N.J. Admin. Code § 7:7-9.35

Current through Register Vol. 56, No. 21, November 4, 2024

Section 7:7-9.35 - Specimen trees

(a) Specimen trees are the largest known individual trees of each species in New Jersey. The Department's Division of Parks and Forestry maintains a list of these trees (see "New Jersey's Biggest Trees," published by the Department's Division of Parks and Forestry, Summer 1991 for a listing of specimen trees). In addition, large trees approaching the diameter of the known largest tree shall be considered specimen trees. Individual trees with a circumference equal to or greater than 85 percent of the circumference of the record tree, as measured 4.5 feet above the ground surface, for a particular species shall be considered a specimen tree.

(b) Development is prohibited that would significantly reduce the amount of light reaching the crown, alter drainage patterns within the site, adversely affect the quality of water reaching the site, cause erosion or deposition of material in or directly adjacent to the site, or otherwise injure the tree. The site of the tree extends to the outer limit of the buffer area necessary to avoid adverse impacts, or 50 feet from the tree, whichever is greater.

(c) Rationale: Many interested citizens have assisted DEP, over decades, in locating specimen trees. This process includes reporting large trees that can be considered specimens even though they may not be the largest in New Jersey of a species. Specimen trees are an irreplaceable scientific and scenic resource. Often these trees have also been associated with historical events.

N.J. Admin. Code § 7:7-9.35

Renumbered from 7:7E-3.37 by 47 N.J.R. 1392(a), effective 7/6/2015