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CJS Weekly: Special Edition Supplements.

22/11/04 - Trees and Hedges.

    
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Countryside Jobs Service Weekly Special Edition 22 November 04
in association with The Tree Council for National Tree Week.

Trees and Hedges Supplement.

Stars to launch National Tree Week

Two famous faces from stage and screen, Griff Rhys Jones and Celia Imrie, will launch The Tree Council’s National Tree Week on 24 November by planting one of the many thousands of trees that will go into the ground during this UK-wide celebration of trees and woods.

This year’s theme is ‘plant our heritage’ — and Griff Rhys Jones has already done a great deal to raise the profile of Britain’s heritage through the TV series, ‘Restoration’. He and actress Celia Imrie will plant a ‘heritage tree of the future’ near the London home of the RSA (Royal Society for the encouragement of Arts, Manufactures and Commerce), which is hosting the launch as part of its 250th anniversary tree planting initiative.

"We are marking The Tree Council’s 30th anniversary by challenging everyone to follow this lead and plant trees for future generations to enjoy. Thanks in great part to the effort that arboriculturalists and conservationists put into National Tree Week, up to a million trees are planted each year as a result of this winter festival," says Tree Council Campaigns Director Kevin Hand. "Planted properly and given a few minutes of annual care in their early years, young trees are well set to grow into heritage trees — green monuments of great historical or cultural significance."

During the Week, actor Norman Painting — Phil Archer from the BBC Radio 4 series — will join pupils of Campion School, Leamington Spa, to plant trees and help transform an area of playing field into a nature reserve. Painting’s Plantation, as it will be known, is The Tree Council’s 80th birthday tribute to him as one of its vice presidents. Campion is among 200 schools and community groups giving their surroundings a green make-over, backed by Tree Council grants. Director-General Pauline Buchanan Black says: "We offer these grants to help them plant trees in what are often neglected public open spaces or barren tarmac playgrounds. Trees are such a vital part of our heritage, and it is essential that today’s generations continue to plant and nurture new ones for people to enjoy in the future."

National Tree Week is sponsored by Anglo American plc and its subsidiary, Mondi Packaging, whose employees will also be planting trees in schools and communities near its sites. Plantings like these and other events planned by Tree Council member organisations, its volunteer Tree Wardens and other supporters, are at the heart of the Week. Some Tree Wardens will plant hedge trees donated by one of those members, the Woodland Trust, as part of its Tree For All initiative. They will be doing their bit for The Tree Council’s Hedge Tree Campaign, run in partnership with National Grid Transco, to help reverse the decline of a once characteristic feature of the countryside. A new element of National Tree Week is Trees and Faiths. People are encouraged to get together to celebrate the links with trees that appear in almost all the world’s religions.

The Tree Council, founded in 1974 to keep up the momentum of the Plant a Tree in ’73 campaign and bring organisations together to work for trees, ran the first National Tree Week in 1975. Today it is a partnership of 150 members, ranging from professional, non-governmental, specialist and trade organisations, including other conservation charities, to local authorities and government bodies

Details of National Tree Week events — from planting to walks, talks, story telling, tree dressing and woodcrafts — are regularly updated on the website, www.treecouncil.org.uk, and are also available on 020 7940 8180 during office hours.
Country Land and Business Association (CLA) With almost one hundred years experience, the Country Land and Business Association is the premier organisation safeguarding the interests ofthose responsible for land, property and business throughout England and Wales www.cla.org.uk
 
Visit www.rfs.org.uk for all tree wisdom.
     
Forestry Commission of Great Britain Protecting and expanding Britain's forests and woodlands and increasing their value to society and the environment. For career information and details of current vacancies visit www.forestry.gov.uk/employment or phone 0845 FORESTS (3673787).
 
North Highland Forest Trust is a Charitable Company which promotes community forestry within the Caithness and Sutherland area. The Trust works closely with community groups or individuals, providing advice and practical support for sustainable forestry and wood use initiatives, such as tree planting, milling timber or wood fuel projects. www.nhft.org.uk or 01408 633 986

 
The Ancient Tree Forum seeks to secure the future of ancient trees through advocacy for greater protection, encouraging research, promoting best conservation practice and increasing people's enjoyment of old trees.. The Forum works with the Woodland Trust to conserve this priceless legacy. For details ring 01476 581135 or see www.ancient-tree-forum.org.uk .
 
