What are the Ages of Trees in Your Neighborhood?:
By John F. Dwyer, Research Associate
The Morton Arboretum
Trees are often a distinctive feature of the urban landscape. Large trees are especially prominent, have a particularly significant influence on the urban landscape, and symbolize permanence amid change. We are curious about the age of these venerable giants as an indication of the history they have witnessed. Their ages also offer a clue to their significance by indicating how long we might have to wait for a replacement tree to reach their size.
To get some indication of the age of urban trees, Kerstin Von der Heide, Forester, Village of Downers Grove, Illinois measured tree diameters (4.5 feet above the ground) and counted the number of annual rings on the stumps of 328 trees representing 24 species removed from along village streets. The oldest was a 167-year-old white oak that measured 26.2 inches in diameter. All trees older than 135 years were white oak or burr oak. The largest tree measured was a 52.2 inch American elm 110 years old. Other trees over 40' in diameter were willow, green ash, or honeylocust.
Showing posts with label heritage trees. Show all posts
Showing posts with label heritage trees. Show all posts
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Man to donate tree-covered parcel to city for arboretum, possible tree nursery; Central Point, OR
Man to bequeath tree-covered acreage to city MailTribune.com:
CENTRAL POINT — An acre and a half of trees near Crater High School will one day serve as an arboretum, adding to the city's inventory of park space.
The property is the subject of a 'life deed,' in which property owner Wally Skyrman will pass the property on to the city at his death. The site has at times served as a tree nursery.
Skyrman, who declined to be interviewed, has owned the property, which was homesteaded by his family in the 1800s, for 50 years.
Parks and Recreation Manager Matt Samitore said the land is 'a beautiful site' with an extensive collection of mature trees, including some that could be recognized under the state's Heritage Tree program.
Samitore said preliminary plans for the site include an arboretum and educational center, and potentially an area for tree propagation that could provide replacement trees for the city's parks.
CENTRAL POINT — An acre and a half of trees near Crater High School will one day serve as an arboretum, adding to the city's inventory of park space.
The property is the subject of a 'life deed,' in which property owner Wally Skyrman will pass the property on to the city at his death. The site has at times served as a tree nursery.
Skyrman, who declined to be interviewed, has owned the property, which was homesteaded by his family in the 1800s, for 50 years.
Parks and Recreation Manager Matt Samitore said the land is 'a beautiful site' with an extensive collection of mature trees, including some that could be recognized under the state's Heritage Tree program.
Samitore said preliminary plans for the site include an arboretum and educational center, and potentially an area for tree propagation that could provide replacement trees for the city's parks.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
DC's Casey Trees, Arlington County, VA government recognize notable trees in metro area; Washington, DC
Noble Honor Takes Root - washingtonpost.com:
The program rewards three categories: Big Trees, Witness Trees (of historic significance), and My Tree (of personal significance). Currently the Big Trees designation includes one national champion, a Jujube (Ziziphus jujube) located on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. Its trunk has a 93-inch circumference. The 61-foot tall tree also has a spread of 51 feet.
All winners of the Trees of Note designation will be included on the Casey Trees online map. 'The [geocaching] course will change biannualy to feature different or new trees, different neighborhoods and seasonal changes,' Powell said. 'We hope the geocaching element will introduce individuals to urban forestry and the importance of trees in city living and encourage individuals to see the District as not just a brick and mortar city.'
The program rewards three categories: Big Trees, Witness Trees (of historic significance), and My Tree (of personal significance). Currently the Big Trees designation includes one national champion, a Jujube (Ziziphus jujube) located on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol. Its trunk has a 93-inch circumference. The 61-foot tall tree also has a spread of 51 feet.
All winners of the Trees of Note designation will be included on the Casey Trees online map. 'The [geocaching] course will change biannualy to feature different or new trees, different neighborhoods and seasonal changes,' Powell said. 'We hope the geocaching element will introduce individuals to urban forestry and the importance of trees in city living and encourage individuals to see the District as not just a brick and mortar city.'
Friday, October 9, 2009
City’s Oldest Tree? It’s...um...probably one of these...; New York, NY
City’s Oldest Tree? It’s Anyone’s Guess - City Room Blog - NYTimes.com:
The question is asked every few years when another living landmark tumbles down: What is the oldest tree in New York City?
The answer isn’t easy.
