Planning and managing vegetation in urban area is complex, yet it can be seamlessly done using computerized tree inventory and Geographic Information System (GIS).

In order to manage the urban forest it is vital to know and understand the resource. It is the structure of the urban forest that provides the basis for its functions and subsequently its value as a resource. It has been stressed that inventories are an important component in the management of the urban forest.

As such urban tree inventory would be the first step in planning and managing the urban forest for its functions and value in creating a balanced environment. The management of any resource needs to begin with an inventory of that resource. Planning and managing vegetation in urban area is complex, yet it can be seamlessly done using computerized tree inventory and Geographic Information System (GIS).

GIS may enhance the tree inventory system with the application of mobile -based QR code technology, which could provide effective management of inventory elements, tree in particular, in urban areas to avoid project budget cutback, improve the efficiency of an existing program and educate and provide information to the public.

GIS is able to store, manipulate, analyse and communicate between user and data, while mobile-based QR codes technology can be read by an imaging device (such as a camera) and processed using Reed-Solomon error correction until the image can be appropriately interpreted about the tree; data is then extracted from tree patterns present in both horizontal and vertical component of the image.

Urban park inventory and diversity assessments are essential to understand tree population structures and the plant diversity status of the park and provide information for biodiversity recovery planning. Unfortunately, the vast majority of park in developing countries lack inventory records and detection data. Consequently the tree population structure and diversity status of these parks are often insufficient for management (Appiah, 2013).

The aim of the study is to design and develop a proposed system that can help the agency in managing the inventory of tree. The system could allow for the creation and maintenance of the inventories with attributes for each item. Botanical names and other attributes are included, and digital photo can be incubated with each item.

The objectives of this invention are to create a systematic Geodatabase of urban tree. It is also to develop and design, 3D urban tree inventory systems for management. Lastly, it is to create digital matrix bar codes for urban tree identification and classification. Using GIS as tools may help in managing system as well as increasing the ease of the park management process.

This system can replace the conventional method for smart management were computerized and systematic approach of database system will accelerate the tree assessment. The novelty of this invention is it can help improve the existing systems in conveying information globally. The animation can spread the uniqueness of the park and also the information about the park which indirectly help in planning.

The QR code gives a better interpretation where it will enhance the visitor experience. This idea addresses the issue of the vast majority of forests or Public Park in a developing country which lacks a data inventory. The invention benefits Park Manager, Local Authority and Landscape Architect.



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The above post is reprinted from materials provided by Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). Note: Materials may be edited for content and length.

Article source: Science daily