Street Tree Assessment by a Survey Sampling Procedure    (View PDF)

F.A. Valentine, R.D. Westfall and P.D. Manion

Abstract: The structure and composition of street tree populations in Rochester and Syracuse, New York were characterized by survey sampling procedures. Over 7000 trees on 205 streets were censused. Systematic sampling was shown to provide unbiased estimates of the true census population parameters. It was used to identify trees of more frequently occurring species for measurement of 24 size and health traits and 8 physical environmental factors. All trees of less common species were measured. Ten species comprise over 90% of the older trees in each city, with Norway, silver and sugar maple, 75% of them. A much greater species diversity occurs among the younger trees, and none dominates this population. Preliminary comparisons of tree size and major health problems in maple populations in the two cities show few differences between the cities, but species differences are noted. Multivariate analyses now in progress should provide information on the relationship of factors of stress in the urban environment to the growth and health of street trees. The use of survey methods in urban tree management planning is discussed.

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https://doi.org/10.48044/jauf.1978.012