Mediterranean Agricultural Institute of Chania – (MAIX), is organising an event entitled “Ambelitsa – the threatened tree endemic to Crete”, on Monday 15th May 2017 at 19:30 in the Junior School of Kavousi, to discuss how to save and maintain the tree which is under the threat of extinction and is endemic only to Crete.
In an announcement released to inform all those interested in attending, the organisers from MAIX and in cooperation with the Cultural Society of Kavousi explain that the event is part of an initiative “The maintenance of the Ambelitsa in Crete 2017-2020”, which is part of a programme funded by the University of Freeburg Switzerland, which specialises in the study of rare and ancient species of tree, such as the ambelitsa and is carrying out an educational programme in coordination with the Cretan Forestry Commission, local authorities, bodies and schools.
The ambelitsa (Zelkova abelicea), which is well known for it’s use in making the traditional Cretan walking sticks, “katsounes”, is seen nowhere else on the planet, only on Crete!
It is seen all around the island, in smaller or larger populations and is one of the oldest “occupants” of the Island, with fossilised samples having been uncovered in the east of Crete in the area Makrylias, which go back eight million years. It is an rare and unique inheritance of nature, that we are obliged to maintain for generations to follow.
Because of how rare the tree is, it has been included in a database of 2,500 endangered species, protected by European law and included in International Treaties such as the Berne Treaty, based on the International Organisation for the Maintainance of Nature (IUCN 2012).
All are welcome at the meeting, which aims to improve awareness amongst locals in areas where the tree is found, to explain the importance attached to protecting and ensuring the future of the tree. After the presentation, there will be an open discussion.
More information is available from Mrs. Elektra Remoundou at MAIX on 2821835000 ext. 578
And the Kavousi Cultural Society, Mrs. Maria Halkiadaki on 6946725529
