CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Background and Rationale

Urban trees are one of the vital components subsisting in an urban forest, as

well as the greenspaces in a metropolis. Miller (1988) defined urban forest as the

sum of all woody and associated vegetation in and around dense human

settlements, ranging from small communities in rural settings to metropolitan

regions. Urban forests can strongly influence the physical/biological environment

and mitigate many impacts of urban development by moderating climate,

conserving energy, carbon dioxide and water, improving air quality, controlling

rainfall runoff and flooding, lowering noise levels, harboring wildlife, and

enhancing the attractiveness of cities (Dwyer et. al., 1992).

Depressively, the urban forest resources are declining and the benefits that

we could get are only a fraction of what they could be (Dwyer et al., 1992). To

overcome this situation, urban forests as well as greenspaces must be enhanced

through proper maintenance and management. Some of the problems that urban

forests and greenspaces experience are ineffective management and negligence

of proper maintenance activities of trees, shrubs and other vegetation in an urban

area. Due to these activities, it may result to the degradation and eventually the

loss of potential benefits from urban forests that the community can get. In
 2

achieving the good management and maintenance of urban forests, such

professionals are needed for planning and comprehensive analysis of

greenspaces. Trees on streets and in parks, however, are now recognized as

more than just pleasant features with associated maintenance costs; they are the

backbone of urban forests and ecosystem (Bassett, 2015). Also, Urban forest is

a multi-managerial system, nevertheless, the costs will be highly encouraged and

needed because it will serve as an investment to effectively manage and

maintain such urban forest.

Avilon Zoo is a 7.5-hectare (19 acre) zoo located in Barrio San Isidro,

Rodriguez, Rizal, Philippines. It is currently operated by the Avilon Wildlife

Conservation Foundation, which also operates the Ark Avilon Zoo. However, the

Avilon Wildlife Conservation Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to

significantly contribute to biodiversity conservation efforts through education and

wildlife research projects.

In terms of its collection of live animals, Avilon Zoo is currently the largest

zoological institution in the Philippines. A 7.5-hectare facility which houses more

than 3,000 specimens of exotic wildlife representing more than 500 species of

birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, freshwater fishes and invertebrates. The

zoo has a diverse collection of Philippine native and endemic fauna, most of

which have been bred successfully in captivity through Avilon's ex situ

conservation programs. Also, the zoo aims to be one of the Southeast Asia's

premiere wildlife facilities.

 3

On the other hand, in terms of its greenspace and landscape, Avilon Zoo has

a diverse species of trees, shrubs and palms. Several trees, shrubs and palms

can be found in the zoo which contribute in giving benefits such as relaxation,

stress-reliever, alleviating pollution and purifying air quality in the city. Moreover,

urban forests also play a key role in building a connection between nature and

people. In fact, urban forest in Avilon Zoo provides significant habitat and food for

local and migrating birds in which visitors are being attracted to.

Objectives of the Study

The general objective of this practicum report was to identify the

organizational management and maintenance practices of greenspaces in Avilon

Zoo, Rodriguez, Rizal.

Specifically, it aimed to:

1. Describe the site and identify the unit involved in greenspaces

management;

2. Document and assess greenspace management operations;

3. Identify and list down the species subsisting in the park; and

4. Recommend some measures if necessary to improve the management of

greenspaces.
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Significance of the study

This study aims to document and assess the greenspace management

and maintenance practices in Avilon Zoo, Rodriguez, Rizal. This is essential to

fully understand and realize the challenges the park encounters, also to

formulate and devise measures in improving the management and maintenance

operations of the sanitary and grounds management (SAGM) department of the

park. It also aims to be included in developing a management plan for the park.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The practicum was conducted at the Avilon Zoo, Rodriguez, Rizal, also

known as the Avilon Wildlife Conservation Foundation & School of Practical

Exotic Veterinary Management, Inc. from June 11, 2018 to July 20, 2018. The

practicum was concerned with the greenspace management and maintenance

practices done by the management of the park in maintaining their trees, palms

and shrubs. The different maintenance operations were observed, and some

were performed. Personal interview with some of the workers, specifically the

Sanitary and Grounds Management (SAGM) department, was also conducted to

further assess the operations. Moreover, the different trees, palms and shrubs

found within the area were inventoried and identified, except inside the

enclosures/exhibits.
 5

Some information were confidential and have not been gathered such as

budget allocation, capital outlay and personnel services. Also, the list of tools and

equipment was not gathered.

The length of the practicum period was not able to help in witnessing all

the maintenance operations due to a schedule the management follows in

conducting some of the maintenance activities such as fertilizer application,

insecticide application, soil cultivation and grass cutting.

 6

CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITEREATURE

Urban Trees

Planting of street trees has become very scientific and highly specialized,

that is why so many things must be taken into consideration when trees are

planted along the streets, it is most important to select the right trees and place

them properly for permanent growth and lasting beauty. In order to select the

right trees, an inventory must be taken of the existing street tree population, once

you know what you have, you can now begin to see what is necessary to

maintain the existing forest and where future trees can be planted, what varieties

should be selected, and what is required to ensure a long life for beneficial trees.

