A tree-mendous idea to branch out into the world of mobile communications has taken root at a Wakefield country park.
QR codes have been installed on trees in the Arboretum at Newmillderdam so visitors can find out more about some of the more unusual species growing there.
When scanned with a smart phone, the codes give those taking a stroll information on 80 different types of tree in the Arboretum.
Users are sent to a webpage that includes how the tree got its name, the blossom, fruit, how tall it could grow and its country of origin.
The idea came after Wakefield Tree Warden Chairman, Roger Parkinson was asked a question by a member of the public that he didn’t know the answer to but the information was available online.
He said: “Many people visit this beautiful place and some want to know more about the trees in the collection.
“Producing a booklet for our large number of tree species would be difficult and expensive, so access to this excellent web information is ideal. Hopefully it will lead to a greater understanding and interest in trees and their benefits to people and wildlife.“
Wakefield Council has worked with the Tree Warden group to support the new technology.
Coun Maureen Cummings, Wakefield Council’s cabinet member for the Environment and Communities, said: “This is a brilliant and innovative way of using modern technology to improve visitor’s experience at Newmillerdam.
“I hope people will come along with friends, family members and their smart phones and have a go at using the codes.
“This is a great way to make spending time outdoors as enjoyable and interesting as possible.”
Some of the tree species growing at the park that have QR codes on include Alnus Cordata, Pride of India- Koelreuteria paniculata, Turkish Hazel – Corylus colurna and Acer freemaii - Autumn Blaze.
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