Alberta Preserves Ancient Trees for Future Generations

An ancient limber pine in the Crowsnest Pass area is the first tree to be designated for protection under the Trees of Renown program - an initiative designed to preserve noteworthy trees in the province's forests. The tree is estimated to be at least 1,100 years old, making it one of the oldest in Alberta.

• See a photo of the tree

The Trees of Renown program is a partnership between the Alberta Government and the Devonian Botanic Garden. Trees of great size, age, historical significance or other unique characteristics, growing on public lands, are eligible for listing and protection. The program marks Alberta's centennial year and the 75th anniversary of resource management in Alberta. It is based on a similar initiative launched in the 1980s by the Alberta Forestry Association, which recognized 115 trees in all areas of the province before the program wound down in 1986.

Albertans are invited to nominate trees of historic, environmental or general significance for protection. Nomination forms are available at local Sustainable Resource Development offices, or from the ministry's website. Albertans who nominate trees that earn the Trees of Renown designation will be recognized for their contribution to the program.

A committee made up of government, academic and industry representatives will choose the Trees of Renown in 2006. Trees of Renown will also work in conjunction with the Heritage Tree Foundation of Canada, which administers a similar program on private lands.

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