We’ve got big news! PlanIT Geo has joined Waverock Software. The demand for green space in cities is soaring due to unprecedented federal investment, rising temperatures, and development-driven deforestation. Waverock’s growth investment and long-term access to capital and resources will amplify our ability to meet this demand with smarter, more equitable green asset management. We’re thrilled to have found a partner who matches our values and believes in our mission to map a greener future.
Food Forests are Bringing Shade and Sustenance to US Cities
Nonprofits, like Boston Food Forest Coalition, are turning vacant lots into edible ecosystems, with food-bearing trees, shrubs, and vines. Unlike community gardens, food forests are designed to mimic nature, with multiple vertical layers. They cool the land, protect from erosion, increase wildlife habitat, and provide hyper-local, fresh food for surrounding residents.
The City of Orlando is using TreePlotter CANOPY to improve their post-storm debris clean up. “Our old method was to send people out looking for debris in pickup trucks,” said Brad Radecki, Inventory Coordinator for City of Orlando, “ but Hurricane Ian made it clear we needed a targeted plan. We used CANOPY to filter the neighborhoods with the highest canopy density and set priorities for which areas to visit first after a storm.”
How Trees Can Play a Life-Saving Role in Our Struggle Against Extreme Weather
In January, a study in the world’s leading medical journal pointed out there is a natural resource capable of helping to lessen the impact of a changing climate and keep people safe: trees. Extreme weather can't always be stopped, but we can choose to be intentional in preparing and protecting our communities. More on the study and the power of trees from Dan Lambe, CEO of the Arbor Day Foundation
How Accurate Tree Canopy Data Got Faster and More Affordable
On-Demand Webinar
Tree canopy data leapt into a new frontier in 2021. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) helped tree canopy data reach new heights of accessibility, expediency, and accuracy. This presentation will showcase tree canopy data methods and how it integrates with TreePlotter CANOPY. The next generation of tree canopy data is here, learn what it can do for your urban forest.
This webinar brings together global perspectives on urban tree canopy assessments to find unique approaches and common ground. Hosts Ian Hanou and Russell Horsey will moderate a conversation with a panel of urban forestry experts from the United Kingdom, United States, and the Netherlands to discuss how canopy data is helping communities around the world reach their greening goals.
With unprecedented federal investment on the way, there is a lot of work to do. PlanIT Geo is growing to match the momentum of this movement. We know YOU know some of the best talent in our industry. Please share these opportunities with anyone who might be interested.
Citizen science in action: Volunteers with temperature sensors mounted on cars and bikes are precisely mapping urban heat islands, helping cities address extreme heat in neighborhoods at greatest risk. This model, pioneered in Richmond, Virginia in 2017, has now been conducted in over 60 communities, with projects continuing this year.
Plant for the Future: Climate Change and Tree Selection
As urban forestry experts, we must do our best to ensure the species we recommend for planting today can live long, healthy lives in the harsh conditions of the urban environment, even as the climate changes. This blog from PlanIT Geo's Alex Hancock outlines a case study for cities to "plant for the future".
This is a companion blog to the first episode of the Internet of Nature Podcast, expanding on the conversation of Dr. Nadina Galle and Ian Hanou. Give it a read to get Ian’s take on the state of urban forestry in 2023, common challenges, and an introduction to the key topics covered in future episodes.
Dendrochronology, the science of dating tree rings, has been used at archeological sites all over the world to build a record that goes back 13,000 years! Climate conditions, volcanic eruptions, insect infestations, and the decline of past civilizations can also be tracked through the use of tree-ring dating.
The Peculiar Relationship Between City Trees and Medieval Battle
Need to restock on urban forest anecdotes? This globe-trotting look back on urban forestry's origin has got you covered. From Amsterdam to Paris, Savannah to Shanghai, the history of war and trends of recreation have molded urban canopies around the world.
Capital Asset Value for Amenity Trees (CAVAT), a tree valuation method widely adopted in the United Kingdom, has been revamped. After extensive review and testing with practitioners, the guide has been revised with new steps to promote objectivity in tree assessments.
In 2019, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources partnered with Bob Ross Inc. to create the "Happy Little Trees" program, which raises awareness of tree planting and forest protection in state parks. This partnership has engaged hundreds of volunteers to plant trees in state parks, as well as raise funds and awareness for "happy little trees" throughout Michigan.
PlanIT Geo's own Elizabeth Schulte and Chris Peiffer were members of the graduating cohort of the Green Communities Leadership Institute (GCLI) this year. GCLI brings together a diverse group of community leaders to develop next-level leadership and collaboration skills in support of lasting positive impacts on environmental and community health. They both heartily recommended the experience!
