CURRENT RESEARCH
PROJECTS
- “State of Urban Forestry in the South” Adobe PDF file
sponsored by the USDA Forest Service#
The goal of this project is to conduct research on municipal urban and community forestry programs in the 13 states in the Southern region to determine the state of urban forestry in the South. Information to be surveyed will include information on budgets and expenditures, planned and systematic management, strategic partnerships, urban forest health and safety, organizational structures, policies and regulations, and educational, research and outreach activities. Findings will be compared to previous surveys and US Census Bureau data to identify trends and emerging issues in the South. The information will be invaluable to the Southern region states to assist in efforts to update five-year strategic plans and develop regional urban forestry activities. In 2004, a report will be developed for the USDA Forest Service and articles will be prepared for journal publications.
- Control Strategies for Managing
Mistletoe in Urban Trees
This study seeks to develop reliable control techniques for leafy mistletoe (Phoradendron tomentosum) in elms (Ulmus spp.) Several conventional and unconventional techniques are being investigated including pruning methods, wound dressings, synthetic plant hormones, and herbicides. This study will provide valuable information about host-parasite interactions and potential methods to improve the health and aesthetics of urban trees. Results to date have been very promising, and a product is being developed with commercial potential.
- The Impact of Carbohydrates on Vitality of Urban Trees
sponsored by the USDA Forest Service
This study will investigate various methods for quantitatively evaluating and improving the health of urban trees. In order to accurately measure tree health and the impacts of research treatments on urban trees, it is necessary to determine the capacity (i.e. vigor) and ability (i.e. vitality) of trees to respond to the treatments. Indicators of tree vigor and vitality (e.g. tree ring widths, Shigometer readings, starch concentrations, etc.) will be studied to investigate correlations between tree growth factors and tree health. The main focus of this study will be to evaluate how carbohydrates can be successfully introduced into trees to improve vitality and health. This project will investigate the effects of various carbohydrates and introduction techniques on vitality of urban trees.
- Alternative control methods for
Ball Moss.
Throughout many parts of Texas and the South, ball moss (Tillandsia recurvata) is a perennial problem on many urban trees. Currently, there are very few products on the market that are labeled to control this pest. Those that exist potentially have high mammalian toxicities. Studies are underway to discover new compounds that are environmentally friendly yet effective at controlling this and other related pests. Preliminary results have been positive. At least two low-impact compounds have been discovered with excellent efficacy. Research continues in this area so that one or more products can be brought to market.