The Woodland Trust is the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity. Find out more at www.woodland-trust.org.uk The Trust has recently launched an ambitious new campaign, Tree For All. Tree For All is offering schools the chance to apply for a free hedge or hazel copse pack. For further details visit www.treeforall.org.uk
     
The Tree Advice Trust publishes advice on the cultivation and management of trees. The Trust has a disease diagnosis service and operates a consultancy service. The Tree Advice Trust is a registered UK charity. For details of publications and services visit www.treehelp.info Helpline 09065 161147 (premium rate service)
 
Northwoods is the North East of England's woodland intiative, and works to promote and grow the tree and timber business of the Region. Providing advice, training and funding for the private sector, as well as advice, project management services and training for the public sector. Northwoods training courses are available to anyone outside the North East, www.northwoods.org.uk 01669 621 489.
     
The Wildlife Trusts are a partnership of 47 local Trusts across the UK. Their vision is 'an environment richer in wildlife for everyone' and they're the largest charity exclusively dedicated to conserving all UK habitats and species, with 530,000 members plus 62,000 junior members. For further information please visit www.wildlifetrusts.org
 
Inspiring People, Improving Places. BTCV, the UK’s leading practical conservation charity, helps 140,000 volunteers a year to improve their urban and rural environments. Activities include regular conservation tasks, UK and International Conservation Holidays, Green Gym® as well as training opportunities and online shop. Tel: 01302 572244 Web: www.btcv.org e-mail: information@btcv.org.uk
     
The National Urban Forestry Unit is a charity working with central and local government, businesses and other environmental charities to help create a more tree-rich environment as an important means of improving the quality of life for the millions of people who live and work in towns and cities. www.nufu.org.uk
 
Silvanus Trust plants some 5,000 trees with communities and schools every year, and has funding from various sources to do so. Principal funder of the trees themselves is Western Power Distribution. For the forthcoming season, we plan schemes across Devon and Cornwall. Contact us for more information on 01579-372100.
     
Trees For Cities (www.treesforcities.org) is an independent charity working in Addis Ababa, Bucharest, Madrid, Manchester and London. We aim to tackle global warming, create wildlife habitats and beautify cities by planting trees in urban areas of greatest need. The public can get involved by sponsoring trees or becoming a volunteer.
 
Forestry & Timber Association is the leading representative body for all those involved in the growing, tending, harvesting and management of trees, throughout UK. Benefits include: information through quarterly magazine, regional and HQ staff, conferences, field meetings and website; chemical, legal and taxation helplines; biennial exhibition and South West Woodland Show. www.forestryandtimber.org
     
Central Scotland Forest Trust leads the creation of the Central Scotland Forest by, with partners, improving the landscape and environment between Edinburgh, Glasgow, Lanark and Falkirk. Through a mosaic of woodlands, the Forest will become an attractive place which will enhance the lives, and life chances, of those living, working and playing there. www.csft.co.uk
    
