Natural Resources Inventory cataloging old and unusual trees

By Elizabeth Potter

Two years ago, the Inlands/Wetlands Conservation Commission (Wetlands Commission) appointed a subcommittee known as the Natural Resources Inventory, whose purpose is to catalog all of Norfolk’s habitat. The Notable/Venerable Tree Project is a part of that inventory. Led by Elizabeth (Pebble) Potter and Stan Civco, the group has been scouring the woodlands of Norfolk in search of old and/or venerable trees. Notable trees are unique by reason of size, and venerable trees are those that are old and still living. They may look as though they have been through a lot in their times.
Considering that Norfolk has been noted for its greenwoods and forests, it seems likely that there are more trees in town that could be identified as notable/venerable, and members of the Project are interested in finding more of them. Residents who believe they may know where there is a notable or venerable tree should contact either Potter at 542-5448 or Civco at 542-5423.  To qualify, a tree should be either of extraordinary size (diameter, height, spread) or obviously very old or of historic interest.  Notable trees are often found near where old boundaries intersect.  Sometimes trees were left in a field for shade for animals, or were planted near houses where both shade and beauty were desired.
Trees grow well in Norfolk and some trees that are not native trees thrive here.  The group is interested in finding all kinds of trees – native and non-native.  If a tree meets the criteria for notable/venerable status it will then be listed in the Natural Resources Inventory report, which is expected to be made available next year. To nominate a tree, the tree must be located in Norfolk, and nominations may be made by calling Civco or Potter. Also, photos and descriptions of the nominee trees may also be sent to Venerable Trees, P.O. Box 27, Norfolk 06058.