The Value of Observing Changes in Trees Over Time

Webinar Description:
Trees are valuable environmental and social assets – and a great topic area for research, as much is still not understood about the function and behaviour of our urban trees. Through revisiting trees from his digital photo collection, Dr. Duncan Slater has amassed many images of changes in trees over time – some spanning the 15 years of his tutorship at Myerscough College.
From observing trees over time, much can be learnt about the resilience of trees to wounding, pests and diseases. From revisiting development sites and urban locations, the success of planting schemes and species growth rates can be gauged. Although there is nothing new about 'Before' and 'After' images, the impact of them when learning about our urban trees can be profound – confounding expected outcomes and highlighting areas where our practices can be improved. These Trees over Time images are also a “visual feast” for an audience to enjoy.

Learning Objectives:
To illustrate the impact of damage to trees and factors that can affect a tree's recovery from wounding. To discuss issues with current urban forestry practice, tree planting and tree design through examples. To assess the development of tree structures over time to inform tree assessments.