Volunteers needed to help map Exeter's tree canopy

Volunteers are being sought to help map Exeter’s tree canopy.

Exeter has higher than average tree coverage across the city. That figure was 24.5% when last mapped in 2006.

Thirteen years later and it is reckoned that coverage has gone down slightly and is now threatened by new pests and diseases, as well as development and climate change.

That’s why the City Council is working closely with Treeconomics based at the University to properly map Exeter’s current tree canopy.

In order for Treeconomics to carry out the survey, they are looking for volunteers to help them with the surveying.

Cllr David Harvey, Lead Councillor for Environment and City Management, said: “We are passionate about trees in Exeter and that’s why we have teamed up with Treeconomics, to map out our tree canopy and safeguard our trees for years to come.

“We know that with diseases like Ash Dieback, trees face an uncertain future. However we can do so much to ensure that Exeter stays green and healthy but we need help and that’s where the public fit in.”

Volunteers who get involved with the project will be given full training and equipment to go about their task of mapping the city’s tree canopy.

“Our ultimate aim is to create a sustainable Urban Forest which benefits the local economy,” said Danielle Hill, of Treeconomics.

“In order to effectively manage, we need to understand what we have. The results from this study will give us a greater knowledge of the composition and the value of our city’s trees,” she added.

To find out more and get involved in the initiative, contact Danielle by email: Danielle.treeconomics.co.uk or call 01392 248170. Training will take place on 3 July.