Don't use common names or codes. For example, rather than describe lightning damage, indicate the need for pruning or removal. It is prudent to have a skilled tree crew correct the problem as soon as possible. Do so in order to schedule maintenance work, allocate equipment and prepare budgets. Identify planting spaces to encourage the planting of bare areas.
Special trees require more intensive management.
There are many different types of inventories and you should select an inventory type only when you know precisely what you want to accomplish. Data gathered on your communitiy's trees must have practical value. To guarantee that your tree management program will be effective today and useful tomorrow, you must match an appropriate inventory to your objectives. For example, a survey of hazard trees or the extent of Dutch elm disease are specific problem inventories. Note that every community should conduct a yearly survey of hazardous trees.