A Chinese Banyan at Shui Mei Village Playground, Yuen Long has been voted Favourite Old & Valuable Tree by thousands of people in a Development Bureau online contest.
Twelve trees were judged in four categories: "Remarkable Form & Size", "Botanical & Ecological Value", “Historical & Cultural Significance" and "Contribution in Landscape Setting".
Speaking at the prize presentation ceremony today, Secretary for Development Paul Chan said the contest aimed to enhance the public’s care for and appreciation of old trees, and to encourage people to conserve them.
The response to the online poll was overwhelming, with about 4,800 votes received. Half of the votes came from students, which shows youngsters care for old trees, he said.
There are about 500 old trees in Hong Kong, which are valuable natural resources and cultural testaments Mr Chan noted, adding that the Government will continue to improve tree management standards to preserve these valuable natural resources.
The online vote was held from May 30 to September 12 this year. Click here for details.
