Data collection
Embracing technology for carrying out tree surveys and inspections is one of the ways to be efficient and effective out on-site. I use a Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE for data collection on-site, and it has a stylus and is also a touch screen as well as voice memo recording. I can use a range of Apps on the mobile tablet, including a tree management database called Ezytreev, for my tree survey inventory collection. I also use a Microsoft Surface Go with AxciScape for BS5837:2012 tree surveys for development sites.
As technology becomes more and more advanced it is also possible to use mobile phones to collect LiDAR data and I use an iPhone 16 Pro with the 3d Scanner App to take 3d scans of trees whilst out surveying as another method of recording key features in addition to photographs and videos.
Drones
Sometimes, I commission aerial support from Ross Addison of Idea Inc for my tree surveys through the use of drones and this is useful to gain an aerial oversight of groups and woodlands as well as more in-depth views of the tree canopy and observations at height without having the leave the ground.
I survey in most weather conditions, but even with a waterproof case for my tablet, it is not always ideal to survey in heavy rain conditions. It is useful to have a range of outdoor clothing to ensure you remain warm whilst out as tree surveying can take time to gather the data required, take measurements and make assessments.