Cannock Chase Enriched by Young Tree Planters
In a vibrant community effort, local schoolchildren have planted approximately 30 new fruit trees and established a small ‘mini forest’ in Cannock Chase. This initiative was made possible through government funding awarded to Forest of Mercia CIC, showcasing a collaborative approach to environmental enhancement.
Educational Planting Sessions Engage Pupils
Students from Pye Green Academy and Staffordshire University Academy joined forces with Staffordshire County Council staff to plant apple, pear, and cherry trees along two footpaths in Pye Green. Over three days, the pupils gained hands-on experience in tree planting and care, learning about the importance of trees and how food can be grown in everyday settings.
The newly planted trees are expected to provide beautiful blossom in spring, delicious fruit in autumn, and a welcoming space for local families to enjoy for years to come. This project not only beautifies the area but also serves as an educational tool for the young participants.
Innovative Mini Forest Creation
In addition to the fruit trees, the children helped plant a mini forest using a special method that promotes rapid growth. This tightly packed cluster of native trees and shrubs is designed to grow up to ten times faster than conventional woodland, quickly providing valuable habitats for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
Staffordshire University Academy pupil, Aaron Bickley, aged 12, shared his enthusiasm: “I’ve enjoyed that I got to help the planet and help the community. I learnt that it doesn’t cost anything to help anyone. It felt fun to just see how many trees we could plant. It gets you active, and it’s more fun than just sitting in a classroom and doing work – plus, it helps the environment.”
Community Involvement and Future Care
Funded by Defra’s ‘Trees for Climate’ programme, this project is part of ongoing plans to involve local people in planting and caring for trees. Staffordshire County Council will oversee the maintenance of the trees as part of its site management responsibilities and will continue to engage the local community through tree care activities and fruit harvest events.
The primary goals of the project include:
- Involving more people in looking after their local area
- Teaching children new practical skills
- Supporting wildlife through enhanced habitats
- Creating enjoyable spaces for future generations
This initiative also supports the county council’s broader efforts to preserve Staffordshire’s green spaces and encourage community pride and collaboration.
Official Statements Highlight Collaboration
Hayley Coles, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, commented: “It was wonderful to see the children getting stuck in and enjoying the experience. Planting trees helps young people understand where food comes from and how nature supports us every day. We’re really grateful to the schools and the Forest of Mercia for working with us on this project, and we hope local families will enjoy watching these trees grow over the years.”
Dave Knowles from Forest of Mercia CIC added: “It is great to be working with local children on this tree planting project. This planting was funded through Trees for Climate, meaning we can work with different communities to involve them in tree planting and improving their green spaces for the future.”
Staffordshire residents interested in supporting more tree planting initiatives in their area are encouraged to contact the county council’s Tree Strategy Manager for further information.