The inventory can also be used to project maintenance needs and overall health

of existing urban forest (Phillips, 1993).

According to Zube (1971), the first intentional use of public trees in cities

was inspired by the Baroque Gardens of France. These gardens were developed

in hunting preserves and consisted of wide pathways radiating from clearings in

the forest for shooting game during the hunt.

People living and working near trees and parks experience a host of positive

health and living standard benefits such as relief from environmental stresses of

cities caused by factors such as population density and pollution. Trees can
 7

improve the mental health of communities and relieve stress. Exposure to nature

and restorative environments increases sustained attentional capacity (Berto

2015).

Urban Forest

Urban forest, according to Miller (1988), may be defined as the sum of all

woody and associated vegetation in and around dense human settlements,

ranging from small communities in rural settings to metropolitan regions.

Moreover, this forest is the sum of street trees, residential trees, park trees, and

greenbelt vegetation. It includes trees on unused public and private land, trees in

transportation and utility corridors, and forests on watershed lands. Some of

these trees and forests were willfully planted and are carefully managed by their

owners, while others are accidents of land-use decisions, economics,

topography, and neglect. The urban forest is part and parcel of the human

environment, also, according to DeGraaf (1974), provides habitat for a great

diversity of wildlife in the city. Shafer and Moeller (1979) defined the urban forest

as "that portion of urban ecosystem that consists of forest vegetation, water, soil,

and wildlife in densely populated areas and adjacent lands."

Urban forest, as described by Andresen (1975), includes all woody

vegetation within the environs of all populated places, from the tiniest villages to

the largest cities. In this sense it includes not only trees within city limits but trees

on associated lands that contribute to the environment of populated places such

as greenbelts, municipal watersheds, recreation sites, and roadsides. Moreover,

 8

Andresen (1975) described the urban forests of metropolitan New York as

"forests that invade the abandoned fields of the countryside and recolonize

deserted lots and back alleys; forests that yield but do not surrender to the

building contractor and the tract developer and the forests that, despite constant

abuse, provide continual bounty."

Nationwide, the urban forest covers an estimated 69 million acres (28 million

ha) (Economic Research Service, USDA, 1969). However, for those who cannot

perceive the urban forest as a partial abstraction (and must have acreages), a

solid case can be made for including the total acreage of city environs. The

rationale here is that roads, streams, lakes, meadows, and other open areas are

not subtracted from acreages in National Forests or other large forested areas.

By this reasoning we arrive at an estimated 69 million acres (28 million ha) as the

total area of the urban forests in the nation (Grey, 1978).

Moreover, in the urban setting, parks are probably the most relatable areas

as forests. Many are magnificent examples of manmade forests while other

examples have been developed in residual natural wooded areas. Parks vary

from tiny green spots in central business districts to large acreages, which are

often beyond the city limits. There are few parks without trees, and passive

recreational areas are usually heavily forested. Most parks are publicly owned,

but there are also recreation areas on private lands owned by churches,

industries, labor unions, and other organizations. Most public parks are
 9

municipally owned and managed. However, there are occasional examples of

county, state, and federally owned parks in or adjacent to cities (Grey, 1978).

In addition to this, Grey (1978) stated that the urban forest can be both

natural and manmade. The composition of urban forests is influenced primarily

by physical elements. The limiting factor is which species will grow in an area

and ranges from hundreds of species in the south to a handful in the high

elevations of the Rocky Mountains. However, within the limits imposed by nature

are the personal, social and economic factors that influence human choice. While

often interrelated, these factors may be summarized as purpose of function,

popular species, public control, socioeconomic factors, mobility and nostalgia.

The urban forest is important to the city dweller in many ways. Its trees

provide shade, beauty, and a long list of other benefits. In most instances, these

benefits are taken for granted. Indeed, the urban dweller may not even be aware

of many or even relate to them. The various benefits can be grouped under four

broad categories such as climate amelioration, engineering uses, architectural

uses and aesthetic uses (Grey, 1978).Depressively, Dwyer et. al., (1992)

disputed that the urban forest resources are declining and the benefits that we

could get are only a fraction of what they could be.

Urban Forestry

Urban Forestry deals with the management of all wooded vegetation within

urban areas. As defined by Miller (1988), urban forestry as the establishment and

care of trees and associated vegetation in an urban area. The Society of

 10

American Foresters (1972) offered the definition of urban forestry, a specialized

branch of forestry that has as its objective the cultivation and management of

trees for their present and potential contribution to the physiological, sociological

and economic well-being of urban society. Also, according to the Society of

American Forester's Dictionary of Forester (1998 edition), urban forestry is

defined as 'the art, science, and technology of managing trees and forest

resources in and around urban community ecosystems for the physiological,

sociological, economic, and aesthetic benefits trees provide society.' Moreover,

inherent in this function is a comprehensive program designed to educate the

urban populace on the role of trees and related plants in the urban environment.

