Yangzhou steps up efforts to protect 677 precious trees

2021-06-02 14:22:00

The Bureau of Natural Resources and Planning of Yangzhou City announced new efforts to protect its ancient and famous trees during a press conference on June 1.

The new regulation with 27 articles stipulates the definition of ancient or famous trees, grading standards, management, and conservation responsibilities. It will come into effect on July 1 this year.

Ancient trees are trees that are more than 100 years old, and famous trees refer to those with important historical, cultural, ornamental or scientific values. Trees that are 50-100 years are also regarded as important resources.

The city has 642 old trees and 35 famous trees, with most of the celebrity group located near the Slender West Lake. The city’s two oldest trees, one pagoda tree and one ginkgo tree, are said to have lived more than 1,000 years.

Yangzhou introduced the new regulation to strengthen the protection and management of the precious trees, regarding it as a core part of the city's history and cultural identity.

In line with the new move, the bureau will further clarify the responsibilities of organizations and individuals in protecting the precious trees and also improve the maintenance and conservation techniques.