It is Government policy to provide priority protection to Old and Valuable Trees. The Government has identified some 500 Old and Valuable Trees on unleased Government land within built-up areas or tourist attraction spots in village areas. Built-up areas include both metro and new town areas but excluding country parks. Registration is based on one or more of the following criteria:

a) Tree of large size Tree of particularly large size (i.e. either trunk diameter or height or canopy spread), taking into consideration the normal size of such species. In terms of size, the following standards generally be used: Trunk diameter Trees with trunk diameter of or over 1 000 mm (measured at 1.3m above ground level). Height Trees of or over 25m in height. Canopy spread Trees with spread of or over 25m in diameter. b) Tree of precious or rare species The population of a species is in scarcity based on professional judgement and the number of tree species recorded in the inventories kept by Leisure and Cultural Services Department and Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department.

c) Tree of particularly old age (e.g. over 100 years old) The planting date of the tree had been traced as far as practicable to check whether its age was over 100 or not. If the planting date was not known, consideration can be given to comparing the nominated tree with other trees of the same species over 100 years old.

d) Tree of cultural, historical or memorable significance A tree which was known to have cultural, historical or memorable significance. Cultural Significance Well-known Fung Shui or landmark trees or trees within known woodlands. Historical Significance Landmark trees preferably with evidential records to support the historical significance of the trees. Memorable Significance Trees associated with special memories such as those planted by a senior government official, or local/foreign dignitaries and celebrities for commemorating special events. e) Trees of outstanding form Trees bear an outstanding form in terms of their aesthetic and landscape significance.

In addition, the conditions of the trees on the following aspects will be assessed before registration- a) Health and physical conditions Health and physical conditions, such as the presence of any extensive cavities, cracks or diseases etc. or poor branch structure, which may endanger its structural stability or resulting in public safety hazards. b) Life expectancy Tree that would soon reach its end of life expectancy will not be included in the register. c) Location The importance of the tree in the landscape will be assessed with regard to its prominence in relation to the surroundings and the presence of environmental constraints. Factors such as very close to a building or blocking sightline of drivers would also be considered. d) Representative of its kind The special features of the tree will be assessed and compared with similar trees in the Register to see whether such features are representative of its kind and whether the tree has any special scientific and ecological value. Information of Old and Valuable Trees in Hong Kong

Enquiry

Enquiry: 2601 8291 or 2601 7938 Fax: 2691 7264 E-mail address: lmarb2@lcsd.gov.hk