In its broadest sense, urban forestry embraces a multi-managerial system that

includes municipal watersheds, wildlife habitats, outdoor recreation opportunities,

landscape design, recycling of municipal wastes, tree care in general, and the

future production of wood fiber as raw material.

Stewart (1974) gives a briefer definition of urban forestry, stating that "Urban

forestry is the application of basic forest management principles in areas subject

to concentrations of population." Carlozzi (1971) simply states that "all forestry is

urban forestry" in an urban society. However, the Cooperative Forestry Act

(1978) defines urban forestry as the planning, establishment, protection and

management of trees and associated plants, individually, in small groups, or

under forest conditions within cities, their suburbs, and towns. This definition
 11

includes the individual tree, and it is at this point that urban forestry and

arboriculture become one.

Nobles (1980) elaborates on this theme by stating: "Urban forestry can and

should complement arboriculture." He further remarks: "Many of us feel that

urban forestry is more than arboriculture. We do not feel the two terms have the

same meaning. Arboriculture is an important functional of urban forestry,

probably the most important one.” Caldwell (1971) considered trees and other

vegetation to be important elements in the restoration and preservation of open

space in our cities. On the other hand, DeGraaf (1974) observed that "When

urban forestry and wildlife management become part of a holistic effort to give

people jobs, self-respect, safety, and health, urban residents will probably have

greater respect for trees and wildlife."

Urban forestry as developed in Canada does not deal entirely with city trees

or with single tree management, but rather with tree management in the entire

area influenced and utilized by the urban population. This area naturally includes

the watershed areas and the recreational areas serving the urban population, as

well as the areas lying between these service areas and politically designated

urban areas and its trees. The politically established boundaries for municipalities

rarely include the entire geographical area influenced by urbanization

(Jorgensen, 1970).
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Roles of Urban Trees

Nowadays, woodland, woods and trees are important to people especially

through symbolizing local, personal and cultural meanings. They provide

aesthetic enjoyment and create a pleasant environment for different outdoor

activities. Woodland can provide an experience of nature in the middle of urban

life. Particularly, old woodland with big trees may provide urban people with the

opportunity to recover from daily stress, revive memories and regain confidence.

Also, there is an important educational value of urban forest such as contact with

trees to children, can help people learn about nature and natural processes in an

otherwise artificial environment (Tyrvainen et. al., 2003).

Moreover, Tyrvainen et. al., (2003) stated that urban trees and woodland

also contribute to an attractive green townscape and thus communicate the

image of a positive, nature-oriented city. Indirectly, urban trees and forests can

promote tourism and enhance economic development. At the local level, trees

contribute to the quality of housing and working environments and their benefits

are reflected in property values. The same urban woodland areas and trees may

have multiple benefits that reinforce each other. Additionally, there is need to

provide more knowledge on the roles of urban woodland and trees in

improvement of environment and relate this to their social functions such as

fostering mental and physical health. Moreover, urban forests also play a key role

in building a connection between nature and people. The availability of urban

forests close to cities, in fact, allows citizens to experience forests without going
 13

far from place where they live, thus helping strengthen people's link with nature

and increase public awareness on the importance of preserving natural

resources.

Trees play an important ecological role within the urban environment, as well

as support improve public health and provide aesthetic benefits to cities. Urban

trees improve air quality, cool local air temperatures, filter and retain storm water,

sequester carbon, and contribute to healthier and more beautiful cities (Nowak

et. al., 2008; McPherson et. al., 2003).

In addition to providing clear benefits to humans, trees provide essential

habitat and food sources for wildlife in a landscape increasingly fragmented by

urban development. Even small urban parks provide significant habitat for local

and migrating birds (Rega et. al., 2015). Trees on streets and in parks are now

recognized as more than just pleasant features with associated maintenance

costs; they are the backbone of urban forests and ecosystem (Bassett, 2015).

The benefits of urban trees are not only well recognized by the academic

community, but also by municipalities and institutions around the country and the

world (Seamans, 2013). Also, the benefits of trees can vary widely depending on

the context in which they are planted (Hale et. al., 2015).

Roles of Urban Forest

According to Munishi et. al., (2008), in relation to climate change mitigation,

urban forest can store large amount of carbon especially when they are well

managed. There is a need for encouraging more tree planting in urban

 14

ecosystems for carbon mitigation especially as the world community turns to

terrestrial vegetation management as a means of mitigating CO2 emissions.

Urban forests in return, have several roles which are important not only to

the environment but also to the people. Dwyer et. al., (1991), believed that the

importance of urban trees and forest is grounded in some very deep emotional

values that sometimes even have a spiritual quality. In addition to this, Dwyer et.

al., (1992) stated that urban forests can strongly influence the physical/biological

environment and mitigate many impacts of urban development by moderating

climate, conserving energy, carbon dioxide and water, improving air quality,

controlling rainfall runoff and flooding, lowering noise levels, harboring wildlife,

and enhancing the attractiveness of cities.

