News item | 03-05-2024 | 16:08
How can monumental trees be better protected in the Netherlands? This question is central to a study commissioned by the Cultural Heritage Agency (RCE) and the Tree Foundation. The research is carried out by Terra Nostra, knowledge workshop for trees and soil.
Monumental trees
Monumental trees have great significance for the quality of our living environment. At the same time they are vulnerable. Sometimes they have to make way for urban developments or new infrastructure. But things like climate change and ignorance can also cause decline.
The Tree Foundation maintains a register of monumental trees in the Netherlands. In many cases these are trees of great age combined with a special beauty or rarity value, or an image-defining function for the environment. There are 15,000 registered trees that are older than 80 years.
Examine fifteen monumental trees
The R.C.E and the national Tree Foundation want to provide insight into the opportunities, threats and bottlenecks for monumental trees in our country. Fifteen monumental trees spread across the country were selected for the research to get an idea of what it takes to ensure that such trees last for generations to come. Including the Sacred Oak in the Vrachelse Street in Den Hout, the lime tree at the bakery in Garyp and the plane tree on the Potgieterssingel in Zwolle. Three examples of monumental trees with a great age and special stories.
Heritage value of old trees
“Like R.C.E we think it is important to show the heritage values of old trees. Trees tell stories and everyone knows a tree that is meaningful. These stories are valuable for future generations. After all, the trees tell something about the history and identity of a particular place. With this research we figuratively expose the historical, ecological and policy roots. We want to know which buttons can be turned to better protect old trees,” says Berthe Jongejan project leader of the R.C.E.
“We want to gain insight into which conditions contribute to the quality of life of monumental trees in our country. The results of the research should take the desired care for centuries-old trees a step further,” says Joris Hellevoort, board member of the Tree Foundation. The Tree Foundation is pleased that the R.C.E makes the research possible.
Protection
How and whether monumental trees are protected in the Netherlands differs per municipality and owner. With this research the R.C.E and Tree Foundation raise awareness that monumental trees are of great value and significance.
The results of Terra Nostra’s research will be released at the end of this year.
Tags: Research protection monumental trees Netherlands News item