“The oldest tree in New York?” said Edward S. Barnard, the author of “New York City Trees: A Field Guide for the Metropolitan Area” (Columbia University Press, 2002). “God only knows.”
There are 5.2 million trees in New York City, and tree canopies shade roughly one-quarter of the city, according to estimates by the United States Forest Service. Conventional wisdom, with all its caveats and contradictions, currently holds that the oldest may be the enormous tulip tree in Alley Pond Park, called the Queens Giant. (It is also believed to be the city’s tallest tree.)
The question is asked every few years when another living landmark tumbles down: What is the oldest tree in New York City?
The answer isn’t easy.
“The oldest tree in New York?” said Edward S. Barnard, the author of “New York City Trees: A Field Guide for the Metropolitan Area” (Columbia University Press, 2002). “God only knows.”
There are 5.2 million trees in New York City, and tree canopies shade roughly one-quarter of the city, according to estimates by the United States Forest Service. Conventional wisdom, with all its caveats and contradictions, currently holds that the oldest may be the enormous tulip tree in Alley Pond Park, called the Queens Giant. (It is also believed to be the city’s tallest tree.)
Sharpsburg committee wants to recognize 'historic' trees; Sharpsburg, MD
Sharpsburg committee wants to recognize 'historic' trees - The Times-Herald:
By Jeff Bishop
The Times-Herald
Do you think you may have an historically significant tree in your yard or in your neighborhood? If so, there's a new committee in Sharpsburg that wants to hear about it. Although the Sharpsburg Tree Commission actually began its life two years ago, it has only recently been reactivated, say members Polly Garlington and Roy Matthews, chairman.
'Our mission is to preserve our urban forest and to raise people's awareness of the trees we have in and around town,' said Matthews. 'We want to stimulate interest in trees.'
The historic tree recognition project is a big part of that effort, he said.
By Jeff Bishop
The Times-Herald
Do you think you may have an historically significant tree in your yard or in your neighborhood? If so, there's a new committee in Sharpsburg that wants to hear about it. Although the Sharpsburg Tree Commission actually began its life two years ago, it has only recently been reactivated, say members Polly Garlington and Roy Matthews, chairman.
'Our mission is to preserve our urban forest and to raise people's awareness of the trees we have in and around town,' said Matthews. 'We want to stimulate interest in trees.'
The historic tree recognition project is a big part of that effort, he said.
Girl Guides, Ontario Urban Forest Council and Trees Ontario kick off Heritage Tree program; Ontario, Canada
TREES ONTARIO First Trees Ontario Heritage Tree Celebrated with the Help of Ontario Girl Guides:
TORONTO, Sept. 30 /CNW/
Early this morning, five enthusiastic Girl Guides joined Adrina Ambrosii, Ontario Urban Forest Council Director (OUFC) and Trees Ontario President and CEO, Michael G. Scott under the canopy of a giant Red Oak to celebrate the first recognized Ontario Heritage Tree and the harvesting of its 2009 crop of acorns.
The venerable Red Oak is located in Toronto's unique Wychwood Park and is one of four that stand on the property owned by Douglas Goold and Libby Znaimer. A Heritage Tree is usually more than 70 years old. What sets them apart is the important cultural and historical significance they represent to their communities.
'We have nominations coming in from across the province as people wish to celebrate those trees that have been part of the fabric of their community - some of the trees are over 200 years old,' said Michael G. Scott. 'We are very pleased that Ontario Girl Guides have joined Trees Ontario and OUFC to take part in the Ontario Heritage Tree Program. We are glad that all the young people of our province can be involved in forestry stewardship.'
TORONTO, Sept. 30 /CNW/
Early this morning, five enthusiastic Girl Guides joined Adrina Ambrosii, Ontario Urban Forest Council Director (OUFC) and Trees Ontario President and CEO, Michael G. Scott under the canopy of a giant Red Oak to celebrate the first recognized Ontario Heritage Tree and the harvesting of its 2009 crop of acorns.
The venerable Red Oak is located in Toronto's unique Wychwood Park and is one of four that stand on the property owned by Douglas Goold and Libby Znaimer. A Heritage Tree is usually more than 70 years old. What sets them apart is the important cultural and historical significance they represent to their communities.
'We have nominations coming in from across the province as people wish to celebrate those trees that have been part of the fabric of their community - some of the trees are over 200 years old,' said Michael G. Scott. 'We are very pleased that Ontario Girl Guides have joined Trees Ontario and OUFC to take part in the Ontario Heritage Tree Program. We are glad that all the young people of our province can be involved in forestry stewardship.'
