Take a walk down Fifth Avenue
A look at the visible and invisible data of street trees in NYC
When was the last time you truly observed?
We pass trees every day – but how much time do we take to stop and observe them? We recognize different types of trees, their size, and if they look healthy or not, but what we don’t see as easily are the incredible ecological benefits they provide. Learn about the visible data (tree type, size, problems, health) and invisible data (ecological benefits) of Fifth Avenue street trees. Then wherever you are, you can record your own observations with this downloadable worksheet.
A bit of context
This project focuses on 1,234 street trees along Fifth Avenue, using data gathered during the most recent NYC street tree census (2015-2016). Every decade, starting in 1995, volunteers spread out across New York City and participate in the largest participatory municipal urban forestry project in the US – the NYC street tree census, “TreesCount!”. The third and most recent census occurred in 2015-2016, capturing values for 40+ variables, for 666,134 street trees across the five boroughs. To gather the data, the nearly 2,250 volunteers used high tech tools, survey wheels, tape measures, tree identification keys, innovative geospatial technology, and a strong quality review process.
How to read the map
Each tree is represented by one symbol, showing the visible (physical characteristics) and invisible data (ecological benefits). Tree types are noted in abbreviations under each. Ecological benefit levels are compared to trees of similar sizes, so you can see what trees have the most impact for their size. The more amount of each ecological symbol – the more benefit it has.
Section 1: 142nd St – 120th St
Section 2: 120th St – 101st St
Section 3: 101st St – 80th St
Section 4: 80th St – 60th St
Section 5: 60th St – 40th St
Section 6: 40th St – 20th St
Section 7: 20th St – Washington Square
You made it! Let’s keep exploring
Visible data:
Physical characteristics
What species can you see along Fifth Ave? How big are the trees? Are they healthy? There’s a lot of data you can see, you just have to look. Learn more about tree types, sizes, health, and problems.
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Invisible data:
Ecological benefits
These trees put in a lot of work offsetting the effects of human activity and pollution. Learn how long trees could keep a TV on, how many people’s carbon footprints they offset, and more.
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Sketch your own
tree observations
Get curious and creative! Spend a little more time connecting with the world around you by recording and sketching the trees you see on your walks or in your neighborhoods.
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