The vital importance of ancient and veteran trees

These venerable giants, often centuries old, are living monuments that tell the story of our natural and cultural heritage. Their importance extends far beyond aesthetic appeal, encompassing critical ecological functions and contributions to biodiversity, landscape character, and cultural history.

Ecological Significance

One of the most compelling reasons to cherish veteran and ancient trees is their ecological importance. These trees serve as keystone structures in their ecosystems, providing habitat and sustenance for a myriad of species. The decaying wood, cavities, and crevices offer ideal nesting and roosting sites for birds, bats, and insects and indeed many of these are inextricably linked.

For instance, dead or broken branches or exposed sapwood provide entry points for insects; tunnelling by beetles, for example, breaks through internal chemical barriers within the tree allowing the progression of fungal organisms which begin to decay the timber. This creates cavities within the heartwood of the tree; the decaying material provides a food source for other invertebrates and microorganisms which in turn reduce the decayed material back to soils. This soil can then be used by the tree to support the growth of internal aerial roots which support the tree itself and so the cycle continues. Many of these complex relationships involve critically endangered flora and fauna.

Moreover, the microhabitats within these trees support a diverse range of invertebrates, fungi, and lichens. Species such as the stag beetle, which is dependent on decaying wood, find refuge in the ancient woodlands. The presence of veteran trees can significantly enhance the biodiversity of an area, making them hotspots for conservation efforts.

The ecological role of these trees extends to their contribution to soil health. The leaf litter and organic matter from ancient trees enrich the soil, promoting a healthy and diverse understory. This, in turn, supports a wide range of plant species, contributing to the overall resilience and stability of the ecosystem.

Landscape and Cultural Value

Veteran and ancient trees are also integral to the landscape character of the UK. They often serve as landmarks, shaping the identity of the countryside and urban green spaces. The gnarled and twisted forms of ancient oaks, yews, and beeches add a sense of history and continuity to the landscape, connecting us to the past.

It is a testament to the relative stability of the UK that we have a very high number of veteran and ancient trees when compared to other European countries where wars, revolutions and inheritance laws have seen the breakup of traditional landed estates and with it a significant reduction in continuity of landscape management. Consequently these iconic trees within our landscape take on not just national but international importance.

Challenges and Conservation

Despite their immense value, veteran and ancient trees face numerous threats. Urbanisation, agricultural intensification, and climate change are some of the major challenges that jeopardise their survival.

Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these irreplaceable natural assets. Initiatives such as the Ancient Tree Inventory, managed by the Woodland Trust, play a vital role in identifying and recording ancient trees across the UK. This database helps in monitoring the health and status of these trees, facilitating targeted conservation actions.

Protecting veteran trees requires a multifaceted approach. Legal protection, habitat restoration, and public awareness are key components of effective conservation strategies. Policies that promote the preservation of ancient woodlands and the planting of new trees can help ensure the continuity of these vital ecosystems.

Public engagement and education are also essential. By raising awareness, we can foster a sense of stewardship and encourage community involvement in conservation efforts. Schools, local councils, and environmental organisations can play a pivotal role in promoting the value of ancient trees and advocating for their protection.

How can we help?

As we face the challenges of the 21st century, it is imperative that we recognise the importance of veteran and ancient trees and take concerted action to protect and preserve them for future generations.

In so doing we not only safeguard biodiversity and ecosystem health but also enrich our cultural heritage and enhance the beauty of our landscapes. These living monuments deserve our respect and protection, serving as enduring symbols of nature’s resilience and the deep connections between humans and the natural world.

Recognising trees that are either veteran or ancient in the first place is the biggest challenge land owners face. How do we decide that a tree is more than just an old tree? 

The increasing public and political recognition that veteran and ancient trees are of great importance has resulted in the creation of a pan-European certification scheme for both practising arborists and consultants. This scheme, known as VETcert, provides training and exam certification to recognise the individual’s specialist knowledge and ultimately provide expert advice to tree owners on how best to protect and, where necessary, manage tree work to ensure these important monuments are not damaged.

It is also, however, important to note that trees not categorised as veteran and ancient also play a significant part within the landscape. Many trees that are currently approaching full maturity may have some of the initial features that are associated with veteranisation. Unless we recognise and conserve them, the ability to replace existing veteran and ancient trees over generations may be compromised.

Further information

Contact Tim Williams