Utilizing a GIS Vegetation Model for a Campus-as-arboretum Development

Abstract

This paper outlines the history of the SFA Arboretum's effort to establish a campus-as-arboretum at the university. In 1996, the participants created a robust Geographic Information System (GIS) for the campus forest based primarily on a 1993-95 campus mapping and tree inventory project in the 144-acre main core of the campus (Wilson to North St.; College to Starr). The project served as the MS thesis of Susan Perkins. In brief, the campus model reveals a pine-dominated Type 2 forest (one rapidly approaching maturity), difficult campus hydrology issues, and a landscape low on diversity with 68 species represented. In 1996, the Arboretum's AutoCAD® map and Excel® tree data files were integrated into the College of Forestry Unix-based ArcInfo® platform. This now provides full GIS capabilities for landscape planners. The resultant maps based on user queries reveal a robust vegetation analysis and management tool. In 1997, the SFA administration, Physical Plant, Grounds, College of Forestry, and SFA Arboretum initiated a “campus beautification” funding campaign. The SFA Arboretum will play a key role in building unique, documented, and mapped woody ornamental collections for the campus. This provides a unique opportunity in the South for long-term Zone 8 woody plant evaluation in a high-visibility and “perpetual” landscape.