Monday, September 14, 2009
Previous topping results in creation of hazard and pending removal of historic trees; Tuscon, AZ
Commission votes to endorse cutting of 80-year-old tamarisks www.azstarnet.com ®:
Tucson Region
Commission votes to endorse cutting of 80-year-old tamarisks
By Megan Neighbor
For the ARizona daily star
Tucson, Arizona Published: 09.10.2009
The Tucson-Pima County Historical Commission voted unanimously — albeit reluctantly — Wednesday to endorse the removal of more than a dozen historic trees near the Manning House downtown.
The non-native tamarisk trees, which are at least 80 years old, were described as a safety hazard in Tucson Urban Landscape Manager Irene Ogata's presentation to the commission.
'When these trees were pruned, they were topped,' Ogata said. 'Once you top a tree, you weaken the structure of that tree.'
Tucson Region
Commission votes to endorse cutting of 80-year-old tamarisks
By Megan Neighbor
For the ARizona daily star
Tucson, Arizona Published: 09.10.2009
The Tucson-Pima County Historical Commission voted unanimously — albeit reluctantly — Wednesday to endorse the removal of more than a dozen historic trees near the Manning House downtown.
The non-native tamarisk trees, which are at least 80 years old, were described as a safety hazard in Tucson Urban Landscape Manager Irene Ogata's presentation to the commission.
'When these trees were pruned, they were topped,' Ogata said. 'Once you top a tree, you weaken the structure of that tree.'
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Heritage tree program provides protection to important trees; Peterborough, Ontario, Canada
Heritage above our heads - Peterborough Examiner - Ontario, CA
Magnificent old trees carry reminders of the past and hope for the future
Posted By DREW MONKMAN
There is a colossal burr oak on Homewood Avenue in Peterborough that has many a story to tell. Estimated at 200 to 300 years old, it has witnessed no less than the entire history of our city, from the time of the first settlers to the present era. Before that, it would have also observed the comings and goings of native people who used this area for hunting and fishing. Its corky, fire-resistant bark would have allowed it to survive the grass fires that these same hunters and fishers set in order to keep the land clear.
This burr oak is a wonderful example of a heritage tree. Heritage trees are not only the oldest trees in an area, but they often have stories of historical significance associated with them. The Ontario Heritage Tree Alliance (OHTA) defines heritage trees as "those that are community landmarks because of their unique physical, cultural and historical significance and that may be at risk unless their importance is recognized." There are provincial guidelines provided by the OHTA, but the responsibility for heritage tree programs ultimately lies with each municipality to implement or not, and to decide what qualifies as a heritage tree for that municipality. Peterborough does not as of yet have a heritage tree program.
Magnificent old trees carry reminders of the past and hope for the future
Posted By DREW MONKMAN
There is a colossal burr oak on Homewood Avenue in Peterborough that has many a story to tell. Estimated at 200 to 300 years old, it has witnessed no less than the entire history of our city, from the time of the first settlers to the present era. Before that, it would have also observed the comings and goings of native people who used this area for hunting and fishing. Its corky, fire-resistant bark would have allowed it to survive the grass fires that these same hunters and fishers set in order to keep the land clear.
This burr oak is a wonderful example of a heritage tree. Heritage trees are not only the oldest trees in an area, but they often have stories of historical significance associated with them. The Ontario Heritage Tree Alliance (OHTA) defines heritage trees as "those that are community landmarks because of their unique physical, cultural and historical significance and that may be at risk unless their importance is recognized." There are provincial guidelines provided by the OHTA, but the responsibility for heritage tree programs ultimately lies with each municipality to implement or not, and to decide what qualifies as a heritage tree for that municipality. Peterborough does not as of yet have a heritage tree program.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Memorial protects remnants of heritage tree, recreates historic canopy; Barcaldine, Australia; 5/5/09
Coast connection to Tree of Knowledge Sunshine Coast Daily - Queensland,Australia
“There was the practical component to protect the tree, as one of Australia’s 74 national heritage-listed sites, from sun and rain,” he said. “But there was also an architectural approach as to how to provide cover over the top of the dead tree. The whole process was about creating the original canopy from the time of the shearers’ strike in 1890s through photographic evidence.
“It’s quite an impressive cathedral space, with dappled light reflecting off the metal and you get this lovely movement with the wind through the building as well. The timber members actually sway so you get an effect symbolic of a tree.”
