Stevenage Tree Wardens

The aim of the scheme is to raise awareness of the importance of trees by encouraging volunteers to champion, conserve and enhance their local community’s trees and woodlands.

Today there are many thousands of Tree Wardens in local networks throughout the UK, forming a volunteer force of immense value to the environment.  Together they devote nearly two million volunteer hours a year to trees.  These tree wardens work closely with their local authority, conservation organisations, local partnerships and residents to protect and improve the local environment.

Trees are the longest lived organisms on earth.  They are a precious natural heritage, which bring many benefits for both people and wildlife.  Stevenage is fortunate in having around 40,000 trees planted though out the streets and parks during the development of the town.  But they are constantly under threat from disease, storms, and vandalism.

Stevenage Borough Council set up a local Tree Warden Scheme in autumn 1999.  Since that time it has grown from strength to strength.  Some basic training, including a hands on introduction to hedge laying, woodland coppicing, and veteran tree identification, was completed, and the tree wardens have been the eyes and ears of their local communities ever since.  The Tree Wardens have been on field trips, and have initiated a number of new tree planting schemes, both small and large, throughout the town. 

Community involvement is a central aim of the Tree Warden Scheme, and working with local schools and other conservation groups can help in encouraging others to value the towns natural environment.

New Tree Wardens are always welcome.  More details about the national Tree Warden Scheme are available at www.treecouncil.org.uk, or e-mail parks&amenities@stevenage.gov.uk for information about the local scheme.