City of Gosnells residents can now request that mature or historically important trees be protected by a new register of Significant Public Trees.
The register will ensure significant trees are maintained and preserved, based on their location, cultural or historical importance or botanical, scientific or aesthetic value.
Mayor Terresa Lynes said the City had long been very active in the maintenance and care of its local trees, recognising that trees were a vital part of the unique cultural and aesthetic fabric of the area.
“We are very proud that the City of Gosnells is a beautiful, leafy place and this register will give community members the opportunity to recommend the protection of trees they deem to be important or special,” she said.
Of the many individual trees that have already been protected in the City, one is the huge jarrah in John Okey Davis Park, dating from pre-European settlement.
Believed to be more than 500 years old, it is regularly monitored by City of Gosnells staff to ensure it remains healthy.
Another protected tree is Spencer Oak in Langford which was planted in 1870 by early European settlers and ancestors of Mayor Terresa Lynes, John Spencer and his daughter Sarah.
Last year the City of Gosnells adopted Greening Gosnells: Our Public Tree Strategy 2022 – 2030, with a long-term goal of increasing tree canopy cover in public areas within the City.
Mayor Lynes said tree canopy was measured from the air, considering the spread of branches and leaves, and was an important factor contributing to natural temperature control.
“The City recognises the many benefits of maintaining and increasing our tree canopy and has long been committed to increasing our tree numbers on City-owned and managed land,” she said.
“Our community is fortunate to have many areas protected from urbanisation, and the river parks have created green arteries through many suburbs, ensuring that in most parts of the City trees are visible on the horizon.
Trees on the register will be inspected biennially and maintained, including fertilising, watering, pruning and surgery, as appropriate for the species.
The register will include details about each tree, including species, physical characteristics and its significance to the community.
To request that a tree to be included on the register, visit yoursay.gosnells.wa.gov.au.
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