Send us a textSummaryThis conversation explores the intricate politics surrounding street trees, focusing on their historical significance, community engagement, and the ongoing challenges in urban forestry. Camilla Allen, a landscape architect and environmental historian, discusses the Sheffield street tree crisis, the role of trees as living memorials, and the importance of public advocacy and education in tree management. The dialogue emphasizes the need for collaboration between professionals and communities to ensure the sustainable future of urban trees. Relevant papers, as Camilla touched on regarding the sycamore gap, are here Crow, Jim ‘The tale of a tree: An archaeological history of Sycamore Gap’, Current Archaeology, December 2023Ferguson, Bruce K. ‘Symbolic meanings of ordinary city streets and their trees’ Frontiers in Psychology 2023Hanscam, Emily and Holtorf, Cornelius ‘Rooted in the Future, A cultural ecology of the Sycamore Gap Tree’ Current Archaeology, December 2023.Chapters Rough Timings00:00 Introduction to the Politics of Street Trees02:46 Sheffield's Street Tree Crisis05:53 Historical Perspectives on Tree Planting09:02 The Multifaceted Role of Trees11:49 Living Memorials and Their Significance18:00 The Politics of Tree Management23:58 Community Engagement and Tree Advocacy29:50 Cultural Significance of Trees36:02 The Future of Street Trees41:50 The Charter for Street TreesFor more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textIn this conversation, Sharon interviews Jaroslav Kolarik, CEO of SafeTrees and member of the Arboriculture Academy in the Czech Republic. They discuss the role of the European Arboriculture Council (EAC) in promoting arboriculture in Europe and the certification programs offered by the EAC. They also talk about the importance of certification for arborists and the challenges of raising awareness and understanding of arboriculture among the general public. They touch on the development of European Arboriculture Standards and the upcoming conference in Prague. They also discuss the tree assessment and tree value calculation standards and the need for a unified approach to tree care. The conversation discusses the importance of valuing trees and the challenges in calculating their value. It emphasizes the need to consider the eco-benefits, property value, replacement value, wildlife value, and ecosystem value of trees. The conversation also touches on the role of municipalities in decision-making and the irreplaceable nature of trees. The interviewee highlights the importance of proper tree assessment and the need to consider the age structure, species structure, and maintenance history of trees. The conversation also explores the concept of canopy cover and the challenges of tree planting and aftercare. The interviewee shares insights into the arboricultural scene in the Czech Republic, including the strict legislation around tree felling and the growing number of arborists, including women, in the industry. The interview concludes with a discussion on the ambition of the European Arboricultural Council to spread the standards and promote tree care at a higher level.Sound Bites"EAC was created to increase the level of Arboriculture in Europe and the first products were certification programs, European tree worker and European tree technician.""Certification is necessary to choose qualified companies or individuals for tree care work, especially when larger financial amounts are invested.""The certification for veteran tree specialist is a jewel among arboriculture qualifications, focusing on the care of irreplaceable old trees and the ecosystems connected to them.""In our cities, mostly in the cities in southern part of Europe without trees we are not going to survive really in the cities.""Just imagine that if we just consider the tree being represented only by let's say some replacement value but the replacement itself is going to happen within 60 years.""The first questions should not be about the value, about the money because that's only the last resort how to express the value of the trees."Chapters00:00Introduction and Background04:06Promoting Arboriculture in Europe: The Role of the European Arboriculture Council06:28The Importance of Certification for Arborists12:09Developing European Arboriculture Standards19:26Understanding Tree Assessment25:32Valuing Trees Beyond Replacement Cost27:18Valuing Trees: Eco-Benefits and Property Value28:47Challenges in Tree Valuation and Replacement Value31:13Considerations for Proper Tree Assessment32:43Canopy Cover: Visualizing Tree Presence45:14Challenges and Best Practices in Tree Planting and Aftercare50:28The Growing Arboricultural Scene and Diversity in the Czech Republic53:11Spreading Tree Care Standards Across EuropeFor more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textBuilt and natural environments are often referred to independently, but in reality, comprise two defined parts of one environment. Within the environment, trees and buildings exist, though not always in equal relationships. Where development is proposed, taking precedence over trees, an imbalance between natural and built environments may occur. This could be the result of tree- building conflict often resulting in tree removal. Where architects are creators of the built environment, there is a professional responsibility to consider the wider environmental context impacted by development and also the contributing benefit that trees offer to the environment.In this episode, Sharon interviews Dr. Gary Wynn, an innovative architect and arboriculturalist. Gary shares his journey of becoming an arboriculturalist and the lack of tree knowledge among architects. He discusses his research on the relationship between trees and buildings and the need for architects to have arboricultural knowledge. Gary also talks about his architectural philosophy, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the importance of seeing the world as a connected system. He shares a case study of a building he designed near trees and the engineering considerations involved. The conversation ends with a discussion on the tension between the benefits of trees