• Journal of agriculture & life science
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• v.45 no.2
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• pp.69-83
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• 2011

The aim of the research was to provide basic information for a suitable management and utilization of protected trees by law. To achieve this aim, this study investigated the current state, management status and utilization of protected trees by law in Gyeongsan city. The result of the current state of protected trees indicated that there were 55 protected trees designated since 1982. These trees consisted of 8 species which were located at 41 places. Major species was Sophora japonica (30.9%), followed by Zelkova serrata (23.6%). The protected trees have been used as sacred trees (45.5%) in the villages, followed by scenic trees (36.7%). 38.2% of the protected trees were 200 to 300 years old and 54.6% of the trees were 15 to 30 m in height. 34% of the protected trees were located in the villages, followed by beside road (19.5%). Single trees (78%) were mostly planted. The result of the management status indicated that 58.5% of the root area in protected trees were covered with bare ground, followed by gravel mulch (19.5%). The average of soil hardness was 9.64 mm. The safety fence of tree was installed at 9 places (22%) and a stone wall was built at 22 places (53.7%). 70.9% of the protected trees had a surgical operation to prevent cavities and to cure decay. Granite stone signs were installed at 33 places. The result of the utilization of protected trees indicated that 13 places were used as a rest area in the villages. It consisted of shelters, benches, athletic facilities and outdoor tables. The research suggested potential places for a mini park(pocket park) to recover a local community by using surrounding available land and improving current rest areas of protected trees. The research presented here is a first step towards a more comprehensive analysis of protected trees in Gyeongsan and further research is needed.