On August 8, 2018, an ambitious group of urban explorers embarked
on the SMA Professional Affiliates Day tree trek—a 7.5 mile (12 km)
walking tour of downtown Columbus, Ohio. The program provided a
unique field experience to participants from all over the world, with
attendees coming from as close as central Ohio to as far as South Korea.
The tour was organized by Steve Cothrel of Upper Arlington, Ohio
and Lisa Bowers from the ODNR Division of Forestry. Additional
tour guides included Sam Simmons from Upper Arlington and
Jack Low, long time Columbus City Forester (now retired).
Guest speakers from the City of Columbus Recreation and Parks
Department, other nearby communities, consulting firms, the
Ohio Statehouse, and volunteer organizations all contributed their
knowledge and experience at various points along the route.
Downtown Columbus is a dynamic place these days, with new con-
struction and green infrastructure mixing with history in all direc-
tions. Highlights of the tour included tree vault construction in a
commercial area, a historic park, the arena district, a river corri-
dor redeveloped as premier park space following dam removal,
the City Hall grounds, assorted rain gardens and storm water mit-
igation techniques, the Ohio Statehouse grounds (with apiary), an
ambitious topiary work, and much more. It was a long day's hike,
but breaks, lunch, and camaraderie kept spirits high. Thanks to all
of the speakers who helped make the day such a success!
SMA Hosts ISA
Professional Affiliates
Tour of Columbus, Ohio
Photos by Steve Cothrel (except where noted)
Along the river,
discrete wire
fencing is essential
to protect young
trees from beavers.
The bronze animals
pose no threat.
Stressed and
unstressed Acer x
freemanii along Town
Street in Columbus.
14 CityTREES
