This year's theme, ‘Detailed Tree Inspections – Measurement and Analysis’, provided an excellent basis for the conference's diverse program, which was moderated by Dr. Alexander von Birgelen, Professor of Plant Use at Hochschule Geisenheim University. Together with Claudia Hodel of the Rhine-Main Tree Care Working Group, Professor von Birgelen warmly welcomed participants to the event and offered a preview of the key topics to be explored. The opening lecture, held by Bernd Lüll, focused on the application of resistographs – mechanical resistance measurement devices – in practice. This was followed by Professor Steffen Rust of HAWK University, who presented on cutting-edge developments in acoustic tomography, a technology that enables the detection of internal damage in trees.
In the afternoon, Georg Ardissone-Kraus of Hochschule Geisenheim University demonstrated the use of a LiDAR scanner in the university park, showcasing how this technology can digitally capture tree structures. In another lecture, Daniel Esche from UrbanTree Consulting described the bio-mechanical basis of the Elasto-Inclino Method, which is employed to assess the structural stability and breakage resistance of trees. The program concluded with Christoph Plafky and Christian Jung, who shared insights into wind response measurements in trees with root damage.
Alongside the diverse program of talks and demonstrations, exhibitors also took the opportunity to present their products and services, giving attendees the opportunity to discover innovative tools and materials while also fostering valuable professional networks and future collaborations.
The organizing team is already preparing for next year’s event, which will mark the 25th anniversary of the conference. In addition to lectures, the program will feature discussion forums and excursions designed to further advance and deepen the exchange of knowledge in tree care. This year’s conference once again highlighted the crucial role of dialogue between science and practice in driving sustainable and innovative developments in the field.
