Warwickshire Tree Scheme branches out
The roots of the Warwickshire Tree Scheme go back more than 30 years to 1972, and from next week it will get its first major revamp.
Initially the scheme was to promote and enable the planting of trees into the Warwickshire countryside.
More than 1.5 million trees have been planted since the start of the Warwickshire County Council scheme, but a similar number of mature and important trees have been lost through natural factors, disease and re-development.
Currently, the present Warwickshire Tree Scheme enables 60-70 schemes a year by providing a free site survey and advice for planting native broadleaves that are consistent with the Warwickshire County Council’s landscape guidelines. The scheme also supplies trees and hedging plants at a competitive price to landowners.
Ken Simons, the County Forestry Officer, said: “The Warwickshire Tree Scheme has helped many landowners increase the county’s tree cover over the years. We would however, like to further promote the scheme’s original objectives and promote better tree and hedgerow management. Though successful, it is felt that there are a lot of new landowners that could benefit from the scheme regarding any tree planting that they may wish to undertake.
“We are therefore re-launching the Warwickshire Tree Scheme on Saturday, September 1. This will differ from the present Scheme as we are proposing an initial charge in the way of a membership fee. Members will be entitled to receive an initial consultation and preparation of a Planting Plan. They will also receive a bi-annual newsletter promoting new initiatives and providing information. It is hoped that this will stimulate further tree planting in Warwickshire.”
Membership will be charged for all new schemes at £25 per year. Further information can be obtained from Mark Webster, Senior Landscape Conservation Officer on 01926 736493.