Earth Partnership for Schools
WOODLAND RESTORATION INTERACTIVE WORKSHOP > HOW TO RESTORE WOODLAND AT YOUR SCHOOL > STUDY THE SITE > TREE HEIGHT
Measure the circumference, crown size, canopy, and height of trees. Keep records of the measurements, and draw tree canopies on the base map.
Click here to get directions to measure tree height
Click here to get data sheets for measuring tree height
Directions to measure circumference:
Using a measuring tape or DBH tape, measure the distance around the tree at four feet above the ground. A DBH tape can be purchased at science and forestry supply companies. DBH stands for diameter at breast height and is a measuring tape calibrated to measure the diameter of a tree.
Directions to measure the crown size and canopy:
Pace off from the trunk to the edge of the canopy, drip line, and place a surveyor's flag or stake. Repeat three times to form two perpendicular lines. Measure the distance from the trunk to the canopy at each line. Draw these distances on your base map to show tree canopy. To calculate the crown size, add the four numbers together and divide by two.
Diagram of a tree when looking down from above:
Crown size = (8´ + 15´+ 10´+ 12´) ÷ 2 = 17.5´