Assessing Hazardous Urban Trees: insights from Public Perspectives

Despite the extensive research conducted on urban trees, little is known about the differing perspectives on hazardous trees between the public and experts. Evaluating and mitigating hazardous trees is crucial, as poor decisions can result in property damage, injury, or loss of life. The primary goal of this study is to understand how experts and general public perceive dangerous trees in order to establish more effective strategies for reducing the hazards associated with urban trees. The standard tree hazard evaluation practiced by experts, along with a survey of public respondents evaluating tree hazards is analysed quantitively. Tree species, tree target, site factor, tree health, load factor, and tree defect are the six main factors that experts consider when evaluating dangerous trees. On the other hand, only four were highlighted by the public: site factor, tree health, load factor, and tree defect. The results provide insightful information that assists tree managers in establishing feasible strategies for reducing the risks associated with urban trees.