Dorset Scouts and Volunteers Plant 300 Trees to Combat Climate Change

The CRT was delighted to welcome a group of Dorset scouts to help plant 300 trees at Bere Marsh Farm- and help tackle climate change. 

A diverse range of 10 native tree species were planted on the farm and two troops from the Blandford Scout Group were involved in planting 120 trees.

The remaining trees were planted by Bere Marsh Farm’s dedicated group of regular volunteers, who meet every Friday to support the farm’s environmental initiatives. 

The scouts took part in an educational session about the charity, Bere Marsh Farm, and the ecological benefits of hedgerows before getting hands-on with the planting and mulching process. 

Two troops from Blandford Scouts had an introductory session to the CRT, Bere Marsh Farm and the benefits of hedges.

Busy planting trees, donated by the Woodland Trust.

The trees were generously donated by the Woodland Trust and included a selection of native hedgerow species, such as hawthorn, blackthorn, and hazel, as well as year-round colour trees like wild cherry and rowan, alongside some berry-bearing varieties. 

The tree planting initiative is part of the Great Big Dorset Hedge (GBDH) project, an ambitious long-term campaign aimed at restoring and extending hedgerows throughout the entire county of Dorset. 

Hannah Bosence, Estate Manager at Bere Marsh Farm, said: “It’s crucial for the health of our environment that we ensure our hedgerows are well-maintained. Hedgerows provide a vital habitat for wildlife and play an important role in protecting against the effects of climate change. 

“Hedgerows not only support biodiversity but also provide shelter, food, and habitats for a variety of species, including small mammals, insects, and birds,” she added. 

Hannah also expressed her delight at seeing the scouts engaging with the farm’s environmental work, saying: “It was wonderful to see the scouts so excited and eager to learn about protecting the environment while getting their hands dirty. Their enthusiasm was truly inspiring.” 

Busy planting trees at Bere Marsh Farm.

Learning about conservation at Bere Marsh Farm.

Jonathan Bowell, of Blandford Scout Group, said the scout group had a great morning planting the trees. 

“Personally, I believe that one of the most important things we can do with our young people is expose them to nature and wildlife.  

“If they are exposed, then they have a chance to be fall in love with it and be the future conservation champions. Scouting promotes the great outdoors through activities, events and badges. I thought the opportunity to get our young people volunteering and engaging locally with nature was too good to miss. 

“They enjoyed talking about the conservation projects including the Barn Owl Barn. They then all loved the opportunity to look at the owl pellets and get hands on with that as well. Blandford Scout Group looks forward to future events with Bere Marsh Farm.”