The Use of Volunteer Initiatives in Conducting Urban Forest Resources Inventories

"The accuracy and validity of urban forest resource data collected by trained volunteers were established, using an actual case study in Brookline, Massachusetts. Results indicate that the data collected by trained volunteers are valid, and the accuracy compares favorably with levels found among a control group of certified arborists. Indirect benefits associated with this type of volunteer effort include the development of a more informed urban forest constituency, increased environmental awareness, an increased political voice, and an improved quality of life for urban residents. The cost of utilizing community volunteers to conduct urban forest inventories is competitive with similar programs conducted by professional arborists."