East Devon District Council has announced the launch of its Tree Champion scheme, a new initiative designed to mobilise community volunteers in identifying land suitable for tree planting across the district.
Volunteers are encouraged to explore their local areas and highlight opportunities ranging from unused fields and prospective orchard sites to hedgerows in need of restoration. This community-driven support is essential in helping the Council achieve its ambitious target of reaching 30% canopy cover by 2035.
Cllr Richard Jefferies, EDDC’s Portfolio Holder for Nature and Climate, said: “The launch of the Tree Champion scheme marks an exciting milestone in delivering our Trees, Hedgerow and Woodland Strategy. Community involvement is fundamental to its success. Whether it’s restoring a forgotten hedgerow or organising a tree-planting event with local volunteers. This scheme empowers residents to make a tangible, positive impact on East Devon’s landscape.”
Launched in July in response to the Council’s Declaration of a Nature Emergency, the Trees, Hedgerow and Woodland Strategy (THAWS) places biodiversity enhancement at its core. Hedge recovery, habitat restoration and support for natural regeneration all form key pillars of the strategy, collectively strengthening and enriching East Devon’s natural environment.
Carl Harrison, EDDC’s Tree Technician, said: “We are committed to supporting local people on their tree-planting journeys. We’re asking residents to get out into their communities and begin conversations with neighbours, parish councils, farmers, land agents, community groups and local businesses to identify those interested in planting trees on their land. Every new planting opportunity will bolster East Devon’s landscape and moves us closer to our shared goal of 30% canopy cover by 2035.”
Amelia Davies, EDDC’s Engagement and Participation Officer, added:
“By gathering this information directly from communities, EDDC can connect stakeholders, landowners and groups with the right organisations to support their tree-planting projects. Our role is to act as a facilitator, bringing people together in an area where there has often been a disconnect - to drive meaningful improvements in local biodiversity.”
To find out more about the Tree Strategy, please visit The Trees, Hedge & Woodland Strategy (THaWS) or to get involved, email Carl Harrison at carl.harrison@eastdevon.gov.uk or Amelia Davies at amlia.davies@eastdevon.gov.uk.
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