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In this conversation, Jules Acton discusses her book 'Oaklore' and her journey into the world of nature conservation. She shares her experiences of visiting a nature reserve for the first time and the barriers people may face when trying to engage with nature. Jules emphasizes the importance of creating openings and ways for people to connect with nature. She also talks about her childhood experiences with nature, including a special apple tree in her garden. Jules explores the world of oak trees, including the birds and insects that depend on them. She shares her journey of learning bird songs and the joy of discovering new species. Jules also discusses the cultural significance of oak trees, such as the use of oak gall ink and the celebration of Oak Apple Day. She highlights the importance of awe and shared experiences in connecting with nature. Jules recounts her experiences on a moth night and the beauty of moths. She also explores the world of beetles and the importance of dead wood in supporting their habitats. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the Medusa Oak and the quirks of quercuses. In this part of the conversation, Jules Acton and Sharon discuss various topics related to oak trees and their conservation. They talk about the work of the Woodland Trust and the RSPB in managing and preserving oak trees. They also discuss the concept of veteranization, which involves aging trees prematurely to create habitat for specialized species. They touch on the folklore and magic associated with oak trees, including the myth of summoning the devil by dancing around a certain oak tree. They also explore the mutualistic relationship between trees and fungi, highlighting the importance of fungi in providing nutrients and water to trees. They discuss the challenges of acute oak decline and the need for better decision-making and infrastructure planning to protect and preserve oak trees. They emphasize the importance of creating space for nature and promoting connectivity in urban environments. Jules encourages listeners to join conservation organizations and get involved in the preservation of oak trees and nature in general.

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In this episode, Sharon and Callum discuss the use of AI and technology in the arboriculture industry. Callum explains that AI has been around for decades and has been used in various applications, such as loan applications and predictive text. In the forestry industry, AI has been used for mapping deforestation and monitoring pests and diseases. Callum emphasizes the importance of training AI models to get the desired output and highlights the need for social responsibility in shaping AI. He also shares how he uses AI in his daily work as an arboriculture consultant, including keyword research, report writing, and pricing jobs. In this part of the conversation, Callum discusses the use of Chat GPT, photogrammetry, and virtual reality (VR) in arboriculture. He explains how Chat GPT can assist in generating reports and providing structure, while still requiring human input for analysis and assessment. Callum also highlights the ethical concerns of making GPT publicly accessible. He then delves into the concept of photogrammetry, explaining how it works and the benefits of using apps like Polycam to create 3D models of trees. He emphasizes the importance of hosting these models on online platforms for easy access. Callum then explores the potential of VR and augmented reality (AR) in arboriculture, particularly in training and education. He discusses the immersive experience of VR and its ability to improve knowledge retention. Lastly, Callum touches on the limitations and benefits of using drones for tree surveys, including the accurate mapping of trees in the absence of graphical surveys. Drones equipped with multispectral cameras can be used for NDVI (Normalised Difference Vegetation Index) to identify stressed or low vitality trees. They are valuable for ash dieback surveys, identifying trees in distress, and conducting feasibility studies. Drones can also be used for creating 3D models of sites, providing better context than traditional maps. Leveraging social media, particularly platforms like TikTok, can help attract younger people to the industry. Authentic and engaging content that adds value is key. AI and apps have the potential to scan trees and identify defects, as well as generate detailed weather forecasts for the arboricultural industry. Immersive videos and virtual reality can be used to showcase different aspects of the industry and attract young talent.

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In this bonus episode of Tree Lady Talks, Sharon discusses the revision of the British standard for trees and construction, BS 5837. She interviews Howard Booth, the chair of the committee proposing the changes, to discuss the main updates. The changes include new process flow charts, a new categorization method, adjustments to root protection areas, and the inclusion of canopy cover assessments. The goal of these changes is to ensure better tree care and development practices. The episode provides valuable insights into the proposed revisions and their implications. The conversation explores various parameters and considerations for tree growth, including species, form, site conditions, and pruning requirements. The British standard for tree retention and the importance of tree surveys conducted by arboriculturalists are discussed. The conversation also touches on the proposed changes in the British standard for tree surveys (BS 5837) and the inclusion of canopy cover assessments. The revision introduces new plans, such as the Arboricultural Impact Plan and the Constraints and Opportunities Plan. The categorization of trees is expanded to include a new category for veteran trees (Category V). Root protection areas for veteran trees are set to increase, and dead trees will also have a level of protection. The consultation process for the revision is highlighted, encouraging listeners to participate and provide feedback.

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