SU Ag Center scientists conduct historic tree preservation and care training

Southern University Ag Center urban forestry scientists conducted a “Historic Tree Preservation and Tree Care Training” for hurricane-affected community members and students on the Baton Rouge campus.

To restore historical trees damaged by hurricane Katrina, such as the live oak tree located by the Southern University Geenhouse/headhouse complex, SU Urban Forestry professor Zhu H. Ning and LSU assistant director for Landscape Maintenance Fred Fellner, spear headed the preservation effort, which led to a training session for the Urban Forestry program students and hurricane-affected community members. Two cables were installed to hold the live oak tree trunk and prevent further split.

The training taught the importance of managing trees before and after a storm. The training session also covered the ANSI and ISA International Society of Arboriculture best management practices, pruning standard, safety standard, and fertilization. Attendees also received training in proper pruning, crown reduction, and cabling procedures.

This effort is a part of an ongoing initiative supported by the Ford Foundation, which aims at revitalizing communities through urban forestry.

The project is directed by Ning, Daniel Collins, center researcher and Kamran Abdollahi, urban forestry professor, who have hosted a series of similar trainings.

“We are fortunate that the Ford Foundation is a strong supporter for our endeavor in rebuilding community and urban forestry education,” Ning said.