让古树与人和谐共生（大家谈）

Core Viewpoint - The protection of ancient trees faces various challenges, including insufficient funding, lack of clear regulations, and the need for better public engagement in conservation efforts [1][2][3]. Group 1: Ancient Tree Age Assessment - Common methods for determining tree age include ring counting, growth core method, regression estimation, and carbon-14 dating, with the latter two methods having significant error margins [1]. - New research is being conducted to utilize spectral imaging technology for non-destructive and accurate age assessment of ancient trees, akin to CT scans in hospitals [1]. - A third national survey of ancient trees will be conducted this year, aiming to include previously unprotected or unassessed trees, utilizing drones and AI for rapid identification and age estimation [1]. Group 2: Challenges in Ancient Tree Protection - There is a lack of dedicated funding for the maintenance of ancient trees, and human resources for monitoring are limited [2]. - Existing regulations, such as the "Ancient Tree Protection Regulations," require further refinement and local implementation to enhance accountability and protection measures [2]. - The absence of public participation in the development of protection plans leads to a lack of community support, especially when residents are required to adjust their living conditions around ancient trees [2]. Group 3: Balancing Urban Development and Tree Protection - Urban planning should prioritize avoiding ancient tree protection zones while ensuring that trees do not become isolated from their surroundings [3]. - Safety assessments should be conducted when ancient trees coexist with residential areas, allowing for necessary pruning to protect both the trees and buildings [3]. - Compensation mechanisms can be established to balance the needs of residents and the protection of ancient trees, such as government-funded maintenance for trees on private land [3].