A ginkgo tree in Jiuhua Town, Rugao City, Jiangsu Province (CFP Photo)

Jiangsu Province’s new regulation on the protection of ancient and famous trees will come into effect on October 20 and be valid for five years.

The regulation aims to protect biodiversity and cultural and historical heritage in urban areas.

Trees that are at or above 300 years old are rated first-class in the initiative, and those between 100 and 300 years are rated second-class.

A view of parasol tree-flanked road in Zhongshan Mountain scenic area in Nanjing (CFP Photo)

According to the regulation, administrative department in charge of urban landscaping shall strengthen the supervision, management and technical guidance on the protection of old and valuable trees. Efforts will be made to conduct surveys and keep records of the trees and also place signs that should include information such as the tree’s species, age and the organization or individual responsible for the protection of the tree. Meanwhile, local authorities should establish e-database of the trees for effective monitoring and management.

Organizations and individuals are also encouraged to adopt the precious trees.