Mapping Tree Canopy Cover Change from 1952-2018 using Arial Imagery in the Columbus Park Neighborhood in Worcester, Massachusetts

Keywords: Urban Tree Canopy Cover, Historical Land Change, Columbus Park, Worcester
Session Type: Virtual Poster Abstract
Day: Friday
Session Start / End Time: 2/25/2022 03:40 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/25/2022 05:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 39

Abstract

Urban forests are important components of green infrastructure because of their ability to mitigate the urban heat island effect and stormwater flooding. Recent studies report that urban tree canopy (UTC) in the United States is declining, caused primarily by tree removal, pest infestation, and urban sprawl/densification. Fine-scale neighborhood representations of urban canopy dynamics are necessary to understand the mechanisms that drive canopy change. This study investigates the historical patterns of canopy cover using the Columbus Park neighborhood in Worcester, Massachusetts (1952 and 2018) to characterize canopy dynamics, patterns, and drivers. Tree cover was digitized from 1952 black and white aerial photographs and was compared to 1 meter canopy cover imagery (2018). Results show a 16% increase in UTC from 1952-2018 as well as a recommended 10% increase in UTC in Columbus Park. Important drivers were tree planting along roads and neglect of management in greenspaces. The results show the importance of protecting patches of green space within neighborhoods. Findings from this research will be used to suggest future management practices in the Columbus Park neighborhood.