According to Tidwell (2016), he reminded that urban forests provide not only

direct benefits (such as air pollution removals) but also social benefits such as

reduction of crime rate and increase in human health. Series of studies have

shown that an increase in the tree canopy density reduced crime rates in

Baltimore, Maryland, as well as drug use and theft in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Urban forest can also improve human health by reducing levels of stress,

preventing obesity, and accelerating the recovery of patients from illness. In

addition, planting trees in poor neighborhoods foster environmental justice within

cities.
 15

Arboriculture

Arboriculture deals with the cultivation of trees and woody plants. Harris

(1983) defined arboriculture as being "primarily concerned with the planting and

care of trees and more peripherally concerned with shrubs, woody vines, and

ground-cover plants." Also, it is an area of specialization within the overall field of

horticulture, which is defined as the cultivation of plants for food and aesthetic

purposes. He also added, urban forestry as a specialized branch of forestry that

involves the "management of trees in urban areas on larger than an individual

basis." Just as arboriculture is a specialized discipline within horticulture, so

urban forestry is a specialized discipline within the profession of forestry.

Arboriculture and urban forestry as defined so far appear to split rather neatly at

the individual tree level. Arboriculture deals with the tree as the basic

management unit, while urban forestry treats the stand as the basic management

unit. Andresen (1978) supports this concept, stating: "In simplistic terms,

arboriculture deals with individual trees and urban forestry addresses tree

aggregates."

In urban communities, arboriculture plays an important role in the health of

the biological ecosystem (Kuo, 2003). Moreover, Kuo (2003) believed that

arboriculture helps in providing habitat for wildlife and creates a more hospitable

setting for many species.

 16

Arboriculture as an art, harnesses the great potential of trees as important

component of the urban built environment, guides in the selection of the species

best for the urban environment, provides the how of using trees for a particular

purpose based on the tree's functions and roles, and it teaches the efficient and

cost-effective cultural management practices for the urban trees to become

friendly components or assets of the urban landscape (Palijon, 1997).

Moreover, according to Palijon (1997), the proper arboricultural practices

follow a sequential process and known to be divided into five (5) major phases

which include sub-processes, the following phases are: (a) pre-planting phase,

(b) planting phase, (c) care and maintenance phase, (d) removal and

replacement and (e) utilization of organic wastes.

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CHAPTER III

Description and Schedule of Activities

The practicum was conducted in Avilon Zoo, also known as the Avilon

Wildlife Conservation Foundation& School of Practical Exotic Veterinary

Management, Inc. located at the Municipality of Rodriguez, Rizal from June 11,

2018 until July 20, 2018.

An agreement letter together with a program letter were submitted to the

curator and conservation program director of Avilon Zoo.

A proposal plan and a meeting were made at the Kiosk Conference Room

(Head Quarter) in Avilon Zoo with the curator and conservation program director

of Avilon Zoo named Emmanuel F. Rafael. The proposal plan was composed of

planned activities held in Avilon Zoo, Rodriguez, Rizal, documenting and

addressing the improvement and assessment of greenspace management of the

park.

A four (4) hours land travel from University of the Philippines Los Baños

Campus to Avilon Zoo, Rodriguez, Rizal was made. The arrival was on June 11,

2018, arrived at 12pm. During this day, a meeting with the director and

administrator, Sir Joaquin Yok Lin Gaw, together with Sir Emmanuel F. Rafael,

the proposal plan of study was presented and discussed by the students.
 18

On the first day of practicum, June 11, 2018, a short meeting and an

introduction regarding the accommodation matters were conducted.Figure 1

shows the activities done during the fieldwork, on the 11th dayof June 2018, site

reconnaissance was done, followed by the interview to the sanitary and grounds

management (SAGM) department, monitoring of maintenance activities in the

site, analysis of greenspace maintenance problems and finally formulated some

recommendations.

Site Reconnaissance

Interview among Greenspace Management

workers

Documentation of Maintenance Activities in the

Site

Analysis of Greenspace Maintenance Problems

and Best Practices

Formulation of Recommendations

Figure 1. Activities done during the fieldwork

 19

CHAPTER IV

DOCUMENTATION AND TECHNICAL ANALYSIS OF GREENSPACE

DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT

Description of the site

Avilon Zoo is a private park that is being operated by Avilon Wildlife

Conservation Foundation, which also operates the Ark Avilon Zoo. Avilon Wildlife

Conservation Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to significantly

contribute to biodiversity conservation efforts through education and wildlife

research projects. The park is home to 72 species of trees with 931 individuals

and 23 species of palms with 642 individuals.

Climate and Topography

Avilon Zoo is located at Barrio San Isidro, Rodriguez, Rizal, Philippines

(see Figure 2). Rizal’s topography is a combination of valleys and mountains; flat

low-lying areas on the western portion which are mostly urbanized and

populated, and the rugged ridges and rolling hills which form part of the Sierra

Madre Mountain ranges in the eastern portion. The area is an endowed with

Type 1 climate, with two pronounced seasons, dry season from November to

April and wet season for the rest of the year. The area has an average of 27.4°C

annual temperature, with minimum temperature of 22.8°C and a maximum of

32.0°C. The area receives in average rainfall of 2,383.0 mm annually.

