National Arboriculture Conference - i-tree could Increase Resources for UK Tree Management

International speakers at the Arboricultural Association's 44th National Amenity Arboriculture Conference (12-15 September 2010) will include David Nowak from the US Forest Service. David will introduce the innovative 'i-tree' software that has been so influential in the United States - helping New York's tree department secure $220 million as a result of a cost-benefit analysis of its urban trees.

This year the AA welcomes delegates to Manchester University, in the heart of the city. With the Piccadilly main line railway station just 250m from the venue, they will enjoy the benefits of an urban centre, easily accessible by public transport.

The programme offers something for everyone, with a range of highly-respected speakers from around the world. It starts off by concentrating on the built environment, with urban design a key topic for discussion and strategic management of our tree stock looked at from several perspectives over the three days.

• Prof. Dr. Halib Francis Schwarze (Switzerland) will explain the detailed scientific understanding of biological control of tree decay fungi
• Dr Glynn Percival (UK) will describe how sugars can stimulate root vigour
• Dr Giorgio Catena (Italy) will give delegates the definitive account of thermal imaging - a much debated subject
• Philip Van Wassanaer (Canada) will present a study on tree assessment technologies.

There is a special programme of speakers for Tuesday morning, chosen by the National Association of Tree Officers which concentrates on issues particular, but not exclusive to, tree officers including

• tree management strategies
• budgetary control
• 'professionalism' - what it means

Our industry's response to the recent governmental changes to qualifications will be explained and the implications of this to existing qualifications and future candidates.

There is also a range of subjects of particular interest for contractors, including

• opportunities for business diversification
• management tools
• planting and establishment
• an interim report on research into the strength of tree forks
• testing minimally invasive diagnosis techniques by use of pulling tests.

In addition to the full three-day programme of academic and technical presentations the traditional 'AA Conference Field Trip' will take place on Sunday 12 September, this year at Tatton Park. This renowned site, owned by the National Trust and now managed by Cheshire East Council, is located just south west of Manchester. One of the UK's most complete historic sites, the impressive 18th century Mansion looks out over 50 acres of gardens and arboretum, which have been developed over the last 200 years. Today it is an almost complete picture of how the gardens existed in Edwardian times. Beyond the gardens are 1,000 acres of parkland and there are many other visitor attractions to be enjoyed.

The Tatton Park tour will concentrate on the arboretum, which boasts some exceptional specimen trees, but Field Trip delegates will also be able to explore the estate at their leisure after a complementary lunch.  Further conference details www.trees.org.uk/training-events/Amenity-Conference.