Ancient Tree Survey - Update

Survey forms from the first stage of the Ancient Tree Survey have started to be returned but there is still plenty of time for you to contribute if you know of a good specimen.

The aim of the project is to create an inventory of the largest and oldest trees on the Island and identify the associated wildlife found on them. We also want to identify and care for those trees which will be the "ancient trees" of the future. This survey will locate where they grow, provide basic information such as what species they are, their girth and any information known about their history or connection to a particular event.

Ancient trees are often a very important part of local history and culture and are often found at significant historical sites. The Garibaldi oak, planted to commemorate Garibaldi's visit in 1864, marks a unique event in the Island's history. Some trees have a more legendary significance such as the cedar tree in Swainston manor (now fallen) where Tennyson sat under and reputably composed his poem "Maud".

These veteran trees are a distinctive feature of the landscape and are an essential habitat for many different species of wildlife. Some are large and more obvious such as owls, bats and woodpeckers and some are easier to overlook such as mosses, lichens and invertebrates. Some of these species are associated solely with ancient trees.

Ancient trees can be found in ancient woodlands such as Parkhurst Forest, parks such as Nunwell and Osborne House, agricultural fields, gardens, village greens and old trackways such as the one leading to Long Stone, in fact, almost anywhere!

It is difficult to say exactly when a tree becomes "ancient". The survey is looking hr trees of about two-hundred years and older. However, it should be remembered that the age a tree reaches varies from species to species. Birch rarely reaches two-hundred years, whereas oak is just maturing at this age and yew is just starting! A tree's growth can be hindered on poor soil or on exposed sites. Trees that have been pollarded will not have the stature of a maiden tree but will have the girth. It is sometimes just the "feel" of a tree that lets you know it is ancient.

If you know of any ancient trees in your area which you would like recorded, survey forms are available in libraries and at Tourist Information Centres. If you would like any further information or know of any schools or other groups that might be interested in the survey, please contact ANOB on +44 (0)1983 822118.

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