20
An ideal size distribution would contain more large-diameter trees and fewer young trees. The large percentage of young trees also represents a maintenance challenge, as problems with health or structure are best addressed when a tree is young.
RECOMMENDATION: Focus efforts to identify, protect, and maintain large-diameter trees, which are relatively rare, but have tremendous value. Ensure that the large number of young trees are receiving necessary care to correct problems when they can be addressed quickly and inexpensively.
tree health condition
During the 2012 inventory, the health and structure of each living tree were assessed, and the tree given one of four condition ratings; “good”, “fair”, “poor”, or “very poor” (Figure 10). Most of the town’s street trees are in “good” condition, meaning that they have no health or structural problems that would reduce their value to less than 75% of a tree in perfect condition. They may have some minor issues with their foliage, stems, or roots, but are structurally sound. With neglect, however, these trees can degenerate into “fair” or “poor” health in a matter of years.
FIGURE 10: Overall Condition of Wake Forest’s Street Trees
VERY POOR 1%
POOR 7%
FAIR 20%
GOOD 72%
Approximately 20% of the street trees are in “fair” con- dition, meaning their health or structural integrity is be- tween 50% and 75% of a tree in perfect condition. With effort, these trees could become “good” trees, but without effort, they are likely to decline into “poor” condition. 8% of trees are in “poor” or “very poor” condition, indicating major health or structural prob- lems that can lead to death or structural failure. Trees in these conditions are likely to require removal in the near future, and recovery is only possible with sustained effort. It should be pointed out that the large number of “good” trees likely reflects the recent planting of these trees, and does not mean that the trees do not require immediate attention. The major- ity of trees observed in this inventory showed signs of significant issues that require correction, such as buried root collars, structural pruning needs, stakes, pests, or disease. Trees can have significant energy reserves that are depleted by stress, and decline rapidly once these reserves are exhausted. Without attention, many of the town’s street trees will decline in health.
Tree Condition by Species Tree condition varies significantly between species, indicating species that should probably be avoided (Table 6). Less than half of red and Freeman maples are in good condition. Ornamental cherries are affect- ed by a variety of defoliators and diseases.
RECOMMENDATION: Identify species that are performing poorly, and remove them from the official planting list. Avoid planting large numbers of trees that do not have a proven record of success, and expand the use of uncommon species that perform well.
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online