See how our woodlands have grown

September 28, 2011

Today’s been a gorgeous sunny day in the Yorkshire Dales – perfect for a trip out to see how some of our woodlands are doing…

We visited Westgate Farm Wood – our Supporter Wood planted in 2004 – and Thornbrook Wood – our 2006 Supporter Wood – both located in Thornton in Lonsdale, at the western edge of the Yorkshire Dales national park.

The trees in both woods are doing really well – many are taller than me! – and the areas of saplings we planted 5-7 years ago are now starting to look like proper little woods, casting areas of dappled shade and creating a habitat for wildlife.

Westgate Farm Wood, Sept 2011

Each tree in our Supporter Woodlands has been planted on behalf of, or in memory of, someone special.  Every year people with a passion for the Dales choose to Dedicate a tree in the Yorkshire Dales through our Tree Planting scheme.  It’s a unique way to celebrate a birthday, christening, wedding or anniversary.  With prices starting at just £10 per tree, its a gift that will grow and grow; and it doesn’t cost the earth.

In spring this year we planted our millionth native broadleaf tree – a real milestone which was made possible thanks to the donations of our supporters and business partners.

Trees growing strong at Thornbrook Wood

Thornbrook Wood alone is made up of 7,975 native broadleaved trees and shrubs covering 3.75 hectares.  The species planted here include Oak, Rowan, Alder, Birch, Wild Cherry, Field Maple, Goat Willow, Crab Apple, Holly, Hazel, Guelder Rose, Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Dogwood.  The trees were all individually protected with tree guards when we planted them to prevent rabbit damage, and it seems to have done the trick – walking round today we were delighted to see that the vast majority of the trees are healthy and growing strong.

If you’d like to find out more about dedicating a tree, visit our website. Our current Supporter Woodland is Harrison’s Wood located near Pateley Bridge.