Woody plants survey: why, for whom, and when?
What is a woody plants survey?
A woody plants survey is a preliminary study for design, providing an overview of the species, dimensions (diameter at breast height, crown spread, crown diameter, height, etc.), health condition (growth characteristics, description and severity of damage, and recommendations for further action), ornamental value, dendrological uniqueness, ecological importance, cultural, and historical significance of the woody plants in the area being studied. It describes the greenery of the area based on its value, functionality, and significance, offering recommendations and guidelines for the preservation, maintenance, and removal of vegetation.
Why is a woody plants survey necessary?
Typically, the need for woody plants survey is a requirement by the local government. This survey is crucial before planning construction activities in areas where woody plants grow. For instance, it is required before the processing of detailed plans, building permits, construction notices, and excavation works. This means the survey is essential for the design phase of structures (including utility networks), building extensions, and reconstruction projects. Based on the survey, informed and justified decisions can be made regarding the placement of buildings and utility networks and the preservation, maintenance, and removal of existing trees.
Who needs a woody plants survey?
The survey provides essential information for designers to make informed and justified decisions about the placement of buildings and utility networks, as well as the preservation, maintenance, and removal of existing trees.
When is a woody plants survey necessary?
Since the survey is a preliminary study for design, it is advisable to conduct it before the design phase begins. However, an up-to-date topo-geodetic base plan showing all woody plants within the study area is required. If there are no woody plants in the project area and in the surrounding area, the study is not necessary.
How is a woody plants survey conducted?
The survey consists of two parts: fieldwork and putting the report together. During the fieldwork, the woody plants are measured (species identified, necessary parameters measured), and notes are taken regarding their health condition and various values. The necessary parameters for each object depend on the chosen methodology. It is common to measure the diameter at breast height and crown spread, and sometimes the height is also measured.
The documentation compiles all the information collected during the fieldwork into a single report, which includes a written explanation, a list of inventoried objects, and a drawing. The written explanation provides a description of the study area; an overview of the health condition, ornamental value, dendrological uniqueness, ecological importance, cultural and historical significance, protected objects, and if relevant, then description of invasive alien species; and recommendations for the preservation, maintenance, and removal of woody plants. Depending on the methodology used, trees are inventoried individually as single trees; sometimes it is justified to survey woody plants in groups when detailed information is not required; sometimes it is optimal to use both inventory methods in different parts of the property.
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