INVENTORY OF URBAN FOREST IN THE DOWNTOWN AREA OF MANGUEIRINHA, PARANA STATE, BRAZIL

This study investigated the urban trees in the downtown area of Mangueirinha town Parana State, Brazil. We inventoried tree species on 19 public streets and avenues and collected data regarding damages caused by trees to public infrastructure as well as damages to trees caused by human activities. We also evaluated the need for management practices such as cleaning and repair pruning; pest, parasite and disease control; removal and replanting of trees. We observed that urban afforestation in the region comprises 28 species; however, 74.4% of the population is represented by only three species. Regarding damages to public infrastructure, 36.5% of the tree species are causing damages to sidewalks and pavements, and 16.25% are conflicting with the aerial power and telephone grid. Regarding damages caused by human activities, 58% of the damages are caused by drastic pruning and 2.2%, by vandalism. Appropriate management practices and pruning are necessary in 48.19% population. There are 26 dead trees that have to be removed and all avenues and streets have trees that need replanting. However, no tree requires sanitary treatments. We recommended the city government to create a Master Plan for Urban Afforestation (MPUA) aimed at improving the management of the urban forest.