and the challenges they pose in urban areas. Dr. Gary Winn discusses the successful relationship between trees and buildings, highlighting the benefits, challenges, and innovative design solutions. He emphasizes the need for architects and arboriculturists to collaborate and integrate tree considerations into the design process. Dr. Winn shares his research findings, which show that architects often lack knowledge about trees and perceive them as obstacles. However, through workshops and practical exercises, architects can learn to prioritize the tree-building relationship and create innovative designs that incorporate trees. He also discusses the importance of public perception, policy changes, and the role of well-being in the tree-building relationship. Link to the Invisible House Youtube video promoFor more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textIn this conversation, Jules Acton discusses her book 'Oaklore' and her journey into the world of nature conservation. She shares her experiences of visiting a nature reserve for the first time and the barriers people may face when trying to engage with nature. Jules emphasizes the importance of creating openings and ways for people to connect with nature. She also talks about her childhood experiences with nature, including a special apple tree in her garden. Jules explores the world of oak trees, including the birds and insects that depend on them. She shares her journey of learning bird songs and the joy of discovering new species. Jules also discusses the cultural significance of oak trees, such as the use of oak gall ink and the celebration of Oak Apple Day. She highlights the importance of awe and shared experiences in connecting with nature. Jules recounts her experiences on a moth night and the beauty of moths. She also explores the world of beetles and the importance of dead wood in supporting their habitats. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the Medusa Oak and the quirks of quercuses. In this part of the conversation, Jules Acton and Sharon discuss various topics related to oak trees and their conservation. They talk about the work of the Woodland Trust and the RSPB in managing and preserving oak trees. They also discuss the concept of veteranization, which involves aging trees prematurely to create habitat for specialized species. They touch on the folklore and magic associated with oak trees, including the myth of summoning the devil by dancing around a certain oak tree. They also explore the mutualistic relationship between trees and fungi, highlighting the importance of fungi in providing nutrients and water to trees. They discuss the challenges of acute oak decline and the need for better decision-making and infrastructure planning to protect and preserve oak trees. They emphasize the importance of creating space for nature and promoting connectivity in urban environments. Jules encourages listeners to join conservation organizations and get involved in the preservation of oak trees and nature in general.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textIn this episode, Sharon and Callum discuss the use of AI and technology in the arboriculture industry. Callum explains that AI has been around for decades and has been used in various applications, such as loan applications and predictive text. In the forestry industry, AI has been used for mapping deforestation and monitoring pests and diseases. Callum emphasizes the importance of training AI models to get the desired output and highlights the need for social responsibility in shaping AI. He also shares how he uses AI in his daily work as an arboriculture consultant, including keyword research, report writing, and pricing jobs. In this part of the conversation, Callum discusses the use of Chat GPT, photogrammetry, and virtual reality (VR) in arboriculture. He explains how Chat GPT can assist in generating reports and providing structure, while still requiring human input for analysis and assessment. Callum also highlights the ethical concerns of making GPT publicly accessible. He then delves into the concept of photogrammetry, explaining how it works and the benefits of using apps like Polycam to create 3D models of trees. He emphasizes the importance of hosting these models on online platforms for easy access. Callum then explores the potential of VR and augmented reality (AR) in arboriculture, particularly in training and education. He discusses the immersive experience of VR and its ability to improve knowledge retention. Lastly, Callum touches on the limitations and benefits of using drones for tree surveys, including the accurate mapping of trees in the absence of graphical surveys. Drones equipped with multispectral cameras can be used for NDVI (Normalised Difference Vegetation Index) to identify stressed or low vitality trees. They are valuable for ash dieback surveys, identifying trees in distress, and conducting feasibility studies. Drones can also be used for creating 3D models of sites, providing better context than traditional maps. Leveraging social media, particularly platforms like TikTok, can help attract younger people to the industry. Authentic and engaging content that adds value is key. AI and apps have the potential to scan trees and identify defects, as well as generate detailed weather forecasts for the arboricultural industry. Immersive videos and virtual reality can be used to showcase different aspects of the industry and attract young talent.