The city of Aurora’s Tree Board is accepting nominations for 2017 inductees to the Heritage Tree Registry.

The Heritage Tree Registry is a voluntary program that honors and recognizes those trees that add to the value, aesthetics and character of Aurora neighborhoods.

Trees can be nominated by Aurora’s Tree Board, the Preservation Commission, City department heads, individuals and community groups through Friday, Sept. 15, 2017.

To be considered for recognition as a Heritage Tree, a tree must be at least 50 years old and meet minimum size requirements. In addition, the tree must have some other significance, for example: trees listed on state or national registries, trees associated with an historic event or person, trees planted for Arbor Day or in memory of an individual or event, trees that provide a unique habitat for wildlife, trees of a unique or rare species, or simply trees or groves of trees with incomparable aesthetic qualities.

Trees selected for honors will receive a letter and certificate and will be entered into the registry and added to the City’s Geographic Information System to help protect them from changes in infrastructure, construction and property ownership. However, the program is voluntary and non-binding, and there are no additional requirements for the preservation of trees on the registry. Nominations should be emailed to Bill Chinetti of the Aurora Tree Board at bchinetti@arborlegacy.com by Friday, September 15 for consideration. Include the location of the tree, photos, and any additional information relating to the tree’s significance, for example, historical documentation or a written history of the tree.

Nominations will be evaluated by the Tree Board in the fall. Trees recommended for the Heritage Tree Registry will be recognized during the 2018 Arbor Day activities.

— Aurora seeks trees of significance for registry–