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.”

More from Local News

Wiltshire Council strengthens commitment to tackling violence against women and girls

Wiltshire Council has reaffirmed its commitment to ending violence against women and girls (EVAWG) by agreeing to appoint a dedicated councillor champion to help drive awareness, support partnership working and ensure the issue remains a priority across the organisation.
A second look could save a life - motorists urged to look again for bikers

Wiltshire Police are urging motorists to take a second look for motorcyclists when using the county's roads.
World Cup campaign sees reduction in drink drive offences and increase in domestic abuse reporting

A Wiltshire Police campaign aimed at tackling drink driving and raising awareness of domestic abuse support during the FIFA World Cup has led to a decrease in drink drive offences and a rise in domestic abuse-related reporting.
Trek the Sahara Desert in support of Salisbury Hospital’s Stars Appeal

The Stars Appeal, Salisbury Hospital’s Charity, is looking for adventurous supporters to take on a 100km Sahara Desert trek challenge.
Motorcyclist sustains serious injuries following collision on A30

A man has sustained life-changing injuries following a road traffic collision on the A30 in Fovant.
Local clothing store Daliz brings an afternoon of free live music to Salisbury

Music lovers are invited to enjoy an afternoon of live performances as independent clothing store Daliz hosts Daliz Day Fest on Saturday 25th July at Cross Keys, Salisbury.
Cast Announced for Haunting of Hill House Salisbury Playhouse Production

The stage adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House, adapted by Olivier and BAFTA Award-winning writer Stef Smith, has announced its full cast ahead of its world premiere at Salisbury Playhouse this autumn.
Salisbury City Council announce plans to celebrate Salisbury 800

A landmark celebration marking the city's 800th birthday will bring people together on Sunday 25 July 2027, with Salisbury City Council having revealed the first exciting plans for a day of festivities and inviting the community to help make history.