About Us
Why are we so passionate about trees?
A good question. After all, doesn’t Witham have a large number of mature trees? We do, but not necessarily in all parts of our town. And trees, like the rest of us, do not live forever. So if future generations are to enjoy a mature green landscape, we need to plant replacements now. But there are many reasons why we need more trees. Trees play an important part in our lives, and the benefits they bring have been highlighted by the Woodland Trust and include:
Improving air quality by removing pollutants (it is estimated that 24,000 people in the UK die prematurely from air pollution);
Lowering the rates of asthma among children;
Reducing levels of noise and dust;
Providing shade in summer, particularly important where children play;
Increasing property values.
Trees, therefore, play a crucial role in creating a healthy environment, and recent legislation in England has begun to refocus attention on community well-being and the importance of the environment to the health of both individuals and the community.
What have we been up to since our founding in 2012?
First, members of the Group conducted an extensive survey of the town to identify potential locations for additional tree planting. This resulted in an astonishing number of over a thousand possibilities. Not all of these sites will turn out to be suitable, for example, many green spaces will be found, on detailed investigation, to contain underground services, making the location unsuitable for tree planting. However, the initial survey provided the Group and its principal sponsor, Witham Town Council, with enormous encouragement to continue with this project.
Mission
To protect and enhance the tree cover in Witham for the benefit of local residents and the environment, ensuring a greener future for all.
Vision
To create a thriving and sustainable urban forest that contributes to the well-being of our community, both today and for future generations.
Values
Mayor’s Award
The Tree Group has been operating in the town for over ten years, steadily planting trees across Witham to enhance our green spaces and combat climate change.
Our work has now been recognized with the presentation of the Environment Award by Mayor Councillor Jack Bayford.
The presentation took place on 26 February 2023 at St Nicolas Church, following the annual Civic Service. The award consisted of a framed certificate, which was received by the Group’s Chair, Barry Fleet, on behalf of the Tree Group.
The Committee and volunteer helpers were present to see the presentation and enjoy tea in the Parish Hall afterwards!
What type of trees do we plant?
The answer, of course, depends on the location. Where space permits, larger native trees such as oaks, pines, and poplars would be typical choices. However, in more densely developed areas, trees better suited to urban environments would be chosen. Fortunately, several trees have been specially developed in recent years to meet this requirement. So, the right tree for the right place would be the type of tree we plant.
Looking after our trees after planting. We live in an area with relatively low rainfall. It is essential, therefore, that newly planted trees are watered for two years after planting. Each tree is planted with an irrigation tube surrounding the root ball that enables water to be delivered where it is most beneficial to the development of the tree’s root structure in the early years. The Tree Group has a 1,000-litre bowser that enables us to ensure our trees thrive during this critical period. Bowser runs take place most weeks throughout the summer months.
Meet the members of
Witham Tree Group’s committee
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