 20

It is bounded by Sierra Madre Mountain Ranges and Quezon Province in

the east, the province of Laguna in the southwest, the province of Bulacan in the

north, Metropolitan Manila in the west-northwest portion and by Laguna de Bay in

south/south-western portion.

Figure 2. Satellite image of Avilon Zoo via Google Earth

 21

Description of the Greenspace Unit

The maintenance and management of greenspace in Avilon Zoo is being

operated by the Sanitary and Grounds Management (SAGM) Department. The

unit is being headed and supervised by Sir Reynaldo De Guzman. He has only

attended high school and has been the supervisor of the zoo for almost 17 years.

In 17 years as the supervisor of the park, he has only gained his knowledge in

maintenance and management of plants and trees from his experiences himself.

There were 7 hired workers that have a minimum wage rate per day and

were being trained by Sir De Guzman; Marvin De Guzman as the leadman of the

team, while Maljon Luna, Jounex Baclao, Jennuel Magan, Roen Domanico and

Arcel Golani were the sub-workers. These workers are assigned to manage and

maintain the shrubs and trees in Avilon Zoo. Moreover, the department is not just

assigned in managing and maintenance of the zoo, but also in the sanitary

measures needed in the zoo such as cleaning the animal's wastes.

Figure 3 shows the organizational chart of the maintenance department of

Avilon zoo, the sanitary and grounds management department, including the

owner, curator and park manager.

 22

Implementer

Figure 3. Organizational Chart of the Maintenance Department in Avilon Zoo

 23

Landscape Zones and other Greenspaces

Trees and Palms

The trees and palms in Avilon Zoo are numerous and increasing. Initially,

all of the trees and palms in the area are planted by the owner, Sir Joaquin Yok

Lin Gaw in which he is fond of plants, especially the flowering plants. There are

931 individual trees and 642 individual palms that can be found in Avilon Zoo.

The most abundant tree in the area is the Big Leaf Mahogany (Swietenia

macrophylla) which is roughly about 245 individual trees, while the most

abundant palm is the MacArthur’s Palm (Ptychosperma macarthurii) which totals

approximately to 180 individuals.

On the other hand, other tree species found in the area are: Abang-abang

(Leea acuminata), Acacia (Acacia auriculiformis), African Tulip (Spathodea

campanulata), Alagau (Premna odorata), Anonang (Cordia dichotoma), Antipolo

(Artocarpus blancoi), Bagalunga (Melia dubia), Baobab (Baobab), Bagras

(Eucalyptus deglupta), Bayabas (Psidium guajava), Bignai Pugo (Antidesma

pentandrum), Binayuyu (Antidesma ghaesembilla), Bo Tree (Ficusr eligiosa),

Caimito (Chrysophyllum cainito), Calachuchi (Plumeria acuminata), Champakang

Puti (Michelia alba), Chico (Manilkara sapota), Chinese Box (Murraya

paniculata), Danupra (Toona sureni), Dao (Dracontomelon dao), Duhat (Syzigium

cumini), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), Fire Tree (Delonix regia),

Fringon (Bauhinia monandra), Gmelina (Gmelina arborea), Golden Shower

(Cassia fistula), Guyabano (Annona muricata), Hauili (Ficus septica), Hongkong

 24

Tree (Bauhinia blakeana), Ilang-ilang (Cananga odorata), India Rubber (Ficus

elastica), Indian Lanutan (Polyalthia longifolia), Kakauate (Gliricidia sepium),

Kalios (Streblus asper), Kalukoi (Ficus callosa), Kamachile (Pithecellobium

dulce), Kamagong (Diospyros blancoi), Kamias (Averrhoa bilimbi), Kasuy

(Anacardium occidentale), Kusibeng (Sapindus saponaria), Lansones (Lansium

domesticum), Lukban (Citrus maxima), Malapapaya (Polyscias nodosa),

Malubago (Talipariti tiliaceum), Mangga (Mangifera indica), Mangium (Acacia

mangium), Mulberry (Morus alba), Nangka (Artocarpus heterophyllus), Narrow

Leaf Fig (Ficus binnendijkii), Pandakaki (Tabernaemontana pandacaqui), Prickly

Narra (Pterocarpus indicus forma echinatus), Rain Tree (Albizia saman),

Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum), Sablot (Litsea glutinosa), Salisi (Ficus

benjamina), Sampalok (Tamarindus indica), Santol (Sandoricum koetjape),

Sineguelas (Spondias purpurea), Smooth Narra (Pterocarpus indicus forma

indicus), Talisai (Terminalia catappa), Teak (Tectona grandis), Tibig (Ficus nota)

and White Fig (Ficus virens).

