GIS assessment of Munich's urban forest structure for urban planning

A geographical information system (GIS) was developed and applied to assess the spatial pattern and environmental functions of the urban forest in the city of Munich. [UMN]

"A geographic information system (GIS) was developed and applied to assess the spatial pattern and environmental functions of the urban forest in the city of Munich. Urban land cover types were delineated as the underlying spatial units, characterized by physical and landuse attributes such as the percentage cover of built-on land and vegetation. The urban forest was described as the cover of trees and shrubs and the maximum age of trees. The survey was coupled with statistical databases and environmental data such as a habitat survey and thermal infrared photography. Trees and shrubs covered approximately 5,400 ha (13,300 ac) of land, or 18% of Munich’s surface area. The spatial pattern of the urban forest was closely linked with the general zoning of different land use and building density. The relationship between cover, size, and age of woody vegetation and the incidence of woodland indicator birds was used to assess the role of the urban forest for urban nature conservation, and potential habitat links of closely neighboring woodlands were identified by means of the GIS. Furthermore, it was shown that the urban forest can effectively reduce air temperatures during hot summer days. Specific urban forestry programs and quantitative targets were proposed for urban zones. These would increase the forest cover to 22% of the city’s surface area. An estimate for the overall costs for the establishment of the additional forest areas is given." [Abstract]