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textIn this bonus episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon discusses the revision of the British standard for trees and construction, BS 5837. She interviews Howard Booth, the chair of the committee proposing the changes, to discuss the main updates. The changes include new process flow charts, a new categorization method, adjustments to root protection areas, and the inclusion of canopy cover assessments. The goal of these changes is to ensure better tree care and development practices. The episode provides valuable insights into the proposed revisions and their implications. The conversation explores various parameters and considerations for tree growth, including species, form, site conditions, and pruning requirements. The British standard for tree retention and the importance of tree surveys conducted by arboriculturalists are discussed. The conversation also touches on the proposed changes in the British standard for tree surveys (BS 5837) and the inclusion of canopy cover assessments. The revision introduces new plans, such as the Arboricultural Impact Plan and the Constraints and Opportunities Plan. The categorization of trees is expanded to include a new category for veteran trees (Category V). Root protection areas for veteran trees are set to increase, and dead trees will also have a level of protection. The consultation process for the revision is highlighted, encouraging listeners to participate and provide feedback.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textThe conversation explores the complexities and challenges of implementing biodiversity net gain (BNG) in the UK. The discussion covers topics such as tree replacement, the definition of veteran trees, the role of arboriculturalists in BNG assessments, the emphasis on planting native trees, the mitigation of tree group losses, and the need for additional protection for habitats like peat soils. The conversation also touches on the importance of monitoring and compliance in ensuring the success of BNG projects.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textDr. Mark Johnston, MBE, shares his life story and his journey in the field of urban forestry. From his childhood in London to his adventures as a tree surgeon and his work as a tree officer, he has witnessed the evolution of urban forestry. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the equal distribution of trees in urban areas. After working at Kew Gardens and teaching at Askham Bryan College, he eventually became the head of arboriculture at Merrist Wood College. In this conversation, Mark Johnston discusses his career in arboriculture and urban forestry. He shares his experiences working on various projects, including the Forest of London and the Community Forests Initiative. Mark also talks about the importance of higher education in arboriculture and the challenges he faced in promoting it. He emphasizes the need for a broader palette of tree species in urban areas and criticizes the focus on native species. Mark also discusses his involvement in organizing the Trees, People, and the Built Environment conferences and his passion for teaching and inspiring others in the field. His new book, 'Planting Ideas In The Urban Forest' is available here from his official website.More books by Mark include:-Trees in Towns II Trees, People and the Built Environment (2011)Trees, People and the Built Environment II (2014)For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textKimberley gets to talk to both Sharon & Noel this time, about LIDAR and apples, but not at the same time! Kimberly Howard, a senior Arboricultural Consultant, discusses the use of new technology in arboriculture, specifically the use of LIDAR scanning to assess tree roots. She shares her experience working on a project to redevelop Grosvenor Square Gardens in London, where two mature London plane trees needed to be protected during construction. The use of LIDAR scanning allowed the project team to accurately locate and assess the size and distribution of the tree roots, ensuring that the foundations of the new buildings would not harm the trees. The information gathered from the LIDAR scanning was shared with the architects and engineers to inform the design of the building foundations and drainage systems. The project aims to create a world-class urban garden in Mayfair, London.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textIn this exclusive interview Sharon is interviewed by her friend Luke Fay. They discuss how Sharon got into podcasting, her preparation process, and the challenges of remote interviews. They also talk about Sharon's use of social media, her superpower of idea generation, and her journey to becoming a tree expert and starting her own practice. In this conversation, Sharon discusses the need for the development industry to evolve with a focus on community and the environment. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to the purpose of creating something better and not getting caught up in processes. Sharon also highlights the need for better communication and understanding between different professions in the industry. She shares her experiences of dealing with crises and the importance of seeking help and support. Sharon reflects on the joys and frustrations of working in a business partnership with her husband. Lastly, she expresses her gratitude for the community she has fostered in the arboriculture profession and the privilege of helping others.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textChris Baines is one of the UK’s leading independent environmentalists.  He trained as a horticulturalist at Wye College, Kent and then as a landscape architect in Birmingham.  He is an award-winning writer and broadcaster, presented what is considered to be the first environmental series for children on UK TV in the early 1980s and was one of the original presenters of BBC Countryfile.  His 2019 film documentary The Living Thames , made for the Thames Estuary Partnership, won the UK Charity Film Awards and has now won prizes at film festivals across 4 continents.  His best-selling book How to Make a Wildlife Garden has been continuously in print for almost 40 years and his book The Wild Side of Town won the first UK conservation book prize in 1987.Chris is self-employed and acts as an adviser to industry and government.  He has worked widely with senior executives in the construction, energy, minerals, housebuilding and ethical investment industries and he currently chairs the Independent Stakeholder Advisory Group for National Grid and Ofgem.Chris Baines is also an environmental campaigner with deep roots in the charitable sector and a long association with community-based environmental action.  