With one of the lowest levels of tree cover in the country, Lincolnshire is planning to recreate woodland and see 750,000 trees planted – one for every resident.
A report due to go before the county council’s executive next week outlines the policy which comes on the back of the government’s target of net zero emissions by 2050.
“It is vital that we plant more trees in and around Lincolnshire, but crucial that we choose the right trees, for the right places, and for the right reasons,” the report says.
The Tree and Woodland Planning Strategy outlines the county council’s ambitions in terms of planting new and protecting existing wooded areas.
“By providing appropriate protection, management and community support, we will enable the trees of Lincolnshire to prosper far into the future, for generations to come.”
The county has just over four per cent of tree cover (22,500 hectares or 55,598 acres). The national average is 13 per cent.
“As Lincolnshire has large areas of arable, agricultural land, historically it has not tended to have extensive woodland areas. In addition, many of Lincolnshire’s woodlands are now isolated within the landscape, lacking connectivity,” says the report.
Despite having a low percentage of tree cover, there are some nationally important areas of woodland, including the Lincolnshire Limewoods, at Bardney, which date from medieval times.
Hedgerows are a good tool for reconnecting fragmented woodland habitiat, but Lincolnshire has lost 50 per cent since 1950.
The figure equates to 118,000 miles of lost hedges due largely to the intensification of agriculture during the same period of time.
“The lost has slowed since the 1990s but neglect, damage and removal remain significant threats,” the committee will be told.
The loss of traditional orchards is also highlighted, with a 60 per cent lost over the last 60 years.
The council will be working in partnership with a variety of organisations and businesses to both create and maintain woodland environments.
Under the name LincWoods, the council will work with residents and local authorities to offer free help and advice alongside funding and grant options.
Hedgerows, orchards and trees are all part of the strategy. The hope is to have up to 30 community orchards.