So you think you want to be a Lumberjack!
Jobs working with trees tend to be divided into two areas Forestry and Arboriculture. Both are involved in the planting and care of trees but with differing aims. Forestry is defined as "the science and practice of managing forests and woodlands". But modern multi-purpose forestry is about far more than just growing trees for timber and now embraces everything from planting and managing large coniferous forests to creating and tending small broadleaved woodlands, raising young trees in nurseries to felling and delivering timber to wood-using industries. Timber production still underpins forestry practices but at all levels the forestry staff's remit is broader than ever. Woods and forests are managed to offer multiple benefits for people, wildlife and the environment in general. Arboriculture is the science and practice of producing and managing tree and shrubs in both town and countryside with amenity as the main objective. Sharing many skills with forestry but with its own unique requirements particularly in urban situations where maintenance and protection of individual trees is of high importance, but timber production is not paramount. Arboriculture can involve producing and planting amenity trees and shrubs, and then maintaining their health by pruning, thinning and tree surgery operations. Designing, implementing and managing landscaping schemes is a major part of an arboriculturalist's work.
There is tough competition for jobs at all levels but a wide spectrum of opportunities exists to encourage people seeking an outdoor life to build an interesting and rewarding career. Here are a few of the posts you might see advertised. Jobs of similar levels in both sectors are detailed together.
Forestry Workers and Craftsmen Manual workers form the largest sector of the workforce. Work varies can involve tree planting, maintenance, thinning and felling of trees using chainsaws or multi-million pound computerised harvesting machines, road building, fencing, sawing timber, cutting coppice and preparing other woodland produce.
Normally no academic qualifications are required to start. But it is essential to get Vocational Qualifications or a similar Craft Skills award through approved training and practice. Arborist Craftsman Normally no academic qualifications are needed, but craft skills training is a must. The work can entail tree climbing and pruning, use of chainsaws, tree planting, use of chippers and stump grinders, and maintenance of plant health. Forestry Contractor A self employed forest worker, completing many of the tasks of the forest worker but coupled with the motivation and ability to set up and run your own small business.
Forestry Foreman In addition to the practical tasks of the forest worker the foreman will organise and supervise others by implementing instructions from managers. Tasks could include laying out planting schemes; ordering materials; completing timesheets; work measurement; marking, measuring and dispatching timber; inspecting plantations. Foremen usually need technical training and an NVQ level 3 or equivalent. Arboriculturist Supervisor/Foreman To progress from craft level to supervisory duties calls for a wider range of technical skills and the ability to organise and supervise others. The job might entail implementing plans and ensuring specified work standards are met. Supervisors may measure work output, complete timesheets, control the use of resources and ensure compliance with safety standards too. They may have to assess and report on the health and condition of trees and woodlands. Getting a job at this level normally requires technical training and vocational qualifications.
Forestry Supervisors and Managers For posts at these levels, people normally need a higher education qualification at or above National Diploma level. At this level you would usually commence your career as a Technical Manager/Supervisor. Supervisors plan and control forest operations, ensuring the forest environment is protected and enhanced. It may also include managing public recreation and access. There are chances to specialise in wildlife conservation, recreation, training, research, harvesting, marketing and processing.
Forest Managers may oversee one or more supervisors, be responsible for a number of staff, undertake research, or deal with Health & Safety and other legislation. Duties could include designing and inspecting tree-planting schemes, carrying out valuations and purchase or selling of timber and other woodland produce whilst safeguarding the natural environment. Managers usually hold a Degree, BTEC or SCOTVEC (SQA) HND, a VQ 4 level or a Post-graduate title.
Arboriculture Managers do the actual planning, budgeting and control of amenity tree schemes and operations. Managers monitor how plans and projects are implemented to check they meet the required standard of design, layout, effectiveness, safety and cost. They need to be competent in preparing contracts for tree work and in evaluating competitive tenders. To get a job at this level, at the top of their profession, people normally need a degree, a relevant HND or an equivalent level 4 VQ.
From the Royal Forestry Society, www.rfs.org.uk

ARBORICULTURE AND COUNTRYSIDE AT MERRIST WOOD CAMPUS

Merrist Wood Campus offers full-time, part-time and short courses in a wide range of land-based subjects including, arboriculture and countryside.

The campus has considerable experience in providing quality education and training to enable you to acquire all the practical and theoretical skills of an arboriculturist or for work in the countryside sector. This includes tree climbing and chainsaw skills as well as the technical and professional knowledge needed by those who manage trees and woodland.

For more information regarding any of the courses at the Merrist Wood Campus please contact Learner Services on 01483 884040. You can also visit our website at www.guildford.ac.uk.

