Help plant 700,000 trees in Leicestershire

The Help Plant 700,000 Trees in Leicestershire session took place on 12 September 2024. A further face to face tree planting session is also taking place on the 5th December 2024. More details can be found below, including a short form to book your place!

Key speakers included Herbert Daybell from the Communities Network Foundation. The Foundation have created and established a community orchard and adopted the Bottesford Tree Charter. The Foundation encourages community groups to get involved and make a difference.

Lucy Hoelmer from Leicestershire County Council introduced the Midlands Forest Network, a Heritage Lottery-funded initiative to create a network of organisations and communities. The Network aims to join up woodland habitats across the Midlands, exchange good practice and secure proposals for investors.

Sam Village from the Tree Council introduced the National Tree Warden Scheme, which aims to engage the public and local communities. The session covered the importance of tree planting, the National Tree Warden scheme, and various tree planting initiatives. The Tree Council coordinates the scheme across the UK, providing support, training, and networking opportunities for tree wardens.

Adam Goodall from Leicestershire County Council discussed the Council's tree strategy and efforts to enhance tree cover in the county. Initiatives include a tree charter, free tree and hedge schemes, and partnerships with the Woodland Trust and other organisations.

Participants joined in the discussions asked questions about specific tree planting projects, funding opportunities, and the process for getting support from the Council.

As a follow up, we are having an interactive tree-planting session at County Hall, Glenfield on 5th December 2024 at 10am-12noon. This is your chance to hear about some of the tree initiatives, followed by and outdoor session to learn about the conditions and site preparation required for tree planting and how to care for trees.

Presentations and recordings from the session are available below.