Hundreds of trees have been planted at our sites over the past few months to help protect woodlands and enhance natural habitats.
Our volunteers helped plant more than 900 trees over the autumn and winter tree planting season, in partnership with environmental habitat management service Green Mantle.
A mixture of native deciduous trees, including English Oak, Silver Birch, Willow and Blackthorn, were planted around Chew Valley, Blagdon and Cheddar reservoirs – all designated as sites of special scientific interest (SSSI).
They host an array of different woodlands which house countless species. The new trees will help increase biodiversity and fill in the gaps where diseased ash trees had to be felled, as well as protecting areas from footfall by creating natural walking corridors.
Trees also play an essential role in the provision of fresh water by stabilising banks, preventing erosion and reducing sedimentation – ensuring we continue to provide quality drinking water to residents.
Kirsty Dunford, our Conservation, Access and Recreations Manager, said:
“I’d like to thank everyone who helped us plant these trees. They will make a big difference to the environments at our sites, helping us to conserve and enhance them for wildlife and local residents to enjoy.
“This season’s planting will also help us meet our goal to reach net zero by 2030, which includes planting 300,000 trees across the wider South West region.”
