Bac Giang: Ancient tree receives national heritage status
Bac Giang (VNA) – A millennium-year-old tree in the northern province of Bac Giang has been recognised as a Vietnamese Heritage Tree by the Vietnam Association for Conservation of Nature and Environment (VACNE).
A ceremony to announce the status was held in Xuan Luong commune, Yen The district on February 14.
The 45m high tree is scientifically known as Erythrophleum fordii, but called “Lim” in the community.
In 2011, the VACNE launched a programme to conserve
Vietnam’s Heritage Trees, aiming to select and honour the country’s heritage
trees in a bid to conserve their gene sources, while raising public awareness
of environmental protection.
It also contributes to promoting the
diversification and abundance of Vietnam’s flora as well as developing
scientific research in the field.
To win the honour, the trees must be at least
200 years old in the case of wild trees, and at least 100 years for those
planted. Moreover, the trees should be connected with the historical and
cultural characteristics of the area where they grow.
Those which do not meet the criteria, yet have
special values to science, history or culture, will also earn the recognition.-VNA