Around 70 new oak trees were planted at a family-friendly event in the New Forest National Park in February 2023thanks to the help of local schools and communities. The event was run by the New Forest Agricultural Show Society (NFASS), the New Forest National Park Authority and the Hampshire Forest Partnership and complemented the existing planting project already at New Park (home to the annual New Forest Show).
Families taking part in the event not only helped with tree planting but enjoyed fun educational activities from Paul Brockman of Woodlander Coppice as well as the New Forest National Park rangers.
Denis Dooley, Chief Executive of the NFASS said: ‘We have a great number of trees here including many beautiful oaks, hedging species, and mixed and ancient woodland. For some years we have had a tree planting programme in place, overseen by our dedicated volunteer Martin Fletcher who ensures that we are continually planting trees to sustain the stock.
‘Taking inspiration from the Queen’s Green Canopy tree planting initiative, we were keen to involve the community and expand our planting project, creating a living legacy for future generations of visitors to New Park to enjoy.’
The new trees will enhance the natural beauty of New Park while creating important new habitats for the wide array of wildlife there.
To find out how you can get involved in future events visit our Facebook and Instagram, or if you have land that would be perfect for a tree planting, email us at [email protected].