Project Summary:

Student researchers Sophie Radder and Leah Kisto, advised by Chief Sustainability Officer Erik Nielsen, are leading a vital initiative to create a comprehensive, campus-wide tree inventory at NAU. Utilizing TreeKeeper software and U.S. Forest Service protocols, the team is surveying an estimated 6,000 to 7,000 trees to measure metrics like height, trunk diameter, and overall health. This robust dataset empowers the Office of Sustainability and Facility Services to accurately quantify above-ground biomass and carbon sequestration, directly supporting the university’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030. Beyond carbon accounting, the project assesses crucial ecosystem services such as stormwater retention and shade provision. By making this data accessible via a public web-based map, the initiative actively informs future landscape planning, enhances climate resiliency, and provides a living laboratory for the campus community.

Project Lead:

Sophie Radder & Lead Kisto

Project Advisor:

Erik Nielson

Date:

2025-08-22

Funding Amount:

$11,023.35

Department:

Office of Sustainability

Supporting Documents