ONTG is dedicated to the preservation and propagation of
Orkney’s native tree species. There aren’t that many - species or specimens - so those we
have are very precious.
These are some other reasons for preserving our trees:
i) Our indigenous native trees represent an unbroken
link back to the last Ice Age, approximately 9000 years ago and could, therefore, be seen
as an important part of our heritage, not unlike our ancient monuments.
ii) Native trees on island groups are particularly
important since, because of their long-term geographical isolation, they may contain
unique genetic material found in no other localities.
iii) Orkney’s native trees have adapted over thousands
of years to the local climate and environmental conditions; the genetic variation found
within e.g. Berriedale, reflects the survival of the woodland through thousands of years of
changing conditions. They are, therefore, well adapted to the local conditions in terms of
e.g. temperature, day-length, salt winds, length of growing season etc.
iv) Native tree populations contain a large amount of
genetic variation and this gives them the best chance of survival. During the course of
their lives, trees may be attacked by insects, fungi or disease, may suffer from pollution
and now face the prospect of global warming. It is those populations with low genetic
variation that are less likely to cope with, and adapt to, changing conditions. Variation
in native trees can include differences in form, height, rate of growth, leaf colour, time
of bud break etc - all of these may in some way contribute to a local population
surviving, particularly in harsh conditions.
Native trees are not only important in their own right;
they are also important for their associated flora and fauna. In the same way as the trees
have adapted to their environment, so other species have adapted to a life associated with
the trees. The conservation of Orkney’s native trees will also contribute to the
conservation of other species of flora and fauna which may, at present, occur in very few
sites.
vi) Orkney’s native trees are visually attractive.
Unlike most non-native species, they seem to ‘fit’ in even the more scenic parts of the County.
Through the website, The Orkney Native Tree Group we hope to
raise the profile of the work we are undertaking.
