Record tree-planting season in the High Peak

Why are you planting trees?

We have been planting trees as part of a programme to protect and develop healthy woodlands and ensure trees and shrubs in the landscape are creating habitats for wildlife, increasing biodiversity and combating the effects of climate change.

What trees have been planted and why?

Over the winter, native species of trees including sessile oak, silver birch, rowan, hawthorn, downey birch, alder and bird cherry have been planted in the sheltered valleys and cloughs that lead onto the High Peak moors.

This work supports a project to reintroduce woodland and scattered trees and shrubs where they would have once been. The trees will keep the valley sides stable at the same time as providing shelter and food for wildlife.

The tree-planting has taken place thanks to funding from Severn Trent, the Forestry Commission, Natural England and donations from supporters.

How do trees help to tackle the climate and nature crisis?

Craig Best, General Manager for National Trust in the Peak District, said: “It is well known that trees are important to help us tackle the climate and nature crisis. They store carbon, stabilise soil and are home to a huge variety of wildlife which our ecosystems rely on. The work we are doing in the Peak District to make sure the right tree is in the right place will safeguard this beautiful place for the future and have a range of benefits for people and nature.

“Rangers, volunteers, farm tenants, partners and contractors have all helped to plant this huge number of trees and reach this milestone. I know we can achieve a great deal more together as our work continues in the future.”