The North Devon Biosphere have been working with Boode Farm in Braunton to improve their land in terms of natural flood management. The farmer received funding to plant up to 1000 trees on their farm therefore the biosphere worked with the farmer to choose the most suitable sites for tree planting. The farm is in a rapid response catchment therefore tree planting will help to reduce runoff and improve water quality in the River Caen.

At 10 am on Sunday 23rd February approximately 30 volunteers from the local community, including individuals, families and friends met at the farm ready in their wellies to tree plant. Andy Bell, the biosphere reserve coordinator led the group to the first improved pasture site and gave a quick demonstration of how to plant a tree including the tree planting plan, different styles of digging, fixing in stakes and attaching biodegradable tree shelters. Tree shelters are important as they provide a micro-climate for trees which results in better initial establishment and higher survival rates; as well as providing protection from animals such as rabbits and deer.

After 2 hours approximately 200 trees had been planted in the first tree planting site, a fantastic effort! The team regrouped for a photo (cover photo), some volunteers then headed off whilst others joined to start planting at the second site.

The second site was next to a stream so a fair bit wetter than the first location; therefore trees that were suited to these conditions were chosen. Overall the tree mixture included pedunculate and sessile oak, silver birch, wild cherry, small leaved lime, aspen and rowan and crack willow.

By approximately 3pm the second site had been planted up with over 600 trees and the sun even came out for the afternoon! In total over 800 trees were planted, these trees will not only help to reduce flooding and improve water quality, they will also sequester carbon and provide a habitat for wildlife.

Thank you to the amazing volunteers from the Braunton community, we couldn't have done it without your help!

‍

‍

Feeling inspired? Future tree planting events coming soon, keep an eye out on our facebook page!

If you live in Braunton why not check out the community group Regen Braunton or the Braunton Countryside Centre for local opportunities.

#pledgefornature #community #braunton #northdevon