BMP - Tree Inventories - 9

Justified Budgets

Up-to-date tree inventories provide the data needed to project specific levels
of funding that will be necessary for tree maintenance and planting over a
multi-year period. With accurate data, the tasks and associated costs can be
clearly spelled out and supported by detailed lists. An inventory may report a
monetary value and benefit-cost ratio for the urban forest. Finally, inventory
information can be used to compare the cost of implementing different future
strategies, as well as provide a solid basis for grant applications.

Comprehensive Planting Plans

Because inventories can capture available planting sites, as well as information on existing species diversity, new plantings and replacement plantings
can be planned efficiently. Reliable information about species distribution
and stocking rate (ratio of filled to available sites) is critical to planning for
a quality future urban forest. Diversifying species selections can result in a
more resilient future population.

Improved Pest Response

Inventory data make it easier to ascertain the presence and extent of an
existing or potential threat from insects or disease to the urban forest. Such
information allows appropriate plans and responses to be made.

Documented Actions

Tree managers are frequently asked to provide documentation of their actions.
This documentation can range from work accomplished to a contractor's
costs per tree, from a removal list to a particular service request. During
litigation involving a tree, inventory data can document whether action has
occurred and if policy has been implemented. Much time and frustration can
be spared through the use of a good inventory and data management package
for documentation.

Environmental Benefits

Trees provide a wide range of environmental benefits. The urban forest
manager is often asked to quantify and document these benefits. Tree inventory data can be used to calculate the environmental benefits returned to the
community, supplying a powerful tool to a tree manager. The USDA Forest
Service offers a free software package called i-Tree that is designed to provide
this and other information (see sidebar on page 10).

BMP - Tree Inventories

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of BMP - Tree Inventories