Other palm species found in the area are: Abiki (Pinanga copelandii),

Anahau (Saribus rotundifolius), Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifritzi), Bicol

Abiki (Pinanga bicolana), Bunga (Areca catechu), Buri (Corypha utan), Chinese

Dwarf Bamboo (Bambusa glaucescens), Coconut (Cocos nucifera), Date Palm

(Phoenix dactylifera), Fortune Plant (Dracaena fragrans), Foxtail Palm (Wodyetia

bifurcata), Kaong (Arenga pinnata), Kawayan Kiling (Bambusa vulgaris),

Malasambal (Dracaena angustifolia), Manila Palm (Adonidia merrillii), Palmera

(Dypsis lutescens), PandanDagat (Pandanus tectorius), Rattan (Calamus

 25

deerratus), Rhapis (Rhapis excelsa), Royal Palm (Roystonea regia), Salaguisog

(Angiopteris palmiformis), Takipan (Caryota rumphiana var. philippinensis) and

Traveller’s Palm (Ravenala madagascariensis).

These trees and palms improve the aesthetics in the area which can help

in alleviating stress. Since the zoo is composed of animals and infrastructures in

the area, they also help in balancing the scenery of the zoo by providing colors

that are attractive and relaxing to the eyes. Also, these plants help in reducing

the heat island effect that the city is experiencing and providing a more pleasing

quality of air.

Greenspace Management Process and Practices

Landscape Design

Landscaping is an advantage of a company because it is a complex task

which requires creativity and hardwork. It is a combination of knowledge and

creativity acquired in different fields of study such as arboriculture, landscape

architecture, as well as urban forestry. Moreover, the author does not observed

the landscaping activity.

The sanitary and grounds management (SAGM) department responsible

in managing and maintaining the greenspaces in Avilon Zoo does not have a

landscape architect in their team. The owner, which acts as the landscape

architect of the zoo, is the one who commands to the supervisor of the

department. Also, the supervisor is very dependent to the command of the owner

and will relay to the other members of the team on what they will do.
 26

Maintenance

From a management perspective, maintenance of the urban forest may be

defined as the implementation of practices necessary for reasonable health, vigor

and compatibility with the urban environment. Maintenance involves all practices

between planting and removal (Grey, 1978). In terms of maintenance in the park,

the author encountered an everyday maintenance but not a good quality that the

park needs.

Pruning of Trees and Shrubs

Pruning is the primary maintenance activity; meanwhile proper pruning is

a specialized practice requiring knowledge of plant growth and response (Miller,

1988). The supervisor is very dependent on the queue of the owner of the zoo; in

fact, pruning is prohibited if command does not come from the owner.

Figure 4 shows the cleaning of Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) leaving

branch stubs done by the sanitary and grounds management (SAGM)

department. It can be considered as one of the pruning methods where removal

of dead or non-beneficial branches is done. It can be seen that the cut is

improper and evident sign that they have improper arboricultural practice when it

comes to pruning. Also, the maintenance team is not using coal tar after

conducting this activity.

 27

Figure 4. Cut after pruning of Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla)

Meanwhile, topping is sometimes done by the management of the zoo.

Topping is the indiscrimate removal of a tree's crown, leaving large branch stubs

vulnerable to decay and resulting in a profusion of adventitious branches. The

reasons for such improper pruning are based largely on the fear that during

storms tall trees will fall on houses or other property (Grey, 1978).
 28

Figure 5 shows the topping of Indian lanutan (Polyalthia longifolia) where

the maintenance team does this kind of practice if the tree really bothers inside

the cage of the animals, or the tree is too high and harmful to the visitors.

Figure 5. Topping of Indian lanutan (Polyalthia longifolia)

According to ANSI A300, “topping is considered as an unacceptable

pruning practice, yet making heading-cuts is justifiable to meet a valid objective;

1) start a pollard system; 2) repaired damaged trees; 3) reduce risk; 4) shorten

an over-extended limb, when there are no suitable laterals to cut to; and 5)

achieve adequate utility clearance.”

 29

In the case of the management of the park, based on the author’s

observation, the practice that the sanitary and grounds management department

is doing will be under the 3rd objective. It has been met because some of the

visitors are walking along the trails and it is justifiable to do.

Landscape Implementation

Procurement of plants and other materials

In landscape implementation, frequent problems may come in a company

whether they will buy the plants to be used in landscaping or they will generate

their own nursery to have a lesser cost.

Edlin (1913) stated that having your own nursery may give you great

satisfaction from overcoming many technical difficulties and from being able to

say that you do it all by yourself in starting and growing from seeds.

In Avilon Zoo, initially, some of the plants were raised from buying in other

places (such as Thailand and in other countries) by the owner other than raising

plants from nurseries. He really invests plants from other countries just for the

sake of the development of greenspaces in the area (see Figure 6). On the other

hand, the owner invested and established also some nurseries that will help in

raising ready-to-plant species of plants that comprise diversity; in which some of

these are in the pot or container and polyethylene bags (see Figures 7 and 8).