He helped to establish the UK’s first urban wildlife trust, in the West Midlands, at the end of the 1970s. He was landscape adviser for the Government’s Priority Estates Project in the 1980s.  Through the 1990s he advised the Local Government Association, the Sainsbury Family Trusts, The Shell Better Britain Campaign and the New Homes Marketing Board on urban green infrastructure.  More recently he served as an adviser on sustainability for the Greenwich Millennium Dome, the London 2012 Olympics athletes’ village, and the World Heritage city of Bath.  Chris has been a National Vice-President of the Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts since 1986.  He is currently an adviser to the National Trust, Hon President of the Thames Estuary Partnership, Hon Patron of the Countryside Management Association and he has been awarded lifetime-achievement medals from both the RSPB and the British Association of Nature Conservationists.  He has played a leading role in the fields of environmental education and nature recovery throughout his career.   He served as a Trustee of the National Lottery for six years and enjoys an international reputation as an environmental communicator and as a broker of cross-sectoral partnerships.  He has always worked from his home in the West Midlands. For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textSarah Dodd, the Tree Hugging Lawyer, discusses various legal aspects related to trees, including neighboring tree disputes, subsidence, and tree preservation orders. She explains the legal rights and responsibilities of tree owners and neighboring landowners, as well as the potential for civil litigation in cases of tree damage. Sarah also highlights the importance of proper investigations and alternative solutions to tree removal. She discusses the complexities of tree preservation orders and the role of local authorities in protecting trees. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the legal considerations surrounding trees. The conversation explores the subjectivity of tree preservation orders (TPOs) and the challenges faced by planning authorities in enforcing them. It highlights the importance of reasonability assessments and the potential penalties for unauthorized work on protected trees. The conversation also touches on the role of biodiversity net gain in protecting trees from developers and the responsibilities of landowners under the Occupiers Liability Acts. The discussion concludes with a mention of the upcoming Tree Law Conference and the potential future legal rights of trees. www.treelaw.co.uk For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textIn this conversation, Sharon and Julian discuss the concept of biodiversity net gain and its unintended consequences, particularly in relation to the classification of veteran trees. They highlight the discrepancy between the definition of veteran trees in the National Planning Policy Framework and the definition in the Biodiversity Gain Requirements Regulations. Julian explains that the regulations' definition includes trees with common features such as significant decay, large girth, and high value for nature, which dilutes the exceptional value that should be associated with veteran trees. This creates confusion and potential conflicts in the classification and protection of trees. The conversation explores the challenges and implications of the new regulations regarding veteran trees in the UK. The speakers discuss the confusion around the identification of veteran trees and the different perspectives of arboriculturists and ecologists. They highlight the potential consequences of over-categorizing trees as veterans and the impact on land use planning and development. They also discuss the issue of root protection areas and the unintended consequences of excessive constraints. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the need for a balanced approach to tree preservation and the importance of considering future land use and biodiversity.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textChristine Figgener, a world-renowned marine biologist, discusses her passion for sea turtles and the importance of their conservation. She shares her journey to Costa Rica and her first impressions of the research station. Christine explains that there are seven extant species of sea turtles, each with unique characteristics and diets. She emphasizes the role of sea turtles in maintaining the underwater ecology, such as the green turtle's grazing on seagrass and the hawksbill turtle's role in controlling sponge populations on coral reefs. Christine also touches on the declining numbers of sea turtles and the potential impact on the underwater ecosystem. Sea turtles play a crucial role in maintaining the health of our oceans. They are considered keystone species that help regulate the ecosystem. The green turtles keep seagrass matters in check, while hawksbill turtles control sponge growth on coral reefs. Sea turtles also contribute to the provision of food by feeding on jellyfish, which helps maintain the balance of larval fish populations. However, sea turtles face numerous threats, including climate change, habitat destruction, and illegal harvesting. The mating and nesting behaviors of sea turtles are still not fully understood, but efforts are being made to study and protect these processes. Volunteerism in sea turtle conservation can be both positive and negative, with some organizations exploiting volunteers for profit. The viral video of a sea turtle with a plastic straw stuck in its nose brought global attention to the issue of plastic pollution and the need for change. Despite the challenges, there is hope for the future of sea turtles, as they have shown resilience and the ability to recover if we make positive changes to protect their habitats and reduce threats.