Bringing new life to the Faughan Valley
07 November 2009Burntollet Wood, just outside Londonderry, is opening its leafy doors to nature lovers on Saturday 7 November, from 12 to 4pm.
Proud owners the Woodland Trust are inviting both local people and visitors to roll their sleeves up for a special afternoon of tree planting. It’s the start of an ambitious plan to plant over 36,000 native trees at Burntollet - which, at 23 hectares, is one of the Trust’s largest-ever land purchases in Northern Ireland.
As the young trees grow, they will buffer the nearby ancient woods which dot the banks of the beautiful Burntollet River. And within as little as 12 years, today’s bare land will be transformed into flourishing woodland - a fantastic natural resource for the benefit of people and wildlife.
The planting is part of the Woodland Trust’s ‘Tree For All’ campaign. Funded by Northern Ireland Environment Agency, Tree For All aims to give both adults and children the chance to get close to nature.
Michelle McCaughtry, events officer with the Woodland Trust, says: “Here’s a wonderful opportunity for everyone - from both sides of the border - to plant the first of many trees at Burntollet Wood. It’s a chance to get outdoors and active, while enjoying the stunning beauty of the Faughan Valley landscape. And through the simple act of tree planting, you’ll be making a personal, lasting contribution to that landscape.
“The public planting day will be followed by a special week-long programme of events specifically for schools. Over 200 schoolchildren will take part in woodland discovery days, enjoying a whole range of crafty activities under the guidance of professional artists.”
Tree planters are asked to wrap up warm and wear welly boots or sturdy footwear. All children must be accompanied by an adult. For further information visit www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/burntollet or telephone the Woodland Trust on 028 9127 5787.