root growth
H. Typical of a containerized grown
plant, it usually CROWN
L
deters basal growth and eventually REDUCTION
affects the tree’s health
I. Pruning out dead, diseased, split,
and broken G LAWN
branches > 2” diameter
J. A tree condition that requires
further evaluation by a certified F POOR
arborist.
K. A fruiting structure of a fungus,

visible on the lower trunk and H GIRDLING ROOT
indicative of internal decay
L. Removing selected branches or

reducing the overall mass, to clear
D CROWN RAISING
canopy away from structures or
overhead wires
B-2
Visual aids
Species Distribution
C-1
Visual aids
Balanced range of tree species.
OAK
PEAR
GINKGO ASH
MAPLE
C-2
Visual aids
Tree located in a tree pit within a sidewalk.
C-3
Visual aids
Tree located within feet of a curb or pavement

edge.
C-4
Visual aids
A map with roads.
C-5
Visual aids
A map with roads, buildings and water bodies.
C-6
Visual aids
A map with roads, buildings, water bodies and trees.
C-7
Visual aids
GIS Crossword Puzzle
C-8
Visual aids
GIS Crossword Puzzle Solution

ACROSS DOWN
degrees, north or south from 2. Data, news, facts; knowledge
equator acquired
2. Global Positioning System 3. Reference to descriptive science
3. Fact or figures to be processed dealing with surface of the earth
4. Distinct data sets 4. Distance east or west on earth’s
5. Locations of features and surface, measured as an arc of the
attributes equator between the meridian
6. Connection between maps and passing through a particular place
data (usually Greenwich, England)
7. Line or thing marking a limit 5. To examine for some specific
8. Delicious purpose
9. Object rocketed into orbit 6. Set of facts connected to form a
around earth unity
7. A woody stemmed perennial plant
usually over 13’ tall and with a
single stem
C-9
Visual aids
3.
G
1. 2. 2. 5.
L A T I T U D E G P S
O N O U
C F G R
6.
A O R V S
3.
T R D A T A E Y
4.
I M P L A Y E R S
5.
O M A P S H O T
N T I N E
6.
L I N K C G M
O I
7.
B O U N D A R Y T
8. 7.
Y U M T
D R
9.
S A T E L L I T E
C-10
Visual aids
Measuring DBH
C-11
Visual aids
4.5‘
Measure Here
4.5‘
M ea su r in g a t r ee
M ea su r in g a t r ee on wit h a g r owt h su ch
a slope a s a br a n ch a t 4 .5 ’
Tree on a slope.
Tree that branches at 4.5'.
C-12
Visual aids
GOOD FAIR POOR DEAD
Determining tree condition.
C-13
Visual aids
Cross-section of planting within sidewalk area (tree pit).
C-14
Visual aids
Overhead plan view of planting within sidewalk area (tree

pit).
C-15
Visual aids
Open Lawn Area

Road
Open
Lawn
Area
Road
Cross-section and plan views of tree planting site in open

lawn area.
C-16
Visual aids
.Cross-section of planting strip (also called a tree lawn).
C-17
Visual aids
Overhead plan view of planting strip (also called a tree

lawn).
C-18
Visual aids
Beneficial effects of pruning
C-19
Visual aids
CROWN CLEAN
CROWN
RAISE
CROWN
REDUCTION
Three pruning classes.
C-20
Visual aids
Recognizing potential problems in trees.
C-21
Visual aids
Cross sections of trunk decay.
Cavity Cavity
Cross Section of Trunk Cross Section of

(External Decay) Trunk
(Internal Decay)
C-22
Visual aids
Tools used by arborists to detect internal decay.
Shigo met er Rubber mallet
I ncrement bor er Dr ill & bit
C-23
Visual aids
Weak Forks
HEALTHY WEAK
C-24
Visual aids
Conks, cankers & fungi.
Conk Canker Fungi
C-25
Visual aids
Canopy density.
Fu ll, hea lt h y cr own wit h Dea d a r ea s in cr own

f ew dead br a nches in dica t e u nd er lyin g
pr oblem s
C-26
Visual aids
Balance
C-27
Visual aids
Matching Review Worksheet
M AT CHI NG REVI EW WORKSHEET M AT CHI NG REVI EW SOLUT I ONS
A. Tr ee t ha t is in hea lt hy condit ion wit h CROWN A. Tr ee t ha t is in hea lt hy condit ion wit h CROWN
f ew or no def ect s. CLEANI NG I
f ew or no def ect s. CLEANI NG
B. A t r ee t ha t is t ypica lly wea k wooded B. A t r ee t ha t is t ypica lly wea k wooded

CONK K CONK
beca u se of it s r a pid g r owt h r a t e beca u se of it s r a pid g r owt h r a t e
C. Union bet ween t wo br a nches t ha t ha s C. Union bet ween t wo br a nches t ha t ha s

