Melbourne: Exceptional Tree Register
Policy Title: The Exceptional Tree Register
Year Adopted: 2012
City: Melbourne, Australia
Main Citation: https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/exceptional-tree-register
Description:
In the early 2010s, after several years of drought, the City of Melbourne realized that their urban canopy was vulnerable to disease and age-related tree loss. A Useful Life Expectancy (ULE) assessment in 2012 concluded that over twenty percent of the tree population would be lost within ten years, and almost forty percent would be lost within twenty years. These percentages only increased when heritage landscapes and reserves were considered. The City quickly implemented many programs in order to protect its public trees, but realized that it needed to engage the public in protecting trees on privately owned land. One private sector-focused initiative that quickly took root was creating a register of privately owned trees that its enjoyers deem “exceptional.” By registering a tree, a citizen gains a special tree protection zoning on their property and has a say in local development that could impact their property (and its exceptional tree.)
To be included on the list, a tree must be notable in its “aboriginal association; aesthetic value; curious growth form; environmental/micro-climate services; historical value; horticultural value; location or context; outstanding example of species; habitat value; size; [age]; [rarity]; or social, cultural or spiritual significance.” Since the list’s creation in 2012, there have been two rounds of nominations and there will be a third in the next year; collectively, there are now 268 trees included on the register. Additionally, Melbourne works in association with the state of Victoria and the National Trusts of Australia to add certain exceptional trees to the nationwide Register of Significant Trees. A registry campaign offering special privileges to exceptional tree owners could be an effective way for localities to protect private trees while respecting private property rights.
Impact:
Trees on the register are well-protected and beloved by their owners and neighbors. In an interview with “The Age” Newspaper, Melbourne Urban Landscapes Manager Ian Shears said that the register is “not trying to protect the trees against landowners' wishes” (as is commonly argued about procedural tree protections) but is instead “a 'celebration' of the importance of trees and greenery in urban place.” Forestry plan data shows impressive progress in the protection of Melbourne’s tree canopy, but more research is necessary to determine if efforts have led to fewer instances of mature tree loss due to development.
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