Also, there are three (3) nurseries which they called as “Greenhouse” (see Figure

9), one of these has plant boxes inside the plant nursery.
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Figure 6. First Plant Nursery in Avilon Zoo

Figure 7.Second Plant Nursery using different pots and polyethylene bags
 31

Figure 8. Second Plant Nursery viewing the diverse plants

Figure 9.Third Plant Nursery (Greenhouse)

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Planting and Establishment

According to Miller (1988), the primary objectives of a good street

management plan should be to maximize public benefits from street trees and to

minimize public expense in achieving these benefits. Street tree management

involves three primary functions: planting, maintenance, and removal. Planting

includes the identification of a site in need of planting, selecting and planting the

appropriate species on that site, and may include post-planting activities such as

watering and fertilization. Also, Miller (1988) stated that scheduling of these

management activities should be on a priority basis to maximize community

benefits and minimize public inconvenience or hazards. An inventory is essential

to locate planting sites, identify management needs, and to locate hazardous

trees in need of repair or removal.

Planting is perhaps the most publicly acceptable management need of the

urban forest (Grey, 1978). However, transplanting is the method where the plants

are being removed from original place and transferring in another area. Figure 10

shows the transplanting which was commonly monitored than planting since it is

the need of the zoo.

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Figure 10. Transplanting of Rhapis (Rhapis excelsa)

Landscape Care and Maintenance

Water Management

Watering is one of the most important methods in maintenance and

management of urban greenspaces. According to the supervisor, Sir Rey, the

schedule of watering the plants is in the morning around 8am to 9am when the

sun is not striking that much to plants. Also, watering is being conducted in the

afternoon at around 2pm. Moreover, they practice frequent watering every day,

especially during the summer season. However, they are not conducting

watering during the rainy season when the water is abundant (see Figure 11).
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Figure 11. Watering of plants in the morning and afternoon

Weed Management

Weeding is not an intricate method, but this is where the unwanted plants

are being removed. Papaya (Carica papaya), according to the supervisor, Sir

Rey and the owner of the zoo, Sir Gaw, is considered as weed in the zoo (see

Figure 12). Mainly due to its relevance in terms of edibleness of papaya, the

workers are intended to harvest it for fodder for themselves, rather than for

animals’ food. Also, Figure 13 shows the weeding on rock wall using hands and

using ladder when there are weeds beyond the reach of the height of a man.
 35

Figure 12. Weeding of (Carica papaya) in the second plant nursery

Figure 13. Weeding on rock wall

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Trimming and thinning of Landscape Plants

Trimming is important in maintenance and management since it controls

the size of the plant; removing excess leaves of the plant, also it helps in

maintaining its shape which reflects in giving such aesthetics of the plant. The

workers decide according to what the owner wants regarding its shape and size.

The supervisor is the one who decides whether what and when the trimming

should be done. Trimming is usually done manually using hands, bolo and

pruning shears. Also, thinning is observed in the site where the maintenance

team removes the excess crown density of plants (see Figure 14).

Figure 14. From left to right: Trimming of Sundang hari (Tradescanthia

spathacea) and thinning of Kalios (Streblus asper)
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Cleaning and Disposal

Removal

Removal (which includes utilization and disposal) of materials from the

urban forest is an important management need. Materials that must be removed

are dead trees, hazardous trees (physically hazardous and those that harbor

potentially epidemic insects and diseases), overcrowded trees, pruning debris,

storm debris, stumps, leaves, and obnoxious fruits (Grey, 1978). Figure 15

shows the removal of debris after pruning activity by collecting the pre-collected

debris that are set-aside and placing inside the van for collection.

Figure 15. Removal of debris from pruning

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Cleaning and Disposal

Cleaning is one of the significant methods to be used in maintenance and

management of greenspaces. Cleaning, using electric blower is the everyday

duty of the workers because of leaf litter due to wind and other environmental

factors. Figure 16 shows the cleaning of leaf litter and other wastes due to wind.

The collected leaf litter will eventually be disposed in the designated temporary

composting area.

Figure 16. Cleaning of leaf litter using electric blower

 39

Utilization of Organic Wastes

The management and maintenance of the Avilon zoo has their own

temporary composting area. The wastes are being collected and transferred to

the vacant lot beside the parking area for processing, which will eventually be

placed at the temporary composting area to be used to some plants. Moreover,

the use of compost is every after a year when the plants were already

decomposed by microorganisms; composts are produced by static pile

composting (see Figure 17).

Figure 17. Temporary composting area and composed produced from static
pile composting
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Summary of Activities

Table 1 shows the summary of the activities done in Avilon Zoo indicating

the greenspace maintenance operations observed, frequency and

materials/inputs used. The maintenance practices comprise the four

management strategies; stress management, hazard management, aesthetic

management and utilization of organic wastes.