WEAK FORK C WEAK FORK
inclu ded ba r k inclu ded ba r k
D . Rem oving lower lim bs of a t r ee t o pr ovide D . Rem oving lower lim bs of a t r ee t o pr ovide
clea r a nce f or pedest r ia n or vehicu la r A GOOD
clea r a nce f or pedest r ia n or vehicu la r GOOD
t r a f f ic
t r a f f ic
E. Com m on m ea su r em ent of a t r ee CONSULT E. Com m on m ea su r em ent t a ken of a t r ee J CONSULT
F. Tr ee t ha t is in a g ener a l st a t e of decline F. Tr ee t ha t is in a g ener a l st a t e of decline

a nd m a y ha ve sever e insect , disea se, or DBH a nd m a y ha ve sever e insect , disea se, or E DBH
m echa nica l inj u r y. m echa nica l inju r y.
G. Pla nt ing loca t ion t ha t pr ovides G. Pla nt ing loca t ion t ha t pr ovides
a dequ a t e r oom f or t r ee heig ht a nd SI LVER MAPLE a dequ a t e r oom f or t r ee heig ht a nd r oot B SI LVER MAPLE
r oot g r owt h g r owt h
H. Typica l of a cont a iner ized g r own pla nt , H. Typica l of a cont a iner ized g r own pla nt ,
CROWN CROWN
it u su a lly det er s ba sa l g r owt h a nd it u su a lly det er s ba sa l g r owt h a nd L
REDUCTI ON REDUCTI ON
event ua lly a f f ect s t he t r ee’s hea lt h event ua lly a f f ect s t he t r ee’s hea lt h
I . Pr u ning ou t dea d, disea sed, split , a nd . Pr u ning ou t dea d, disea sed, split , a nd
LAWN G LAWN
br oken br a nches > 2 ” dia m et er br oken br a nches > 2 ” dia m et er
J. A t r ee condit ion t ha t r equ ir es f u r t her . A t r ee condit ion t ha t r equ ir es f u r t her

POOR F POOR
eva lua t ion by a cer t if ied a r bor ist . eva lua t ion by a cer t if ied a r bor ist .
K. A f r u it ing st r u ct u r e of a f u ng u s, visible on K. A f r u it ing st r u ct u r e of a f u ng u s, visible

GI RDLI NG GI RDLI NG
t he lower t r u nk a nd indica t ive of int er na l on t he lower t r u nk a nd indica t ive of H
ROOT ROOT
deca y int er na l deca y
L. Rem oving select ed br a nches or
L. Rem oving select ed br a nches or r edu cing
CROWN r edu cing t he over a ll m a ss, t o clea r CROWN
t he over a ll m a ss, t o clea r ca nopy a wa y D
RAI SI NG ca nopy a wa y f r om st r u ct u r es or RAI SI NG
f r om st r u ct u r es or over hea d wir es
over hea d wir es
C-28
Visual aids
Growth habit or form.
ROUNDED VASE SHAPED
CONE SHAPED
WEEPI NG COLUM NAR
C-29
Visual aids
Leaves
LEAF T YPES
Simple Compound
Alt erna t e
LEAF
ARRANGEM ENTS
Opposit e
C-30
Visual aids
Types of compound leaves.
Fea t her-compound
Pinna t ely
Fa n-compound
Pa lma t ely
Twice-compound
Bi-pinna t ely
C-31
Visual aids
Leaf edges and vein patterns
LEAF
M ARGI NS
Ent ir e Ser r a t e
VEI N
PATTERNS
Pinna t e Pa lm a t e
C-32
Visual aids
Leaf shapes
C-33
Visual aids
Elements of block plans
Confirm the tree's

location; show
location on map
with (*) and I.D.
number;
Circle the (*) and

the I.D. number,
to confirm
selection.
C-34
Visual aids
Elements of block plans.
Catch basin
Pole
Street light
Property line
Fence or wall
Swimming pool
outline
Tennis court outline
C-35
Visual aids
About aerial photographs
C-36

Itree Manual

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

You might also like

Itree Manual

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Itree Manual

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Volunteer

USDA Forest Service ~ Northeast Area

NOTE TO INVENTORY ORGANIZERS: This letter may be

Dear Inventory Participant:

Welcome to the (YEAR) inventory of street trees in (NAME OF

Whether you are a participant or a workshop leader, we are confident

It is citizens such as you who make (NAME OF COMMUNITY) an even

(Name of MAYOR, PARK COMMISSIONER, TREE WARDEN, etc.)

Volunteer Inventory Training Manual

About this manual……………………………………………………………………….. 5

Module 1. TREE INVENTORIES: AN OVERVIEW……………………………. 7

Module 2. TREE CHARACTERISTICS…………………………………….……… 23

Module 3. TREE IDENTIFICATION………………………………………………. 45

Volunteer Inventory Training Manual

Module 5. INVENTORY DATA COLLECTION……………….………………... 62

Appendix A. Primary/Secondary Lists of 2-letter Species

Volunteer Inventory Training Manual

Acknowledgement Page(s) Goes Here

Volunteer Inventory Training Manual

The Volunteer Inventory Training Manual

The manual is divided into five sections,

The manual’s format maintains generous

There are a number of reasons to conduct Why do an inventory

• Profile the species, size and age

• Provide information about

• Summarize and analyze condition of

• Record information about

• Reveal planting needs

• Monitor planting success rates

• Identify potentially hazardous

• Set priorities for maintenance

• Develop maintenance schedules based

• Identify budget needs

• Create budget requests to municipal

• Establish a foundation for keeping

• Create public reports of trees

• Build public support for protecting

• Establish its dollar value

• Set benchmarks for future planning

Volunteer Inventory Training Manual 7

The decision of what type of inventory to Types of

A windshield survey is used to collect W i n d s h i e l d s u r v ey

• To inspect all elm trees for signs of

Volunteer Inventory Training Manual 8

A tree survey of a sample as small as ten Sampling method

Two keys to accuracy are essential:

• The sample must be strictly random

For example, if the community consists of

An inventory of natural areas is Inventory of par ks

In feature parks that are heavily used,

Volunteer Inventory Training Manual 9

A cover type survey uses aerial Cover type survey

A complete inventory is implemented to C o m p l e t e i n v e n to r y

• Genus and species

The inventory may also include

A periodic inventory should be updated on Periodic or

Volunteer Inventory Training Manual 10

Information collected in a complete T re e i n v e n t o r y

The results of a tree inventory may also