Presentation of the book Urban Trees of Cuenca, a recognition guide
The University of Azuay through the Institute of Sectional Regime Studies of Ecuador IERSE together with the Azuay Herbarium and its Publishing House, on November 9, carried out the presentation of the book “Urban Trees of Cuenca: Recognition Guide” written by the authors Omar Delgado, Danilo Minga, Mayra Jimenez, Nubia Guzmán and Emanuel Martínez.
This research arises from the inventory of the trees that cover the urban area of the city, both on the banks of the Yanuncay and Tomebamba rivers, as well as in 132 parks and at the University of Azuay. The census was carried out from 2017 to February 2023, by the Institute of Sectional Regime Studies of Ecuador (IERSE), together with the Azuay Herbarium (HA), University of Azuay.
At the launch event, our rector, Francisco Salgado, shared a few words with the public, highlighting that this book is an example of the joint work of a committed university community, a community that thinks, feels and acts, contributing significantly to the city management and the preservation of its natural heritage.
Likewise, Raffaella Ansaloni, vice-rector for research, highlighted the experience and knowledge of the herbarium and IERSE staff, who have captured the panorama of the trees both in the city and its surroundings. The book is enriched with detailed maps and beautiful photographs, highlighting the importance of the rivers as the soul of Cuenca and the trees that grow on its banks as its lungs.
This research not only offers valuable knowledge about urban flora, but also allows us to establish space-society dimensions in which we currently find ourselves. It invites us to consider, in a comprehensive manner, urban tree planting, appreciating its environmental and social benefits.
