Use the site's own reference points
Include the project or site, the area name and a stable reference such as a named building or path. Use the names in the agreed site plan where available. Descriptions such as “behind the shed” become ambiguous when several buildings are present, and movable objects are poor long-term references.
Describe the tree's position consistently
State the area and relation to the reference point using a convention the team understands. If using directions, check that the words match the plan orientation. Where a distance is given, identify whether it is measured or approximate. Do not introduce apparent precision that the location method does not support.
Compare two location notes
Illustrative example: “Big tree near gate” gives few clues when a site has several entrances. “T021, eastern entrance garden, beside the pedestrian path; see site map and photograph L1” connects the record to an area, tree ID and evidence. The map still needs its location method and any stated limitations.
Keep the description alongside the map
- Site or project identifier.
- Stable tree ID.
- Area name and recognisable fixed reference.
- Location note and relevant photograph.
- Mapped coordinates and method, where recorded.
- Any uncertainty or difficulty relocating the tree.
Handle adjacent land and grouped trees clearly
If a tree is outside the survey boundary but relevant to the brief, describe that relationship and retain the agreed coverage note. Where trees are recorded as a group, explain that convention rather than implying that a single mapped point identifies every individual stem. Confirm that the report uses the same identity and coverage approach as the field record.
Check the note during handover
Ask whether a person unfamiliar with the visit could match the ID, description, map and photograph. If site names change, retain the earlier reference with the dated record and document the new wording. A location description helps interpretation but does not make a map survey-grade or establish a property boundary.
Read how to check recorded positions and the client handover checklist, or explore Canopy survey workflows.
Prepared by Canopy.