36th Annual Student Research Conference
Understanding Kirksville’s Right-of-Way Trees
Iva L. Welbourne
Dr. Robert D. Sieg, Faculty Mentor
As a collaboration with the city of Kirksville, trees in the right of way between Normal and Illinois St. and Balimore and Main St. were mapped to gain understanding of the local urban forestry. Tree data was collected with GIS mapping software. For each tree, diameter breast height, height category, health, species and maintenance needs were recorded. This data was then analyzed to evaluate tree abundance, species diversity, and correlations between data collected and species. Ash trees were found to have poor tree health and higher than average maintenance needs due to the emerald ash borer. Two invasive species were identified through the survey, Callery pear and Tree of Heaven. Based on these findings and additional research, an annotated version of the city’s plantable trees list was presented to the city to improve tree species diversity, drought tolerance and lessen infrastructure damage.
Keywords: urban forestry, city planning, tree, invasive species, GIS, environment, climate change, kirksville
Topic(s):Biology
Environmental Studies
Communication
Presentation Type: Oral Presentation
Session: 307-3
Location: MG 2001
Time: 1:45