15th Dutch Tree Info Day: an overwhelming success

On Thursday, March 7, 2024, the Dutch Tree Info Day organized its 15^e edition at the Mauritskazerne in Ede; an anniversary edition. The organization of this annual conference, Koninklijke Vereniging van Hoveniers en Groenvoorzieners (VHG) and Koninklijke Vereniging Stadswerk Nederland, in cooperation with initiator Jan Willem de Groot, looks back on a great day full of knowledge, passion and innovation. This year almost 300 driven professionals from the green management, tree care and landscape design sector from all over the Netherlands attended.

Initiator Jan Willem de Groot received a symbolic tribute during this anniversary edition in the form of a beautiful wood sculpture of an owl. A beautiful symbol of 15 years of joint commitment to our green living environment and its future. Next, Alderman Arnold Versteeg of the host municipality of Ede took the floor and emphasized the importance of trees in cities.

Artificial intelligence (AI) in tree care: an explosion of insights

Keynote speaker Renée van Holsteijn took attendees through a powerful speech about the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and the future of tree care. "AI has seen more trees than all of us put together," she proclaimed, then went on to highlight the potential of AI as an indispensable partner for arborists. In the afternoon sessions, several speakers further explored the boundaries of artificial intelligence, with concrete examples of AI applications, such as efficient data collection for optimized tree management.

Diversity and collaboration: the engine of success

The participants of the 15^e edition of the Tree Info Day represented a broad spectrum within the green space management industry. From policy makers to technical experts, each group was well represented. This diverse mix led to lively discussions and valuable exchanges of tips and advice.

"The fact that tickets were sold out within three weeks once again underscored for us the importance of this event. It was good and beautiful to see how incredibly valuable the sharing of knowledge and cooperation is, something we desperately need in these times. Precisely to have that good conversation with each other about which tree in which place and why. A conversation about the added value of trees in public space in combination with other functions such as traffic and parking. If green and gray professionals talk to each other more and immerse themselves in each other's world, all functions can be designed well enough. The solutions are there!" said Marc van Rosmalen on behalf of Royal VHG.

The future of the green city

The commitment to green does not stop after this successful Tree Info Day. Koninklijke Vereniging van Hoveniers en Groenvoorzieners (VHG) and Koninklijke Vereniging Stadswerk Nederland are already busy with preparations for the Future Green City World Congress that will take place from September 23 to 26, 2024 in Utrecht. This international congress highlights all facets of the green city with a focus on the future. Global challenges and opportunities of urban greening will be thoroughly explored during this event. For more information about the Dutch Tree Info Day and to stay informed about future developments, please visit the website www.boominfodag.nl or follow @boominfoday on social media.