Analysis of the health condition of trees (single or in groups) in urban areas and assessment of their structural integrity. Structural anomalies and defects that undermine tree stability and constitute indexes of tree failure. Pathogen occurrence and dangerousness. Visual (VTA) and instrumental analyses. Methods and criteria for remedying improper tree management.
Presentations (slides) and scientific and technical-informative articles concerning the issues addressed during the course will be provided to students by the teacher.
Learning Objectives
Skills acquired at the end of the course concern the ability to visually recognize, through the "signs" of the disease, the major pathogens that attack plants in urban areas and to evaluate their action together with other non-biotic factors that alter tree resistance to mechanical forces (static and dynamic loads).
Expected learning outcomes are the acquisition of the knowledge necessary to evaluate the biomechanical characteristics of trees and the biological, physical and anthropogenic factors (e.g. pruning) that influence the mechanical behavior and stability of trees.
Prerequisites
Frequency of lectures, excursions and labs, although non compulsory, is strongly recommended: 2/3 of practical activities should be attended.
Teaching Methods
CFU: 3
Lectures (% total): 30% - Thematic seminars dedicated to the topics of the course
Laboratory-field/practice (% total): 70% - in the field, to face "live", with a theoretical-practical approach, the problems of trees.
Teaching support tools: Beamer, PC, Material for the field excursion (field sheets and various).
Further information
* email:
salvatore.moricca@unifi.it
* timetable and information: after classes or by appointment
* e-learning: Moodle platform for lecture slide sharing, and other teaching aids.
Type of Assessment
Exam and evaluation criteria: interview. The student's ability to address the topics covered with language appropriateness, to discuss the different aspects and viewpoints, to deepen the topics of the course and to create links between the topics will be assessed.
Course program
• Pathogens that cause decay and undermine the stability of trees, with particular regard to wood decaying fungi;
• Assessment of the physical and biological factors that influence the stability of trees;
• Analysis of the structural integrity of the tree by sonic and other instrumental methods.
Sustainable Development Goals 2030
This course deals with the stability of trees and the protection of urban greenery. These are fundamental aspects for the quality of life, the well-being (including safety) of people. Plants also perform important functions in urban areas: landscaping, recreation, ecological, climate mitigation.