Shade Tree Inventory and Management Plan

BETA conducted a comprehensive shade tree inventory and analysis for the Town of South Hadley, focusing on 4,500 publicly maintained street trees. Using GIS-based field data collection and mapping tools, each tree was spatially located and assessed for species, condition, tree diameter, canopy coverage, pest susceptibility, and potential infrastructure conflicts. The data was used to generate a series of heat maps and charts that highlighted areas of concern, such as clusters of trees in poor condition or limited species diversity, helping the Town prioritize future investments and maintenance.

An environmental benefits analysis was completed using iTree Eco software to quantify the ecological and economic contributions of the Town’s existing tree canopy. This included calculations for carbon sequestration, stormwater management, air quality improvement, and overall replacement value. The findings were incorporated into a detailed written report with visual outputs, providing key metrics necessary for developing an urban forestry plan.

BETA then developed a strategic Tree Planting Plan and a Five-Year Maintenance Plan. The planting plan outlined priority zones, recommended resilient native species, and included technical specifications for urban planting conditions. The maintenance plan established schedules for pruning, removal, and pest monitoring, supported by industry standards and a five-year budget projection. The entire system was integrated into the Town’s ArcGIS Online platform for easy access, mapping, and long-term urban forestry planning.