– Local community and supporters welcome to support tree planting day on 24th March –
We’re celebrating a donation of 250 native trees, valued at £2000, and welcome the local community to help with the planting of the trees on Sunday 24th March. Please contact info@tfgc.org.uk to get involved.
The donation to Ferne from Trees for Good Causes (TfGC), comprises a diverse mix of native broadleaf species of trees. These have been grown and seasoned for three years in Devon. This contribution aims to enhance our landscape. As well as providing natural habitats for the diverse range of animal residents. Additionally, it will promote rich biodiversity to support wildlife species within the Blackdown Hills.
Kevan Hodges, CEO at Ferne says, “We’re incredibly grateful to Trees for Good Causes for this generous donation. These trees will not only provide essential shelter and forage for our animals but also contribute to the broader goal of enhancing biodiversity within our sanctuary.”
The trees donated include a mix of Oak, Holly, Bird Cherry, Hawthorn, Beech, Blackthorn, Alder, Rowan, Hazel, and Guelder Rose. These will mature in the next 10 years. Additionally, they have been specifically chosen due to their ability to thrive in local conditions. This will ensure their successful integration into the landscape at Ferne.
TfGC are planting the trees as part of their open tree planting day initiative, taking place on 24th March. All members of the community are welcome on the day to join together in planting the trees. Although, are encouraged to bring their own spades.
Joanna Benbow, Director and Co-Founder. at Trees for Good Causes, says, “We’re thrilled to collaborate with Ferne Animal Sanctuary for our upcoming open tree planting day. We’re excited to be involved in this project as part of our ongoing mission to nurture and preserve local environments. Together with local communities, we will plant trees to create necessary shelter for animals cared for at the sanctuary. We would like to thank everyone involved in supporting our joined-up efforts.”
Our aim
Unlike conventional farming practices that prioritise open grasslands, our aim is to provide a landscape reminiscent of the New Forest or the moors of Devon. By introducing local trees and shrubs, we seeks to offer the animal residents the opportunities to exhibit natural behaviours, including foraging and seeking shelter.
We’ve identified three fields on the western fringe of our land for tree planting. These areas are vulnerable to prevailing Southwest winds and will benefit from the shelter and windbreak the trees will provide upon reaching maturity.