A Day in the Life of a Hedgelayer by Paul Blissett
At the hedge I sharpen my axe, billhook and chainsaw before starting work. If it's good weather and I'm working by a road then I'll put up an advertising sign on the hedge and it’s quite likely that someone will stop for a chat. Those that stop generally tell me they used to lay hedges themselves or of relatives who did so in the past and how they never had chainsaws in their day. Comment on the hedge itself, though, is invariably favourable, unlike in the past when fewer understood why hedgelaying actually takes place. It's a good idea to finish a short section of hedge completely so that people can see what you are actually producing.
If it's a long or difficult hedge and particularly if I've got a lot of work on then I'll probably be working with someone else, perhaps with them clearing out the hedge ahead of me, sharpening stakes and trimming up the binders that go on the top of the hedge to keep everything in place. Otherwise, if the hedge is isolated, you can find yourself alone day after day with no-one else in sight. There are many compensations, however - I remember hearing on the radio of the decline of the skylark at the same time that I worked on three consecutive sites where their song kept me company throughout the day. Your awareness of the seasons, weather and plants all around you is heightened. You are regularly kept company by robins and wrens only too keen to seek out any tasty morsels revealed by your work.
Once a tool has been picked up it's a question of doing as much with it as possible before putting it down again. Having a hedge laid is a bit like having your roof mended - you don't call anyone in until there is a problem so, apart from hedgelaying competitions, ideal hedges for laying will mostly wait until they are somewhat less than ideal. Normally it's the chainsaw that does most of the work. Only a minimum of dead wood is put back into the hedge where necessary to produce a consistent appearance along the length of the hedge. Once the hedge is laid, stakes are driven in vertically into the ground, fist to elbow distance apart and the top of the hedge secured with binders of hazel or willow. Then the hedge is given a final trim for overall appearance. Once you have the eye for it, it doesn't take significantly longer to produce a fine looking hedge rather than a rough and ready one. You aim to get all the laid stems, pleachers, running true and the real reward is the sense of satisfaction in the end result; not subjugating the hedge and ironing out every little irregularity but incorporating them into the hedge in a compact and visually pleasing way. And there you have it, a hedge that shouldn't need to be laid again for perhaps 15-25 years, depending on the trimming that takes place in the meantime. Yes, it looks severe, but it is just one point in the management cycle and explains why hedges many hundreds of years old still exist as hedges today. By the following summer, the casual passer by will not notice that anything has been done as the hedge and surrounding herb layer hide the structure of the laid hedge.
People often ask how much hedge you can lay in a day. Apart from the fact that every hedge is different, the length of the day varies hugely throughout the hedgelaying season which runs from October to the end of March. Yesterday I laid 32 paces of hedge, just a shade under 30 yards, but this is exceptional. Fifteen yards a day is more normal but it can be less and largely depends on the amount of clearing out involved.
Having started both my current jobs as hobbies it’s great to have been able to convert each successfully to paid employment. My other job is as a yoga teacher which may sound incongruous but it certainly helps keep me injury free!
The author has been a professional hedgelayer for over 10 years working predominantly in Beds, Bucks and Herts though sometimes venturing further afield. He can be contacted by telephone on 01525 382755 or via his website at www.hedgelayer.freeserve.co.uk where you can also see all the hedges he has laid in the last few years.
 
Events Diary – Tree & Hedge related. All one day courses unless specified.
Details of all these events and much more are available on our website at: countryside-jobs.com/Training/Training_Courses.htm
Based in the Southwest - providing access to short courses in legislative subjects – Chainsaws, Brushcutters, First Aid, Woodchippers and a variety of countryside skills courses. Most courses are Nationally recognised with HSE approved certification. Details: Lynher Training website - WWW.LYNHER.COM - or: e-mail: admin@lynher.com Tel: 01822 832232 Fax: 01822 832902
Native woodland restoration and creation. Join Flora locale on 12th April 2005, for the 'New Wildwoods' day of the 'Native flora for the future' conference. Topics include direct seeding, natural regeneration, climate change, native seed source, the introduction of ground flora and woodland futures. Check out www.floralocale.org for more details.
"Winter tree identification workshop" 28th November 2.30 - 4.30pm at Drum Castle, Aberdeenshire
The leaves have fallen - what on earth is that tree? Come and learn how to identify some of our common trees in winter. Charge NTS members £2.50 Non-members £4.50 Booking essential Tel 01330 844651
Wednesday 24th November
Winter Woodland Tree Identification CMA Training Day at RSPB Leighton Moss, contact the organiser on: 01670 534078, IainRobson@northumberland.gov.uk,
Strimmer / brushcutter at Northop, Mold run by Welsh College of Horticulture Details from: 01352 841000
Saturday 27th
Coppicing In Gamlingay Wood run by The Wildlife Trusts, Cambs, 01604 405285, vera.herman@wildlifebcnp.org,
Tree Planting & Aftercare, BTCV Kent at Wye. Details & booking: 01233 812033, kent@btcv.org.uk Also Hedgelaying, 2 days location to be arranged
Sunday 28th
Work Day - controlling Hazel scrub Run by Plantlife and based near Sheldon, Details from: 01722 342734, joe.costley@plantlife.org.uk
Thursday 2nd December
Winter Tree ID BTCV East Cornwall. More details from sw-training@btcv.org.uk,
Saturday 4th
Hedgelaying, Weekend course (2 days) by BTCV Avon. Contact: 0117 9298488, z.richards@btcv.org.uk,
Monday 6th
Introduction to Coppicing, In Cumbria by BTCV NW, to book: 01772 204651, nw-training@btcv.org.uk
Basic chainsaw, week long (5 days) by Welsh College of Horticulture details as above
Sunday 12th
Hedgelaying, At Randalls Farm by The Wildlife Trusts, Beds, 01604 405285, vera.herman@wildlifebcnp.org,
Work Day - clear scrub (+mince pies & bonfire) Run by Plantlife and based at Banstead. Details from: 01722 342746, tim.wilkins@plantlife.org.uk
Monday 13th
Chainsaw - climber, week long (5 days) by Welsh College of Horticulture details as above
Sunday 23rd January 2005
Work Day - scrub clearing, Run by Plantlife and based near Sheldon as above
Wednesday 2nd February
Working with Living Willow Workshop, 2 days at and by The Bishops Wood Centre, Worcester 01299 250513, courses@bishopswoodcentre.org.uk
Friday 18th
Practical hedgelaying & coppicing, by Shared Earth Trust at Denmark Farm. Details from: 01970 493358, set@denmark-farm.freeserve.co.uk
The Forest Education Initiative (FEI) operates throughout Great Britain and was conceived in 1992, with the aim to ‘increase young people’s understanding of the local and global importance of trees, woodlands, forest environments and the wood processing industries’. FEI comprises a partnership of BTCV, Field Studies Council, Forest Industries Development Council, Forestry Commission, Groundwork, Tree Council, Timber Trade Federation and Woodland Trust.

