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A MICROCOMPUTER-BASED TREE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM 1 by
| Content Provider | Semantic Scholar |
|---|---|
| Author | Lindhult, Mark S. |
| Copyright Year | 2006 |
| Abstract | A problem with many tree inventories is locating trees for future reference. This paper outlines the creation of a microcomputer-based tree management system which links two popular software packages, dBASE III and AutoCAD, to create an affordable and easy-to-use system for managing tree information. The major benefit of this approach is the ability to link tabular data collected about trees through an inventory (name, condition, dbh) with graphic data detailing the locations of trees possessing specific characteristics or maintenance needs. The paper describes the various components of the system, the methods used in setting up a graphic and tabular database, and the application of the system to downtown Amherst, Massachusetts. Resume. Un probleme relie a plusieurs inventaires d'arbres est de localiser les arbres pour s'y referer dans le futur. Cet article decrit un systeme informatise de gestion des arbres qui associe deux logiciels, dBase III et AutoCAD, pour creer un systeme de gestion de I'information sur les arbres economique et facile d'utilisation. Le principal benefice de cette approche est la capacite de relier des donnees tabulaires recueillies lors de I'inventaire (nom, etat de sante, DHP) avec des donnees graphiques detaillant la localisation des arbres presentant des caracteristiques ou des besoins d'entretien specifiques. Cet article decrit les diverses composantes du systeme, les methodes utilisees pour etablir la banque de donnees graphiques et tabulaires, et les applications du systeme au centreville d'Amherst, Massachusetts. There is a need for urban foresters to have current information about the status of their trees so that they can make informed management decisions. Tree inventory systems are the best way of gathering information about the condition of trees and their maintenance needs (1), and the computer is an invaluable tool for implementing these systems (2). Computerized tree inventory systems have been available for many years, typically residing on minior mainframe computers. In recent years they have migrated down to the microcomputer level (3). To date, each level of computerization has used the same basic approach for the generation and management of tree information. A tree inventory is performed to establish a database of information which is entered into a computer. This database (tabular data) is basically a list of plants and their relevant factors, such as name, condition, and diameter at breast height (dbh). A database management system is then used to allow users to query the database to identify trees that have specific characteristics. The query's results may be printed out in a report form which lists the trees that meet the specified criteria and data relevant to the query. A problem which has hampered all tree inventories is locating the trees for future reference (4). There are various approaches to this which range from a block number or coordinate reference to a street address. However, each of these techniques requires the urban forester to reference a map and locate each individual tree, a long and tedious process. After using the computer to quickly search for all trees meeting specific characteristics, it is time consuming to then perform the task of locating the trees by hand. The logical extension to these systems is to integrate spatial data (the trees' location) with tabular data (information about the trees) to provide users with a graphic display of database reports. Recent developments in microcomputer hardware, improved graphics and increased memory capabilities, and advances in software have provided the opportunity for this integration to occur. This paper will illustrate the development of a tree management system that uses a microcomputer to integrate graphic information with the tree database. Tree Management Systems The term management is used to describe the system rather than inventory for a very basic reason. An inventory is simply a list of trees and their characteristics. The system described in this paper allows the urban forester to manage tree information and, as a result, to better manage the Presented at the Annual Tree Wardens, Arborists, and Utilities Conference in Chicopee, Massachusetts, March 1987. Journal of Arboriculture 13 (12): December 1987 305 trees. Once information is entered into the computer, it can be manipulated in a large variety of ways. To develop a useful tree management system, it is first necessary to explore and understand the urban forester's needs. The urban forester is responsible for a multitude of tasks, which include: locating trees that need replacement; identifying trees that have particular management need; preparing budgets, reports, and work orders; and answering queries by the general public. Performing these tasks requires a great deal of information. To manipulate this information in a timely fashion requires the use of the computer. Based upon the above tasks, the general criteria for the development of a microcomputer-based system are as follows: 1. Tabular database all tree information (attributes) necessary for management decisions, such as name, condition, management needs, and work priority. 2. Graphic (spatial) data map information indicating the exact location of each tree in relationship to streets, buildings, and other major features which is linked to the tabular data. 3. Database management capabilities the ability to query the database to find out what trees have specific characteristics. 4. Report and map generation a mechanism for outputting written reports, work orders, and location maps. In addition, the system must be easy to use and affordable. A major consideration for urban foresters, whose municipal budgets are often limited, was to develop a system with the most power for the least cost. To achieve all of the above specifications, many separate components are necessary. To reduce the development time and expense, existing general purpose software packages were used: AutoCAD for creating the graphic database of streets, buildings, and trees; and dBase III for entering and manipulating the tree's tabular data. Some custom programming was also required to link these two programs together. The hardware and software components of the prototype system cost approximately $12,000. This includes AutoCAD, dBASE III, a customized translation program, MS-DOS computer (80286 based machine), enhanced graphics adapter (EGA) graphics board, high resolution color monitor, 24"x36" digitizer, D size plotter, and dot matrix printer. Work Procedure The whole procedure for the development of this tree management system can be outlined as follows: 1. Inventory trees. 2. Create digital database of streets and buildings in inventory area. 3. Enter each tree's location from the map and all attributes from the inventory into AutoCAD. 4. Move attribute data from AutoCAD into dBASE III. 5. Query data for trees meeting specific criteria using dBASE. eg. Show all trees that must be worked on in the next 6 months and have a DBH greater than 24". 6. Print out the results of the query in report form. 7. Convert results of query into AutoCAD format (this is the custom program). 8. Display the trees that meet the criteria queried in dBASE using AutoCAD. 9. Plot the map using AutoCAD. 10. Hand the map and report with a description of the trees, their location, and the work to be done to the crew foreman. The following diagram illustrates this procedure |
| File Format | PDF HTM / HTML |
| Alternate Webpage(s) | http://auf.isa-arbor.com/request.asp?ArticleID=2186&JournalID=1&Type=2 |
| Language | English |
| Access Restriction | Open |
| Content Type | Text |
| Resource Type | Article |
