A Combined Methods of Senile Trees Inventory in Sustainable Urban Greenery Management on the Example of the City of Sandomierz (Poland)

Abstract

The sustainable management of urban greenery consists, among others, of the inventory, valuation, and protection of trees of monumental size. This article presents the results of the inspection of 13 large trees growing in the city of Sandomierz, located in south-eastern Poland. The examined specimens belong to five species: Norway maple (Acer platanoides L.), common ash (Fraxinus excelsior L.), white poplar (Populus alba L.), English oak (Quercus robur L.), and small-leaved lime (Tilia cordata Mill.). The health condition of the trees was assessed using acoustic and electrical tomography, as well as chlorophyll fluorescence tests. Diagnostics employing sound waves and electrical resistivity were crucial in assessing tree health. The data based on chlorophyll fluorescence confirmed the results obtained during tomographic examinations. It was an innovative combination of three non-invasive methods of examining the health condition of trees and their valuation. Economic valuation allows us to reduce to common denominator issues that are often difficult to decide due to different perspectives—expressing the economic value of trees. Calculating the value of trees allowed us to show the city’s inhabitants the value of trees that are of monumental size. Thanks to the cooperation of scientists with the city authorities, an economic plan for trees of monumental size was created, distinguished by an individualized and holistic approach to each specimen covered by the study. The database prepared has a chance to become an effective management instrument used by environmental protection authorities and a source of knowledge and education for the city’s inhabitants.

Acoustic Tomography as a Supporting Tool in the Sustainable Management of Historic Greenery: Example of the Church Garden in Horostyta (Poland)

“…Of the methods used, acoustic tomography proved to be the most effective tool for detecting the distribution of internal tissues, being the most accurate in locating anomalies and estimating their dimensions and shapes and being the least invasive [54,55]. Compared to other methods, examination by acoustic waves is efficient even in the early stages of wood decay [56,57]. Gilbert and Smiley (2004) estimated that the average accuracy of the device was 89% [29].…”