The practical work of FEI is achieved through local cluster groups, who initiate and deliver local projects such as:

These groups bring together local representatives from industry, forestry, education, community groups and environmental organisations to offer local services to schools. Small grants are available.

Further information at our website www.foresteducation.org.uk for details of your nearest FEI group, Forest Schools (including training) and free learning resources.

A well maintained hedge by Pete Turner
Not the most inspiring of topics for many, but a great deal can be achieved by good hedgerow management.
The traditional way of managing and maintaining a hedge was through laying it, the process of cutting the hedging plant at the base to such an extent that the plant, or pleacher, can be laid down, without severing it totally from the root stock. The hedge will grow back vertically from the laid limb and provide a thick and robust boundary.
Right, lesson over, as I want to persuade you that traditional land management skills, and specifically hedgelaying, support biodiversity whilst also maintaining and restoring our landscapes.
There's a practical reason for all land management techniques and hedgelaying is no exception. A strong hedge will act as a very effective method of keeping livestock where you want them. Specific hedgelaying styles have been developed around the country based on the type of farming that is common there. Where there is cattle farming, then the hedges tend to be double staked and very tough. In other areas, they are there to protect field from the elements and are on the top of an earth bank.
But the great treat and added bonus that a hedge can provide, is the shelter it will give to a diverse array of wildlife, both flora and fauna. A well maintained hedge will provide shelter for birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibia and wealth of invertebrates. The shelter at the base of the hedge will also create a microclimate in which tender plants will be able to establish and flourish. And as a secure corridor, the hedge will provide cover for animals to travel throughout the countryside. These are all positive aspects of a well maintained and traditionally laid hedge, but one major aspect for me is the impact on the landscape. A healthy, laid hedge will last decades longer than a post and wire fence and provide true visual interest in the landscape. The hedging plants will outlive hedges that are thrashed. Thrashing is a pet hate of mine as it means the base of the plant grows older and thicker without the rest of the plant to support the amount of sap being drawn up from the soil or generating enough energy to sustain the plant in the long term. Although it is quicker and cheaper than laying, thrashing is carried out repeatedly, each time battling with the hedge and how it wants to grow. A hedge that is thrashed and managed only at its extremities will collect more detritus at its base, stifling the plant and increasing the chances that the plant will become weakened by infection, weakening the base and meaning that you have to reinforce your boundary with a man made fence. Another sorry sight is an old hedge line that has become redundant due to post and wire. Tall lanky specimens that look out of place in the middle of open countryside. With a bit of time and effort, these could be laid to add to the landscape and create an environment that supports biodiversity.
The landscape we love is often a heavily managed landscape, farmed and hunted for centuries. The wildlife we enjoy survives best in traditionally managed countryside, where it has been thriving since the land began to be managed. By supporting and learning traditional skills, such as hedgelaying, we can maintain the landscape and support the biodiversity that thrives in well-managed countryside and retaining traditional skills can teach a lot about working with our environment rather than beating it into submission.
So keep you eye on those hedge lines, try to avoid thrashing them and if you see one of those redundant, lanky hedges, lay it and watch it regenerate to create a new ecosystem.
Pete Turner is a professional hedgelayer and dry stone waller who operates www.hedgelayer.com. Pete graduated from Aberystwyth University with an Honours degree in Zoology and has since worked with a large number of public agencies as well as private land owners. Pete can be contacted on 07855 831181.
Native Tree Shop at www.nativetreeshop.com offers four native trees or shrubs for £9.99 including post and packing. Details of how to dedicate a recently planted tree can be can be found at www.woodland-trust.org.uk/christmas or for the same package without the Christmas information, http://www.woodland-trust.org.uk/dedicateatree/
 
