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Registered Charity
1071012
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What is an ancient tree? |
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The term ancient tree is one that is not capable of precise
definition but it encompasses trees defined by three guiding principles:
- trees of interest biologically, aesthetically or culturally because of
their age.
- trees in the ancient stage of their life.
- trees that are old relative to others of the same species
A veteran tree can be defined as: ' a tree that is of interest
biologically, culturally or aesthetically because of its age, size or
condition.' Some trees are instantly recognisable as veterans but many are
less obvious. |
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| Why are ancient trees
important? |
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All ancient trees are of historic interest; each
a survivor from the past, a relict of a former landscape. They are a
valuable part of our cultural heritage. The historic interest lies both in
the individual trees, each of which is a living document telling us of past
management practices and ways of life, and in the tree's place in the wider
countryside. |
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| What are the threats to ancient
trees? |
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Felling - to obtain the wood and timber, for
safety reasons, to increase tidiness, for change in land use (e.g.
development or agriculture) or for landscape reasons.
Change in land use (development or agriculture) or for landscape reasons.
Competition from surrounding trees both planted and naturally occurring (or
sudden release from competing trees) |
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| Why manage ancient trees? |
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Management of ancient trees is needed to ensure
that the threats already identified do not cause loss of the trees
associated with them.
The essential point is that trees and their situation are checked at regular
intervals and management carried out only if it is necessary. |
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