Predictive equations for crown diameter and trunk flare diameter at ground line for four urban landscape tree species in Minnesota

Abstract

Trees are an integral part of the urban landscape, from our backyards to lining our streets. Media outlets cover disease and invasive pest issues in urban forests, but there is little mention regarding infrastructure and planting challenges facing urban foresters. Research has shown urban trees have numerous benefits for society, many of which are not realized until trees have grown to a significant size. However, many trees are removed every year due to their negative impacts on urban infrastructure before their benefits are fully realized. Trunk flares and roots can lift sidewalks, and tree canopies often interfere with buildings or overhead utilities. This study's intent was to create biological growth models for two tree genera that are commonly used as street trees in Minnesota landscapes with the goal of reducing infrastructure damage as a result of conflicts with urban trees. The models will provide urban foresters and urban planners with a practical method for predicting trunk diameter at ground line and crown width in order to improve urban infrastructure planning that involves hardscapes and trees.