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| The sprawling canopy of the tropical almond tree covers a significant area of the schoolyard |
According to Mr. Nguyen Van Tuan, a teacher, it is yet unknown when the tree was planted. However, the local elders who are over 95 years old recalls seeing this large tree way back in their childhood. Annually, alongside planting new trees, the school fertilizes and prunes the branches of the almond tree to both care for the tree and ensure the landscape of the school grounds.
As of now, based on the Vietnam Heritage Tree Registration dossier submitted by the school and the approval results of the Appraisal Council, the Vietnam Association for Conservation of Nature and Environment has issued a decision to recognize the tropical almond tree (scientific name Terminalia Catappa L.) at Phu Loc Town Secondary School as a Vietnamese Heritage Tree. Upon recognition as a Vietnamese Heritage Tree, it will enjoy preferential conditions as stipulated by the Vietnam Association for Conservation of Nature and Environment.
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| The massive trunk of the almond tree |
The Vietnamese Heritage Tree Registration file shows that the main trunk of the tree has a diameter of about 1.4 meters and a circumference of 4.49 meters. Many elders over 95 years old who live near the school recall the tree already being on the school grounds for a long time. They also recall it being fairly enormous while they were still small.
Mr. Tuan stated that upon receiving the news, the school has notified all teachers and students, particularly reminding students to pay even more attention to protecting the Heritage Tree, refraining from any mischievous actions such as climbing or damaging the tree. The school administration is also seeking input from the local authorities to plan the recognition ceremony.