The poisoning of the tree remains a mystery. Suspects include disgruntled political opponents of the Labor Party, drunken pranksters or incompetent gardeners.
“There was the practical component to protect the tree, as one of Australia’s 74 national heritage-listed sites, from sun and rain,” he said. “But there was also an architectural approach as to how to provide cover over the top of the dead tree. The whole process was about creating the original canopy from the time of the shearers’ strike in 1890s through photographic evidence.
“It’s quite an impressive cathedral space, with dappled light reflecting off the metal and you get this lovely movement with the wind through the building as well. The timber members actually sway so you get an effect symbolic of a tree.”
The poisoning of the tree remains a mystery. Suspects include disgruntled political opponents of the Labor Party, drunken pranksters or incompetent gardeners.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Monument to heritage tree which gave birth to Labor movement opens with $5 million price tag; Barcaldine, Australia; 5/4/09
Tree of Knowledge divides Qld town ABC Online - Australia
Public opinion remains divided in the western Queensland town of Barcaldine over a new $5 million memorial to the historic Tree of Knowledge.
The heritage-listed ghost gum is widely known as the birth place of the Labor movement and was officially opened yesterday.
Striking shearers are said to have gathered underneath it in 1891, but the tree was poisoned in 2006 - the memorial has been built around its remains.
The 18-metre high structure includes 5,000 pieces of hanging timber to replicate the tree's original canopy.
It dwarfs everything else in the town and some locals say it is an eyesore.
Public opinion remains divided in the western Queensland town of Barcaldine over a new $5 million memorial to the historic Tree of Knowledge.
The heritage-listed ghost gum is widely known as the birth place of the Labor movement and was officially opened yesterday.
Striking shearers are said to have gathered underneath it in 1891, but the tree was poisoned in 2006 - the memorial has been built around its remains.
The 18-metre high structure includes 5,000 pieces of hanging timber to replicate the tree's original canopy.
It dwarfs everything else in the town and some locals say it is an eyesore.
"True believer" adds to Tree of Knowledge legend; Barcaldine, Australia; 5/2/09
True believer adds to Tree of Knowledge legend Australia.TO - Sydney,NSW,Australia
"In 1891 Barcaldine was the centre of the "Great Shearers Strike" where in May of that year, about 3000 striking shearers marched under the Tree of Knowledge to protest against poor working conditions and low wages," she said."These events led to the Tree of Knowledge earning its claim to fame as the founding site of the political movement we now know as the Australian Labor Party."Ms Bligh said the almost $2.5 million contribution by the Queensland Government Q150 Legacy Infrastructure Program has built a permanent memorial which will protect the original tree."Sadly the Tree of Knowledge was poisoned in 2006, but this structure will help protect and preserve the remains of the tree to permanently recognise the trees historical importance," she said.
"In 1891 Barcaldine was the centre of the "Great Shearers Strike" where in May of that year, about 3000 striking shearers marched under the Tree of Knowledge to protest against poor working conditions and low wages," she said."These events led to the Tree of Knowledge earning its claim to fame as the founding site of the political movement we now know as the Australian Labor Party."Ms Bligh said the almost $2.5 million contribution by the Queensland Government Q150 Legacy Infrastructure Program has built a permanent memorial which will protect the original tree."Sadly the Tree of Knowledge was poisoned in 2006, but this structure will help protect and preserve the remains of the tree to permanently recognise the trees historical importance," she said.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
City eyes protection of Heritage Trees and UTC; Mississauga, ON, Canada; 2/20/09
City eyes plan to save heritage trees Mississauga - Mississauga,ON,Canada
A City of Mississauga initiative to protect and preserve trees includes the creation of an extensive database of old, rare and unique trees.The program also calls on residents to help out. A Mississauga Heritage Tree subcommittee report, presented at Wednesday's meeting of General Committee, calls for a two-pronged approach — creating awareness among residents and making appropriate changes to the City's bylaw – to preserve Mississauga's urban canopy.
A City of Mississauga initiative to protect and preserve trees includes the creation of an extensive database of old, rare and unique trees.The program also calls on residents to help out. A Mississauga Heritage Tree subcommittee report, presented at Wednesday's meeting of General Committee, calls for a two-pronged approach — creating awareness among residents and making appropriate changes to the City's bylaw – to preserve Mississauga's urban canopy.
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