Executive Summary
Understanding the structure, function, and value of an urban forest is essential for making informed management decisions that enhance public health, safety, and environmental quality. Proactive urban forestry planning not only mitigates safety risks but also offers significant economic benefits to the community. By developing a strategic plan for tree maintenance and removals, the town can improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and avoid the need for urgent, reactive measures. A well-defined vision for future tree replacement, long-term aesthetics, age rotation, and community involvement ensures a more sustainable and cost-effective approach to urban forestry.
The Town of Winchester commissioned a comprehensive tree inventory and priority assessment for the street trees between 47 Main Street and 970 Main Street, including East End Park. Erik Christensen Horticultural Services, LLC (ECHS) was engaged to collect and analyze the tree inventory data, assessing species composition, tree condition, and providing maintenance recommendations. This report outlines the current health and management of the street tree population within the defined area, and offers recommendations for future plantings to replace removed trees and enhance
the overall urban forest.
This inventory was conducted in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Urban and Community Gardens Grant Program. Funding for this initiative was provided by the USDA Forest Service through the Urban and Community Forestry Planning Grant, which is administered by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).
The Town of Winchester commissioned a comprehensive tree inventory and priority assessment for the street trees between 47 Main Street and 970 Main Street, including East End Park. Erik Christensen Horticultural Services, LLC (ECHS) was engaged to collect and analyze the tree inventory data, assessing species composition, tree condition, and providing maintenance recommendations. This report outlines the current health and management of the street tree population within the defined area, and offers recommendations for future plantings to replace removed trees and enhance
the overall urban forest.
This inventory was conducted in accordance with the guidelines set forth by the Urban and Community Gardens Grant Program. Funding for this initiative was provided by the USDA Forest Service through the Urban and Community Forestry Planning Grant, which is administered by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP).
Final Report
Database Maps
In addition to the final report, two databases were created and geolocated in Google Earth for better visual reference and future synchronization with municipal asset management software. These databases surveyed various factors of each tree in the work area, such as the common name, diameter at breast height (DBH), height, crown diameter, condition, percent dead wood, priority (in terms of service needs), coordinates, survey dates, and any applicable notes and/or maintenance recommendations. These databases can be accessed via Google Earth and following the instructions below:
Step 1: Download the KMZ Files
- Find the two KMZ files in the Department of Public Works file directory. The file directory is located towards the bottom of the webpage. The files are named "Main Street Urban Tree Inventory - Priority Status Map" and "Main Street Urban Tree Inventory - Maintenance Type Map".
- Click on each file to download them to your computer.
- Locate the downloaded files in your Downloads folder.
Step 2: Open Google Earth in Your Browser
- Go to Google Earth in your browser on your desktop or laptop.
- Wait for the application to load.
Step 3: Import the KMZ Files
- Click the "+ New" button at the top left of your screen.
- Under Local KML files, select "Open local KML file" from the menu.
- Navigate to your Downloads folder and select the first KMZ file.
- Repeat the process to import the second KMZ file.
Step 4: Explore the Data
The KMZ file content will appear on the map. Use the on-screen controls to zoom, pan, and explore the details. Click on individual data points to see in-depth detail for that selected tree.
The KMZ file content will appear on the map. Use the on-screen controls to zoom, pan, and explore the details. Click on individual data points to see in-depth detail for that selected tree.
Correspondence
For any questions or additional information regarding this Main Street Urban Tree Inventory Report, please contact the Winchester Department of Public Works at DPWOffice@townofwinchester.org or (860)-379-4070.