Ullapool Wildlife Watch Group joins forces with the Woodland Trust Scotland to plant trees

Ullapool Wildlife Watch Group in conjunction with The Highland Council’s Countryside Rangers are rolling up their sleeves to be part of a national tree planting movement to double the number of native trees and woods, by planting free trees from the Woodland Trust Scotland.

A community tree planting event is organised for Ullapool Riverside woods on Saturday 2 April  11am to 1pm.

They are receiving a free tree pack, recognising the benefits native trees bring to our wildlife, neighbourhoods and communities.

Over 1,000 registrations were received for community packs this spring and, as a result, more than 200,000 trees will be planted across the UK. Over a hundred communities across Scotland will celebrate with a public tree planting event and more are encouraged to follow this example by registering for a free tree pack for autumn 2011 or spring 2012 from the Trust.

Lindsey Duncan, Highland Council Countryside Ranger and event organiser said: "Tree planting is a fantastic and fun way for us in the Watch Group to do something lasting in our local area. We hope our trees will help attract wildlife and make a real difference to everyone who will see them. It's incredible to think that in just 5 years, our trees will be as tall as us. We have a lot of trees to plant so if you would like to get involved please join us on Saturday 2 April down by the woodland paths. All ages welcome! We'd like as many people from the community to come along and help us."

Rebecca Whitley from the Woodland Trust Scotland added: "We have been overwhelmed by people's enthusiasm to plant trees. Communities are transforming spaces within their neighbourhoods, growing their own fruits and food, creating shade and shelter, and providing new homes for wildlife. Scotland is one of  the least wooded countries in Europe, with less than half of the European average, so we are delighted that Ullapool Wildlife Watch Group are helping reverse this trend. Applications for free packs to plant this autumn can be found on our website, along with lots of advice to help people get started."

Anyone who would like to plant a tree with Ullapool Wildlife Watch Group, come prepared. A coat, warm clothes and a pair of boots or wellies are recommended. Tools provided but bring a spade if you have one!

Players of the People’s Postcode Lottery have enabled over 100 communities this spring to transform their local environment.

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