To provide customers with a useful reference tool for specifying trees, Coles Nurseries have produced three factsheets. > To receive a set of free factsheets and our new 2004/2005 catalogue, please call 0116 2412115 or email info@colesnurseries.co.uk enclosing your full address and contact details or click on www.colesnurseries.co.uk and go to "News".

 

Classified - Directory Listings.
 
Bowhayes Farm
Fast Growing Shelter. Willows & Poplars, 6-8 feet of growth per year. Tel: 01404 812229, Web: www.bowehayesfarm.co.uk
 
Bunce (Ashbury) Ltd
Two wheeled tractors and mowers with many attachments available. Tel: 01793 710212, Email: andrewbunce@bunce.co.uk, Web: www.buyersguide.co.uk/document/bunce
 
CS Timber Services
Woodland Management Contractor. Forestry and woodland management specialists with small scale machinery. Tel: 07811 786294, Email: chris_sheppard@btinternet.com
 
Farm Forestry Co Ltd.
Tree guards & tree planting accessories and forest & hedge plants. Spiral guards. Trees, hedging Plants. Planting Accessories one stop shop. Tel:01588 650 496, Email: sales@farmforestry.co.uk, Web: www.farmforestry.co.uk
  
Lazy Dog Tool Co Ltd
Lazy Dog, Lazy Chisel Hoe, Lazy Weedhook. Best tools for easy, lazy, weed removal. Tel:01751 417351, Web: www.lazydogtoolco.co.uk
 
Severnside Safety Supplies Limited.
Safety equipment. Chainsaw boots trousers helmets gloves workwear. Corporate clothing. Waterproofs. Signs. Tel: 01242 525811, Email: sales@sevsafe.co.uk, Web: www.sevsafe.co.uk
 
Silky Fox
Pruning Saws The World's finest pruning saws. Tel: 01981 590224, Web: www.silkyfox.co.uk
 
Technorton Ltd
Heiss Earth Auger. One man post hole borer for fencing and planting. Tel: 01584 872689, Email: sales@technorton.co.uk, Web: www.technorton.co.uk
 
Woodland Heritage
Registered charity 1041611. Tel: 01428 652159, Email: woodland.heritage@talk21.com, Web: www.woodlandheritage.org.uk

 
Tree For All Weekend.

