Frederick City residents are invited to participate in tree identification and inventory training sessions, the first stage of a larger urban tree canopy inventory for the City. Those residents who are trained in identification will be asked to assist neighbors in spring 2015 to inventory trees on private property. Trained volunteers will collect data about tree species and size in an effort to better understand the City’s tree diversity and help homeowners understand the intangible value of trees in their own yard and neighbors’ yards. Ultimately, homeowners will have the opportunity to learn the trees growing in their own yards and the value of those trees for air quality, water quality, and energy savings. In addition, the City will gain more detailed information about tree species diversity and how to better prioritize outreach and tree planting efforts.

 

Though the inventory will begin in spring 2015, the tree identification training will begin September 17. Neighborhood Advisory Council areas 6 and 9 will be inventoried during the first stage as a pilot and the fall training courses will take place in those neighborhoods to learn specific trees common to the area. No experience is needed to be part of the project and it is free to all residents. The five-week course runs on Wednesdays beginning September 17, 6-8 p.m. The first session will be at the Hood College campus. Residents can register via email to Jenny Willoughby jwilloughby@cityoffrederick.com.