Table1. Greenspace Maintenance Operations Observed

MAINTENANCE
PRACTICES FREQUENCY MATERIALS/INPUTS

STRESS MANAGEMENT
Watering Upon needed Water hose
Weeding Upon needed Itak/Dulos/Hands
Fertilization/Nutrition Upon needed Hormex, Osmocote, Anaa
Pesticide Application Upon needed Malathion, Cymbush

HAZARD MANAGEMENT
Staking/Guying Upon needed Used hose
Pruning Upon needed Chainsaw/Scythe/Itak
Topping Upon needed Chainsaw
AESTHETIC
MANAGEMENT
Cleaning Everyday Electric Blower
Removal of debris from Upon needed Use of Van for collection
pruning
Transplanting Upon needed Shovel

UTILIZATION OF ORGANIC
WASTES

Static Pile Composting Upon needed Fruits/Leaves/Branches

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CHAPTER V

GREENSPACE MAINTENANCE PROBLEMS

Despite of having tools and other equipment for maintenance of

greenspaces, a few problems were still encountered in Avilon Zoo.

One of the problems encountered regarding the maintenance of

greenspaces is that they lack some equipment and tools. The supervisor is very

dependent on the queue of the owner in relation to arboricultural activities to be

done. Also, they practice minimal pruning activities, in fact, there are several

large trees that need to be pruned. If unwanted branches were not pruned, it can

be hazardous to people walking around the zoo, also can cause damage to

infrastructures and vehicles passing the way. These branches can also be a risk

whenever there are typhoons. Moreover, the dead trees were not intended for

removal, rather than to be aesthetically attraction for flowering plants by the

owner of the Zoo intended for the visitors.

Another problem is the negligence of some arboricultural practices done

by the Sanitary and Grounds Management (SAGM) department in managing and

maintenance of their trees and shrubs in the zoo; however, the department

seems large in scope of their work in the zoo. This can cause further damage

and injuries to trees and shrubs present in the zoo; also, may lead to infections

and even death.

 42

Lastly, they lack personnel expert in arboriculture, horticulture and urban

forester. The sanitary and grounds management team finds it hard to monitor

and maintain the area regularly; in fact, the supervisor is not only involved in the

sanitary measures of the animals in the zoo, but also in greenspace

management and maintenance.

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CHAPTER VI

CONCLUSION

Avilon Zoo, Rodriguez, Rizal is a private park that is being operated by

Avilon Wildlife Conservation Foundation. Also, the park is being managed and

maintained by the sanitary and grounds management (SAGM) department, in

which the team is also involved in the sanitary measures needed in the zoo such

as cleaning of animal's wastes. The greenspace management department has a

total of 7 workers in their team. The park is home to 931 species of trees and 642

species of palms. However, the most abundant tree in the area is the Big Leaf

Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla) which totalled to 245 individual trees, while

the most abundant palm is the MacArthur’s Palm (Ptychosperma macarthurii)

which totalled to approximately 180 individuals. These trees and palms improve

the aesthetics in the area which can help in alleviating stress. They also help in

balancing the scenery of the zoo by providing colors that are attractive and

relaxing to the eyes, also these help in reducing the heat island effect that the

city is experiencing and providing a more pleasing quality of air.

The park does not have their own architect but the owner himself acts as

the landscape architect of the whole park. Therefore, the supervisor of the park is

very dependent on the command of the owner of the park. In terms of

maintenance, the management team conducts improper arboricultural practices

such as pruning and topping. Also, some practices consist of planting and
 44

establishment, water management, trimming, weed management, and cleaning

and disposal. There are three (3) plant nurseries and one (1) temporary

composting area which are useful in maintenance and management of

greenspaces in the area.

However, the problems encountered were lack of equipment and tools,

negligence of some arboricultural practices and lack personnel expert in

arboriculture, horticulture and urban forestry needed to effectively maintain and

manage such greenspaces properly.

 45

CHAPTER VII

RECOMMENDATIONS

In order to maintain the aesthetics and benefits that the greenspace

provides, it will need the proper care and management of some professionals

such as arborists, horticulturists, and urban foresters.

Avilon Zoo should follow standard practices such as ANSI A300, and hire

professionals in order to perform such excellent maintenance and management

activities. Though, it needs additional expenses, in return, it will be an investment

since these professionals will be responsible for the conservation of the

greenspaces in the zoo.

In addition, the management should invest in trainings on proper

maintenance of greenspaces regularly. It will help in improving the technical

know-how of the workers and learn important concepts in order to effectively

maintain greenspace properly.

In preventing these unexpected problems to occur, these steps are

important to eliminate such injuries and damage to trees and shrubs.

 46

CHAPTER VIII

PRACTICUM INSIGHTS

This practicum in Avilon Zoo, Rodriguez, Rizal enabled the author to explore

the world beyond its limits, hands-on experiences in maintenance of landscape

and learn new things out of his comfort zones. Through this, he enabled to

identify the organizational management responsible in management and

maintenance of greenspaces in Avilon Zoo, and assess the different

management operations done by the sanitary and grounds management (SAGM)

department. Also, it enabled the author to identify the plants in the zoo which

helps him in practicing for future work experience. Moreover, the author enabled

to create camaraderie not just among the other practicumers, but also to the

workers of the said greenspace maintenance team, from the owner of the zoo

down to the specific workers, as well as the other staff involve in other tasks in

the zoo. Lastly, it enabled the author to identify and analyze the problems the

park encountered which gave him the opportunity to recommend some measures

to these problems all the way he can.

 47

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