The public have been asked to nominate exceptional trees throughout the city of Melbourne to be placed on a register.
First introduced in 2012 by Melbourne City Council, the Exceptional Tree Register was established to help safeguard and celebrate exceptional trees growing on privately managed or owned sites within the municipality.
There are currently 169 trees on the Register, with this number set to expand with the second round of nominations, according to Environment Portfolio Chair Cathy Oke who said:
“Our urban forest includes trees located on privately owned or managed land, all of which contribute greatly to Melbourne's landscape, liveability and heritage. The register is our way of ensuring these trees, which are outside the City of Melbourne's authority, are protected and given the longest life possible.”
The criteria for inclusion on the register include an assessment of its horticultural or historical value. They may be rare, large, very old, have unusual growth Forms or be particularly striking or a key habitat for animals or birds.
Many trees already on the Register have long been a focus of attention for locals and visitors with some featured in promotional brochure printing such as Melbourne Zoo’s Moreton Bay Fig tree, which is 150 years old.
Anyone can nominate an exceptional tree as being the landowner is not a requirement. Nominations close on March 15. Councillor Oke said that once placed on the Register, the trees will need a planning permit for any proposed removal.
Get a Free Quote for Forms