Tree Wardens scheme to be relaunched in Wiltshire

Sunday, 30 July 2023 01:00

Following a successful bid for almost £300,000 from a Government fund, Wiltshire Council is relaunching the national Tree Warden scheme in the county.

The Council, in partnership with Swindon Borough Council, received a £294,800 grant from the Government’s Forestry Commission and DEFRA Woodland Creation Accelerator Fund.

The aim of the fund is to provide local authorities with financial support to bring on board the additional professional expertise they need to drive tree planting and woodland creation commitments.

The Tree Warden Scheme is a national initiative led by the Tree Council, and Wiltshire Council is looking to recruit volunteer Tree Wardens in each Wiltshire town and parish area as well as across the Borough of Swindon.

Tree Wardens will work with Wiltshire Council Woodland Officers and act as local tree champions who help plant, promote and protect trees in appropriate locations in their local area.

Projects that Tree Wardens can be involved in could include:

Arranging local tree planting days

Watering and caring for local trees

Working with the local authorities and community groups to plant and care for street trees

Rejuvenating local Woodlands

Raising funds and finding land for tree planting projects

Going into local schools to talk about the value of trees

Cllr Tamara Reay, Wiltshire Council Portfolio Holder for Climate Change, said: “We’re delighted to have been successful in receiving this funding, which we can use to help us achieve our ambitious tree planting targets, whilst also promoting the enhancement of existing trees and woodlands – all key themes in our Natural Environment Plan.

“We need to take action to ensure our future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty that Wiltshire landscapes have to offer. Tree Wardens are local people who are keen to plant, look after and stand up for the trees in their local area. The role is voluntary, so anyone who is interested can decide how much time they dedicate to it and how it fits in with their normal routine. You do not need to be an expert to take up this role, as we will provide knowledge and training, all you require is a genuine interest in trees and the local environment.

“I would encourage anyone interested in taking up this role in their local area, to have a look at https://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/trees-and-woodland-in-wiltshire or contact either their local Parish Council or the Woodland Grant Application and Planting Support (GAPS) team on GAPS@wiltshire.gov.uk for more information.”