LUCKNOW: In yet another attempt to conserve ecology, the state government has decided to develop spots with heritage trees as ecotourism sites.
There are more than a thousand trees that have been shortlisted by a committee set up by the UP State Biodiversity Board. Close to 35 different species have been identified as heritage trees which are being verified by the Institute of Wildlife Sciences, Lucknow University. Institute of Wildlife Sciences will verify the details and pick up the ones which fit the criteria of being heritage tree.
“Reaching the exact location of every tree, clicking pictures and collecting details from local people is a tedious process,” said Amita Kannaujia, coordinator.
Species which have been identified are Kusum, Bahera, Harr, Sal, Oak, Banyan, Mango, Peepal, Imli and Parijaat.The deadline of November 30 has been fixed for finalising the list of heritage trees. Sources in the committee said while a 100 prominent ones might feature in a coffee table book, others will also be popularised.
At least three trees may be chosen from bigger districts like Lucknow for coffee table book while smaller districts will contribute one tree each.
“Besides conserving them, the idea is to develop these trees as ecotourism spots. The route map of other heritage trees which fail to make it to the book, but are important as per the criteria, will be printed. It will help interested people reach locations of these trees,” he said.