Assistant Professor
Urban & Community Foresrty

Texas A&M Universtiy
2135 Forest Science Dept.
College Station, TX 77843

Tel: (979) 458-1753
Fax: (979) 845-6049
E-mail: t-watson@tamu.edu

EDUCATION:

Ph.D. Plant Pathology,
Texas A&M University

B.S. Horticulture,
Texas A&M University

COURSES:

FRSC 420 Arboriculture

FRSC 421 Urban Forestry

FRSC 484 Professional Internship

FRSC 689 Special Topics in Arboriculture

FRSC 689 Special Topics in Urban Forestry

RESEARCH INTEREST:

In general, current research projects focus on urban forest management. More specifically, within an urban forest management framework, research projects are centered on urban forest health. Urban forestry is still in its infancy, and there remain numerous urban forest management issues that need to be defined and studied. Urban forest management is multifaceted and involves interactions and overlaps among many disciplines. Current studies seek to quantify and improve the health of the urban forests in our communities nationwide by developing new knowledge and technologies and by providing models that can be used to preserve and restore urban ecosystems. Current urban forestry research studies are outcome-based and concentrate on the more practical applications of research while striving to increase our knowledge of the basic science related to arboriculture and urban forestry. Several studies are being conducted to measure urban forest health and to investigate management techniques for urban tree-related problems. One study is a series of questionnaires designed to reveal urban forest structure and health in cities and communities throughout the South and the human, financial, and equipment resources used to manage these natural assets. Other studies are underway to develop innovative and environmentally friendly treatments to control mistletoe and ball moss. Two additional studies on carbohydrates and permeable pavements should provide information that will be invaluable in assisting professionals in their efforts to preserve large trees that typically succumb to the negative impacts of construction and urban sprawl. Click here for a list of current research projects.