Tree census reveals rare species

Members of a citizens' forum on Sunday held a tree census in Indiranagar by mapping their presence in each street.

A 14-member team of students and residents, belonging to 'I Change Indiranagar' counted nearly 500 trees of different species in Defence Colony, Indiranagar.

"The purpose is to be aware of the different species of trees planted several decades ago when the layout was formed," said Kannan A S, a member of the forum. "Since there's no proper data of the trees, the census would document the trees in the neighbourhood, which will help residents save and protect them."

The team identified trees on every street, its location and health. They also recorded the tree's girth, height and species it belongs to, among other details.

On the first day of the census, they found Avenue trees, Copper Pot trees, African Tulip, Rain trees and some of the rarest varieties like Arjuna tree and Sacred tree, also known as the Flame of the Forest.

"After gathering data, if a tree requires immediate medical attention, the volunteers will immediately attend to it. For this project, we are taking the help of Gubbi Labs, a research organisation working towards sustainable ecosystems," Kannan explained.

Tree walk

To acquaint local residents with the trees in their neighbourhood, 'I Change Indiranagar' is planning a 'Residents Tree Walk'.

Kannan said: "After the tree census, we intend to undertake a tree walk. We'll take residents around the area and educate them by explaining about the various species of trees."

"During the long walk, we’ll talk about the species, their medicinal value and when they flower. It would help citizens understand how trees are important in so many ways," Kannan added.