Development of a Tree Data Collection System for Green Space Management and Conservation of Heritage Trees in the Phra Nakhon District

Abstract

The research used a study area in Phra Nakhon district: 1) to develop a system for a tree database; 2) to collect tree data; and 3) to develop guidelines for managing green spaces and conserving heritage trees. The tree database system was developed using Google Form applications, with the interface using Google Sheets that could be accessed via a smartphone. The developed system allows the administrator to add, delete, edit, check data displays and easily manage the tree data. Tree data collection on 9 roads in Phra Nakhon district identified 1,243 trees in 17 tree species. The top-5 tree species were: Pterocarpus macrocarpus, Tamarindus indica, Lagerstroemia macrocarpa, Tabebuia rosea and Mimusops elengi. The numbers of trees identified by road name were: Ratchadamnern 710 trees (57.21%), Krung Kasem 125 trees (10.06%), Phra Athit 116 trees (9.33%), Prachathipatai 97 trees (7.80%) Phra Sumen 52 Trees (4.18%), Phra Chan 42 trees (3.38%), Tanao 39 trees (3.14%), Samsen 37 trees (2.98%) and Fueangnakorn 25 trees (2.01%). Trees suitable for conservation as heritage trees in the Phra Nakhon district were the Ironwood tree (Hopea odorata) near Klong Lhord, Ratchabophit temple, and the Bodhi Tree (Ficus religiosa) in the grounds of the Chana Song Khram temple, which is a tree historically important to the community. The developed guidelines for managing green spaces included: a survey for tree safety; improving the landscape; coding each tree; and providing information about tree management through online network channels. Further research should consider developing a tree data collection system and a modernized tree database; study areas added to all 36 roads; and the creation of a route of heritage trees to assist with learning about the history and value of the trees.