Creating woodland
Planting new woodland and hedgerows offers many benefits, including:
- woodland and hedgerows are biodiverse habitats, providing havens for a wide range of wildlife species, including mammals, birds, insects, plants and fungi
- nature supports physical health and mental wellbeing by providing opportunities for relaxation, recreation, employment and volunteering for people of all ages
- trees and hedgerows support pollinators like bees, butterflies, moths, beetles and wasps, boosting crop production and providing natural management of pests
- planting trees and hedgerows enhance the character of the local landscape and improves connectivity of valuable habitats
- they improve air quality by removing pollution from our atmosphere, including capturing and storing carbon dioxide
- trees help to improve water quality and reduce the risk of flooding to surrounding areas
- leaf litter and roots significantly improve soil quality and structure, helping soil to store more carbon and improving crop yields
- they provide shelter and shade for livestock animals such as cattle, sheep, horses and poultry
- sustainably managed woodlands can create additional income through the sale of timber, wood fuel and natural capital credits
If you are interested in planting woodland but not sure where to start, submit an expression of interest or you can contact the Forest of Marston Vale.