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textThe conversation covers various topics related to urban ecology and the importance of nature in cities. It touches on personal experiences, the role of technology in enhancing urban greenery, and the challenges faced by urban foresters. The guests discuss the need for better data collection and mapping of trees, as well as the importance of community engagement and policy changes to protect and enhance urban nature. In this conversation, Nadina Galle discusses the importance of preserving trees on private land and the challenges of implementing tree ordinances. She also highlights the efforts of Matt Wells in Santa Monica to increase canopy cover and advocate for a private tree ordinance. The conversation then shifts to the role of technology in urban forestry, including the use of high-resolution satellite imagery to map trees on private land and the development of the Burnbot firefighting robot. The discussion also touches on the impact of climate change, the importance of nature in cities, and the use of technology to engage people with urban nature through apps and immersive experiences. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the potential benefits of a daily dose of nature and the importance of reconnecting with the natural world. It’s your last week to pre-order and join THE NATURE OF OUR CITIES summer book club. You'll find all the details here: https://lnkd.in/eGaxD_yj For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textSilvija discusses her forest social science study on how people engage with green spaces.  For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textDallas Campbell, a science communicator and television presenter, discusses his early life, career in television, and fascination with space exploration. He reminisces about past collaborations and the creation of the TV program Britain Beneath Your Feet. Dallas emphasizes the importance of popularizing science and making it accessible to the general public. He also explores the impact of new media and social media on society and discusses his podcasts, Patented and In Orbit. The conversation delves into the potential of AI and the search for extraterrestrial life, highlighting the awe and wonder of space exploration. In this conversation, Dallas Campbell discusses his experience overcoming fear and building confidence in public speaking. He also talks about his work in public speaking coaching and writing a book on space history. The conversation touches on the importance of science history and the ever-changing nature of scientific knowledge. Dallas shares his love for trees and their symbolism in our lives. He also discusses the power of doubt in science and the informality of podcasts. The conversation concludes with a discussion on dream scenarios, including the discovery of life beyond Earth and the exploration of Mars.TakeawaysPopularizing science and making it accessible to the general public is important for fostering curiosity and understanding.The impact of new media and social media on society is significant, but the role of television and mainstream media still holds value.Space exploration and the search for extraterrestrial life continue to captivate and inspire, raising profound questions about our place in the universe.The potential of AI is both exciting and concerning, and careful regulation is necessary to ensure its responsible use.Authenticity and passion are key to effective presentations, and the eradication of self-imposed blocks can enhance public speaking skills. Overcoming fear in public speaking requires relaxation and self-confidence.Science history provides valuable insights into the progress and nature of scientific knowledge.Trees hold deep symbolism and represent permanence and grounding in our lives.Science is a continuous process of doubt and revision, leading to new discoveries and understanding.Podcasts and social media have made conversations more informal and accessible.The future of science communication lies in diverse platforms and engaging storytelling.Dream scenarios include the discovery of life beyond Earth and the exploration of Mars.For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textJim is an ecologist and arboriculturist, specialising in veteran trees and bats. Jim is the director of Bats Research & Training, where he helps professionals train for a bat licence. When he is not running the business he works for the Vincent Wildlife Trust, as a senior bat conservation officer.Jim’s current research interests include; improving how we survey trees for bats and creating artificial bat roosts in trees.Jims Socials -  facebookLinkedinInstagramYoutubeFor more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textThis week Sharon speaks to Patrick Worms, Senior Science Policy Advisor for Centre for International Forestry research and World Agroforestry.  President, IUAF - the International Union of AgroforestryVice-President, EURAF – the European Agroforestry FederationTrustee, Savanna InstituteSenior Fellow, EGA – the Evergreening Global AllianceSteering Committee Member, ILLP - Initiatives for Land, Lives and Peace Advisor, EJP Soils - European Joint Programme SoilsAdvisor, ERC - Ecosystem Restoration CampsExecutive Committee, IPC - International Poplar Commission, FAOFor more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.

Send us a textLynne Boddy is Professor of Fungal Ecology at Cardiff University UK. She has taught and researched into the ecology of fungi associated with trees and wood decomposition for 45 years. Her research focuses on understanding how fungal mycelia behave in the natural world, climate change effects on fungi, antagonistic interactions between fungi, and development of fungal communities in wood. She is currently studying the fascinating communities of fungi and other organisms that rot the centres of old trees. She is a prolific author having co-authored “Fungal Decomposition of Wood” and “The Fungi”, her most recent (2021) being “Fungi and Trees: their Complex Relationships”, and the children’s book “Humongous Fungus”. She was (2009–2010) president of the British Mycological Society. Lynne is an ardent communicator of the mysteries and importance of the amazing hidden Kingdom of Fungi to the general public including TV, radio, popular talks, videos, articles and exhibitions. She was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list in 2019 for Services to Mycology and Science Outreach.Twitter @FungusProf  For more episodes in the Tree Lady Talks Archive click here.