New technology that can depict structural defects in trees is available now at the Southern University Urban Forestry Program to assist homeowners in tree diagnosis.

Known as Tree Resistograph, the instrument measures wood resistance and can identify where decay, cracks and hollowness exist within tree trunks.

Recently, the Ag Center chancellor Leodrey Williams received a call from a homeowner concerned about the structural soundness of two large water oak trees (3ft in diameter) in his backyard. Yadong Qi, Ph.D., professor of urban forestry, and Yongsheng Li, doctoral student, surveyed the site and tested the trees using the Resistograph.

The team discovered the main trunks of both water oak trees were solid and sound, without decay at the base. However, they suggested that the homeowner contact an arborist to prune the trees and lighten up the crowns above.

The homeowner received the good news with a smile.

"The tree survey using the Tree Resistograph technology enhances our ability to help home owners in making informed decisions about their trees," said Williams.

The Tree Resistograph has also been used in class lectures to provide hands-on experiential learning opportunities for urban forestry students at Southern University and A&M College. "This instrument is a new addition to our existing Picus Sonic Tomography system which will augment our capacity to conduct research, education and outreach in urban forestry," said Qi. The Picus Sonic Tomography is another technology that can detect the soundness and structural defects of tree trunks. Both instruments were funded by the SU HBGI program. For more information, contact Qi at yadong_qi@suagcenter.com.

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