Landowners in the National Park can receive trees for free thanks to the Landscape Tree Scheme that we're running, which aims to plant the veteran trees of the future.
Unlike other schemes that look to create whole new woodlands, this scheme is unique in its ambition to plant standalone trees in fields or along existing boundaries. The land where the trees are planted must be grazed by livestock as the trees are planted in very sturdy guards, as shown in the pictures below. The saplings will then be maintained for three years, thus ensuring they get the best possible start. Following this we hope the landowner would continue to care for them.
The Landscape Tree Scheme is open to anyone who has the space available to plant a minimum of ten trees. The trees will be a mixture of species, helping to future-proof their survival by reducing the risk that they succumb to any particular disease. As well as the bigger species, such as oak or small-leaved lime, we are keen on the smaller species, such as crab apple or cherry, that produce blossom and fruit.
We’re keen to actively encourage more tree planting at a time when we are witnessing the loss of many of our ash trees due to widespread ash dieback.Also, when we look 200 or even 500 years into the future of the North York Moors, we need to see the next generation of those gnarly, creviced old trees that support vast numbers of invertebrates. Such trees are essential to healthy ecosystems and of course act as long-term carbon stores that help mitigate climate change.
- Sam Newton, Woodland Creation Officer
Anyone interested in planting trees on their land can contact the National Park Authority via email on conservation@northyorkmoors.org.uk. It would be helpful to include a location map, along with as much detail as possible about your ideas. You can also post your enquiry to the National Park Office in Helmsley, or phone Bill Shaw on 01439 772700.
Alongside the Landscape Tree Scheme, we still offer 100% funding for the creation of new woodlands. Please visit our Woodland Creation Grant page for more information.