After reporting your trees as planted within your dashboard, we ask for monitoring data to measure our collective success. Basic monitoring is easy and provides a subjective assessment of performance for all plantings.
For basic monitoring, you'll need to provide the following:
Monitoring date
Average survival rate
Optional: survival rate by species
Reasons for tree mortality
Photo of your plantings
How to perform basic walk-through monitoring
All projects must complete a basic monitoring walk-through within a year of planting.
The walk-through should be done by those who planted the site or have access to planting records and photos. Collect data on survival and growth rates to keep our count accurate and help with future plantings.
If you've had a tree request approved by Trees That Count, you can download and print our Basic (Walk Through) Monitoring Field Sheet within your Planter toolkit page.
Collecting monitoring data
Take a 5-10 minute walk through the planting area, observing surviving trees and comparing them to initial planting conditions. You can use our Basic Monitoring Field Sheet to record data.
Steps:
Check plantings: Inspect projects a few times in the first days and weeks after planting. Ensure fences are intact, pests are controlled, and weed growth is minimal. Early inspection can prevent issues and improve success.
Record survival and growth rates: Estimate the overall survival rate to the nearest 10% (e.g., 0%, 10%, 20%). This data helps us understand regional risks and improve future planting strategies.
Note tree losses: Record species affected by losses and the reasons (e.g., drought, pests).
Take photos: Before and after photos provide a visual record of progress.
Photo tips
Use a fixed point (photopoint) to capture consistent photos over time.
Place the photopoint on a high spot for a representative view.
Use a stable point like a fence post for the camera.
Frame the view to show changes clearly.
Position the camera to the north to minimise shadows and glare.
Use previous photos to replicate shots.
Take annual photos at the same time each year with the same settings.
One well-positioned photopoint is usually enough.
Monitoring frequency
Monitor your plantings within 2 weeks of planting. Continue monitoring annually until plants establish permanent cover, which can take 2-5 years depending on the site.
Any questions? Feel free to contact us at [email protected]