Countdown to one million trees
Plans for a unique and ambitious tree-planting initiative are underway.
One Million Trees in One Day is a charity and cross-border initiative, which aims to plant a million young native trees at sites right across the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland – and all in the space of 24 hours.
The charity is now inviting farmers, smallholders and organisations in Northern Ireland to apply for free trees. The packs – which range from five to 500 saplings – will be delivered next February, in readiness for planting later that month on a date to be announced. Applications for the Republic of Ireland will open soon.
Imogen Rabone is the project co-ordinator and says: “Both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland are sadly lacking when it comes to woodland and tree cover. This project has big plans to facilitate the planting of much-needed trees and woodland in both rural and urban areas throughout Ireland.
“This is a unique opportunity for farmers and landowners to make their mark; to transform landscapes; and to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.”
The initiative has been developed in collaboration with the Irish Natural Forestry Foundation in the Republic of Ireland, with support from the Woodland Trust in Northern Ireland.
Gregor Fulton, operations manager with the Woodland Trust, adds: “This is a fantastic opportunity to be part of a much bigger picture, and to help change landscapes through the simple act of tree planting. Trees and woodland offer so much, from helping to improve water and air quality to providing shelter for crops and livestock. We really hope that local people will give this special project the backing it deserves.”
During the project’s pilot phase (2013 to 2015), more than 400,000 native trees were planted at over 1,000 different sites across the 32 counties.
Trees are given out free of charge. However the project relies upon support to reach its one million tree target. Landowners applying for trees are encouraged to make donations; businesses are also invited to donate and become local sponsors for trees in their area.
Applications close at midnight on 25 November 2015. Trees will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis. To apply for trees; to make a donation; or to simply find out more visit www.onemilliontreesinoneday.com
