Przyrodnicze i społeczne kryteria uznawania drzew za pomniki przyrody

The aim of the study was to analysis the criteria applied to the trees that are the candidates to become the monuments of nature and their importance attribute of the natural and social for recognition to embracing individual law protection in Poland. The study attempts to classify trees that are monuments of nature in terms of natural and social aspects, as part of the methodology for recognition the trees as the natural monuments. Attention was paid to the role of trees in the environment, with particular emphasis to the old specimens and trees with significant role because of their natural and cultural values. Trees – monuments of nature are a valuable cultural and natural heritage, but what distinguish them from the monuments of material culture is the fact that it is not possible to restore them. Hence, prudent determination of specimens, which will constitute in the future a natural monument, is particularly important because of their social importance and also to obtain funds for their care, maintenance and arrangement of the environment.