The NATSPEC specification for trees – an overview

The National Building Specification (NATSPEC) specification for trees was first published in 1996, then revised and re-published in 2003. It was conceived as a reaction against the generally poor standard of trees then available and the belief that high quality tree stock is an essential component of successful landscapes. It was quickly endorsed by arborists, landscape architects, and some growers. Over the past decade support for the specification has grown dramatically and it is now the most widely accepted and applied tree specification in Australia. The NATSPEC specification for trees has much to offer the landscape industry. However, it still attracts criticism, from some quarters, and suffers from misinterpretation, particularly with regard to some of the advisory tables. This paper provides a brief overview, explores some of the main areas that have been misinterpreted and misunderstood and outlines how the specification can benefit the various segments of the landscape industry. The paper concludes with a brief note on how its adaptation, to become an Australian Standard, is progressing.