The Eastern Shore Master Naturalists, a chapter of Virginia Master Naturalists has concluded an extensive, granular and inclusive data collection of the trees that make up Historic Cape Charles. The data collection took place over the spring, summer and fall of 2017.
The group labeled and categorized the trees street by street and block by block. It is by far the most comprehensive list of trees ever compiled for the town. Information will include data such as the species of the tree, general physical measurements of the tree such as height and diameter, estimated age, overall health and management recommendations.
According to Historic District Review Board member David Gay, “Barbara O’Hare and the master naturalist group went house by house and documented the types of trees, but also noted which trees would be best suited for the town.”
Currently, the data is in raw form, and is in the process of being inputted into a spreadsheet application. Once in the spreadsheet, the group will begin scrubbing the data and crunching the numbers. According to Gay, the data should be ready late February or early March.
The town is always in a constant review of the treescape. In some cases, older diseased trees must be taken down, and knowing which trees would function best as replacements is crucial, not just for the town, but for private citizens that may want to replace or enhance the landscape. This survey will be an important tool for future planning and development.
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Hooray for the Master Naturalists. Now Cape Charles has a comprehensive database on which to establish methodical, consistent management of their street trees.