Heritage tree

A heritage tree is typically a large, individual tree with unique value, which is considered irreplaceable. The major criteria for heritage tree designation are age, rarity, and size, as well as aesthetic, botanical, ecological, and historical value.^[1] Heritage tree ordinances are developed to place limits upon the removal of these trees; the ordinances are oriented towards a specific tree, not a woodland.^[2] Heritage trees in Singapore are protected by law under the Heritage Trees Scheme adopted on 17 August 2001. The oak is depicted as England's heritage tree.^[3]

Comfort Maple, in Pelham, Ontario

In the US, the first state-sponsored heritage tree program began in 1995 in Oregon with the Giant Sitka Spruce.^[4] In Iowa, the Living Heritage Tree Museum contains descendants of famous trees.^[5] In the state of Washington, there are several categories of heritage trees, such as Historical, Specimen, Rare, or Significant Grove.^[6]

The city of Portland, Oregon maintains a database of trees designated as heritage trees. ^[7]

References

1. Coates, Peter A. (2006). American Perceptions of Immigrant And Invasive Species: Strangers on the Land. University of California Press. pp. 140–. ISBN 978-0-520-24930-1. Retrieved 30 June 2012.
2. Giusti, Gregory A. (2005). A Planner's Guide For Oak Woodlands. ANR Publications. pp. 90–91. ISBN 978-1-879906-75-4. Retrieved 30 June 2012.
3. Waterton, Emma; Watson, Steve (31 May 2010). Culture, Heritage and Representation: Perspectives on Visuality and the Past. Ashgate Publishing, Ltd. pp. 152–. ISBN 978-0-7546-7598-3. Retrieved 30 June 2012.
4. Barnes, Christine (30 May 2004). Only in Oregon: Natural and Manmade Landmarks and Oddities. Farcountry Press. pp. 10–. ISBN 978-1-56037-292-9. Retrieved 30 June 2012.
5. Jones, Eric; Coffey, Dan; Thorkelson, Berit (10 November 2009). Iowa Curiosities: Quirky Characters, Roadside Oddities & Other Offbeat Stuff. Globe Pequot. pp. 195–. ISBN 978-0-7627-5419-9. Retrieved 30 June 2012.
6. Nolon, John R. (1 May 2003). Open Ground: Effective Local Strategies for Protecting Natural Resources. Environmental Law Institute. pp. 441–. ISBN 978-1-58576-055-8. Retrieved 30 June 2012.
7. Urban Forestry | The City of Portland, Oregon