City
Residents and visitors may notice newly planted trees in Manhattan along Bluemont Avenue, Colorado Street, and Yuma Street with QR code signs that read, “Get to know THIS tree!” The trees and signs are part of a collaborative research project between Kansas State University, the City of Manhattan, and the Kansas Forest Service focused on how communities connect with street trees.
Community members are invited to scan the QR code posted on the signs to find information about the specific tree, including its species and the benefits it provides. Participants are then asked to complete a short survey, which takes about two minutes. Feedback will help researchers better understand how community engagement can support healthier and more resilient urban forests and will be used to help inform future decisions about tree planting and long-term tree care.
Street trees provide many benefits beyond improving the appearance of neighborhoods. They offer shade, improve air quality, reduce stormwater runoff, support wildlife and help keep neighborhoods cooler during Kansas summers.
Residents who are unable to visit one of the trees may still complete the survey online at: https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4HNKmZcSDa9PMT