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MASTER PLANNING <br /> Successful urban forestry programs develop master plans that guide day -to =day <br /> operations. Plans coordinate activities to ensure that the most important activities <br /> occur first and help to balance short and long -term goals. Because there is no single <br /> "right way" to develop or implement a tree program, these basic steps may not be <br /> completed in this order. For example, the policy making body, i.e. the City Council <br /> (advised by the Tree Commission) adopts goals and objectives. Information about <br /> the community's tree resource is collected through a tree inventory which is updated <br /> daily as work is done. A work or management plan details the tasks that will fulfill <br /> the program's objectives. <br /> Tree Inventory <br /> A tree inventory is a management tool that documents the types and locations of <br /> trees, and outlines the needs of a community's tree population. Members of the <br /> Tree Commission, other volunteers, or private contractors may be utilized to assist <br /> in collecting the inventory information. To complete a tree inventory, information <br /> about the tree population must be gathered systematically. In Eugene this is an <br /> ongoing process which is updated regularly by city staff. <br /> Inventory information includes: species, size, location, general tree condition and <br /> maintenance needs. Information should also be collected about suitable planting sites <br /> for new trees. Inventory information summarizes general tree characteristics for <br /> the entire community and demonstrates the need for a systematic tree care program. <br /> Preparation of a table that outlines management needs and priorities helps to forecast <br /> tree needs and plan future nursery stock purchases. Dividing tree management <br /> needs into work units allows identification of areas most in need of maintenance. <br /> This is a step toward preventative maintenance and away from crisis management. <br /> Tree inventory information effectively communicates budget requirements to <br /> decision makers. <br /> If the information is accurate, accessible and simple, it becomes one of the best tools <br /> for decision making. Program resources can be allocated among the various tree <br /> management functions (master planning, planting, establishing new trees, <br /> maintenance, and removals). Based on the inventory, decision - makers can evaluate <br /> various work plan proposals by comparing expected results with budget levels. <br /> Work can also be scheduled for maximum effectiveness. Upon completion, the work <br /> must be reported so that the inventory can be modified and remain accurate. <br />