Tree Browser

Name: Tree Browser
Author: Utah State University

Utah State University

DOCUMENTED

Published in academic literature

For:Researchers & AcademicsGeneral Public & EnthusiastsIndustry Professionals

Free

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App Summary

Tree Browser is an educational reference tool that helps non-experts identify and select trees suitable for planting in Utah and the Intermountain West. Based on associated research from Utah State University Extension, the app provides a searchable database of 241 native and introduced trees, allowing users to filter selections by 21 growth-related and ornamental characteristics. This tool operationalizes expert horticultural knowledge to help the public make more informed decisions for successful tree selection and planting in the region.

App Screenshots

Detailed Description

Functionality & Mechanism

Developed at Utah State University Extension, Tree Browser is an interactive reference tool for tree identification and selection in the Intermountain West. The system leverages a database of 241 native and introduced tree species, illustrated with over 1,000 photographs. The interface facilitates identification by allowing selection from 21 distinct characteristics, including growth-related, cultural, and ornamental attributes. The system filters its database to present species that match the specified criteria, supporting informed horticultural and landscaping decisions.

Evidence & Research Context

The tool is based on a Utah State University Extension publication detailing horticultural best practices for selecting and planting landscape trees in the region.
The system's searchable database compiles information on 241 native and introduced trees adapted to the Intermountain West, including 1,070 identification photographs.
Associated research describes the system's utility as an identification key for both native and common non-native trees in specific regional ecosystems like northern Utah.

Intended Use & Scope

Tree Browser is intended for horticulturalists, educators, and the general public as a reference tool for species identification and selection within the Intermountain West. Its primary utility is to support informed planting decisions based on regional suitability and desired characteristics. The tool does not provide pest or disease diagnostics and is not a substitute for professional arboricultural consultation.

Studies & Publications

2 publications

Peer-reviewed research associated with this app.

Non-Evaluative Reference

Key to the Trees of Logan Canyon

Kuhns et al. (2015) · Utah State University Extension

Referenced in academic literature; no direct evaluation of the app

This fact sheet is designed to help people who are not tree experts identify trees found in Logan Canyon in northern Utah. This key includes native and commonly found non-native trees found on wild lands in northern Utah, southern Idaho and southwestern Wyoming.

Development/Design Paper

Tree browser mobile – Not just for the desktop anymore

Kuhns et al. (2012) · UACAA 2012 Summer Meeting Proceedings

Describes the research-driven development of this app

In 1999, USU's Extension Forester and Horticulturist published an extension publication titled "Selecting and Planting Landscape Trees". The publication allowed readers to select trees with various growth related, ornamental and cultural characteristics. The information in that publication was enhanced by developing it into a searchable database software program, TreeBrowser a computer program containing native and introduced trees growing in Utah and the Intermountain West. In 2009, USU Tree Browser migrated into an interactive website, http://treebrowser.org, containing information on 241 native and introduced trees growing in Utah and the Intermountain West, including 1,070 full color photographs. Users browse through a complete list of trees or can narrow their choices by selecting from 21 general, growth-related, cultural, and ornamental characteristics.

In the Media

USU Forester Mike Kuhns Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

Utah State University professor Mike Kuhns received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Utah Community Forest Council and Utah Chapter of the International Society of Arboriculture in 2016 for his contributions to urban forestry. Kuhns, head of USU's Department of Wildland Resources and director of USU Forestry Extension, was recognized during the 2017 Green Industry Conference in Sandy, Utah. The award lauded "the breadth of Dr. Kuhns' impact on the field" of urban forestry throughout his career.

UsuRead article

Mike Kuhns Named Head of USU's Department of Wildland Resources

Utah State University professor and Extension Forestry specialist Michael "Mike" Kuhns became the new department head of the university's Department of Wildland Resources in the Quinney College of Natural Resources. According to QCNR dean Chris Luecke, "Mike brings 20 years of experience working with Utah forest lands to his new position" along with expertise in teaching, research, extension, and administration. Luecke noted that Kuhns' broad perspective will bring vision and leadership to the department.

UsuRead article

USU Forester Mike Kuhns Receives Distinguished Service Award

Utah State University forester Mike Kuhns, professor in USU's Department of Wildland Resources, received recognition for helping Utahns appreciate trees and learn about their benefits to our lives. Most Utahns have "probably picked up a tip or two about how these towering plants benefit our lives" thanks to Kuhns' educational efforts. The award honored his contributions to forestry education and public outreach since joining USU.

UsuRead article

USU Tree Browser

Utah State University developed the USU Tree Browser, a web-based interactive database accessible at http://www.treebrowser.org containing information on 241 native and introduced trees growing in Utah and the Intermountain West. The browser contains over a thousand full-color photographs and allows users to browse through comprehensive tree information. The database serves as a comprehensive resource for identifying and learning about trees throughout the region.

KslRead article