How can we better protect monumental trees in the Netherlands? This question was central to a study conducted by Terra Nostra, a knowledge center for tree and soil, commissioned by the Cultural Heritage Agency (RCE) and the Tree Foundation.
On Thursday, December 19, the findings and recommendations were presented to Nicole Boeijink of the Tree Foundation and Arjan de Zeeuw, director of knowledge & advice at the RCE.
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Monumental Trees
What are monumental trees? These trees are often old, beautiful, or rare. There are 15,000 registered trees in the National Register of Monumental Trees that are over 80 years old.
These trees greatly enhance our environment but are vulnerable. They sometimes must be removed for development projects or due to climate challenges. Awareness is essential to protect them.
Cultural Values of Old Trees
It’s vital to showcase the cultural values of old trees. They tell stories and have significance. These stories are crucial for future generations, connecting history and identity.
said Berthe Jongejan, landscape specialist at the RCE.
Fifteen monumental trees were selected for this study to understand what’s needed to preserve them for generations.
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Results
The owners of monumental trees include individuals, municipalities, estates, churches, and water boards. Their level of involvement and knowledge varies greatly. Well-visible trees tend to be better protected, while those with no function are often overlooked. Older trees provide more ecological value, yet preservation strategies differ across municipalities.
Recommendations
The researchers made recommendations for improving regulation, awareness, and management to enhance the quality and lifespan of monumental trees.
Concrete suggestions to various stakeholders, including the Tree Foundation and municipalities, include:
- Create a National Guideline for management of monumental trees, including a tree management plan.
- Develop a national list of honor trees with historical value and explore their potential as national heritage.
- Propose improvements to existing regulations, focusing on emergency felling policies.
- Awareness and education: increase public awareness and provide education about the importance of monumental trees.
- Establish objective criteria for historical and ecological value. Create an objective system for the Top-100 old trees designated as ‘Trees with High Heritage Value’ with maps and key features/stories.
Next Steps
This is the first comprehensive report that thoughtfully addresses the interplay between natural and heritage values of old trees. The five recommendations can now be made concrete, and we will shape this with the field stakeholders,
said Arjan de Zeeuw.
The report Monumental Trees can be read at: www.terranostra.nu.