18-23 November 2004

The first 700 trees planted as part of the Tree For All campaign were planted on 23 September by 400 pupils from 12 primary schools on the Ragley Estate in Warwickshire.
Tree For All is the prelude to the Tree Council's National Tree Week, when thousands of adults and children will take part in tree planting activities across the country. Tree For All is a new kind of conservation movement. Instead of doom and gloom, blame or shame for what has been lost the campaign will give people of all ages, and especially children, many simple, enjoyable and practical ways to get involved and make a difference.
Clive Anderson, President of the Woodland Trust, says, "Planting a tree is always an optimistic act. At the time of putting the little acorn or the spindly sapling into the ground, the great oak has to be imagined, many years before it will occupy its place in the real world. How much more optimistic is it to plant 12 million trees? One for every child in the country is a spectacular contribution to Britain's landscape and ecology. Involving at least one million children in the planting process is equally impressive and equally important. The aim of this campaign is to give every child a chance to plant a tree, and to give everywhere a tree a chance to grow."
Woods are under threat from climate change, development and sheer indifference. Today's lifestyle means that children grow up with little connection with their natural environment. Urgent action is needed to inspire our children to become the future guardians of their natural environment, this campaign is that call for action. We know that planting a tree is a powerful act providing a vital link to nature helping to develop a better understanding of environmental issues and can help to ensure that the next generation grows up ready to act to protect the future of their natural world. Andy Beer of the Woodland Trust says, " Nowadays children are losing touch with nature, in many cases because they don't get the chance to go outside and enjoy it. Action is needed now to inspire children with a love of nature. The UK is one of the least wooded parts of Europe so every simple act of planting trees can make a difference. The more people who can be enthused with love and respect for the natural world, the greater the hope for the future of the planet."
By making a wood bigger you do much more for wildlife than simply create a new habitat, you bolster and protect what's already there. Some Tree For All planting sites will be located to buffer or extend existing ancient woodland, our richest habitat for wildlife, including more rare and threatened species than any other UK habitat. The Woodland Trust is working with communities, partner organisations, schools and individuals to involve children in planting trees and creating accessible green space in their neighbourhoods.
For more information about the Tree For All campaign please visit the website: www.treeforall.org.uk
SYLVA.past.present.future. Marianne Birkby 24th Nov to 12th Dec The Green Room, Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal. Exhibition of paintings celebrating veteran trees, their relationship with people and diversity of wildlife. Unusual, interesting and 'commonplace' trees including the Rusland Beeches still thriving 8 years after the successful campaign to prevent clearfelling. Further details call: 015395 63671.
  
Plant a tree at Foxton Locks
Sunday 5 December 11am-3pm Family event at Foxton Locks, Foxton near Market Harborough
Plant some trees and see a pole lathe at work; take a guided walk to find out how the locks and inclined plane worked. Enquiries: 01908 302500
     
Tameside’s Countryside Rangers are offering the following events:
27 & 28/11/04: Woodland Revitalisation. Mossley
28/11/04: Tree Day. Ashton- under- Lyne
28/11/04: Tree Identification Walk. Ashton- under- Lyne
4& 5/12/04: Wood’ You Help Haughton Dale Local Nature Reserve. Hyde .
Contact Telephone 0161 330 9613.
  
Devon Branch of International Tree Foundation, a charity that plants trees worldwide, will be planting more trees at Westpoint Showground, near Exeter, on Monday 29th November and Monday 1st December, to improve the environment and encourage wildlife. Any help will be very welcome. abranney@freenet.co.uk
     
The Burngreave Community Forestry Project invite you to their One World: Talking Trees Event to plant specimen trees native to the diverse cultures and countries represented in Burngreave on Saturday 27th November, 10.30am at Abbeyfield Park, Burngreave, Sheffield. For further information contact Richard Gill, Community Tree Officer, Tel:01142734190, e-mail: richard.gill@sheffield.gov.uk
  
Treemendous Trees in Greenwich Park Saturday 4th December. Drop in between 11am - 1pm to join Wildlife for All in a FREE family tree dressing activity celebrating National Tree Week. Location signed from Blackheath Gate. Phone Wildlife for All on 020 7935 7430 or email wildlifeforall@royalparks.gsi.gov.uk for more Information.
     
Tree Dressing Day 5th December 2004 12-3pm - Family Event and Childrens activities inc Entertainment from the Green Man and workshops on pagan symbolism. Chainsaw carving. Artists workshops, Live music and Guided Tree Identification walk, decorate the trees in the park. Gillingham Park run by Groundwork Medway Swale 01634 855166
  
Stepping Stones Countryside Management Project’s TreeFest event at Brocks Hill Country Park, Oadby. Sunday 28th of November help celebrate the remarkable and beautiful world of trees and woodlands. More information please contact Andy Jackson, Project Officer, Stepping Stones Countryside Management Project on 0116 265 7221 or James Gamble at Brocks Hill Country Park on 0116 271 4514.
     
Sunday 5 December 2004
It's National Tree Week so come along and help plant more trees and shrubs at Shrewsbury's newest Community Woodland. Meet at Greenfields Community Woodland, Greenfields Recreation Ground, off Falstaff Street, Shrewsbury, anytime between 10am and 1pm.
More information from Shrewsbury Countryside Unit. 01743 359199.
  
Wish upon a star - 28-11-04 Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park, Southern Grove E3. Join us to celebrate National tree week, write a wish upon a star to dress our large Horse Chestnut Tree. Tel: 07904 186 981 or ken@mudchute.org
     
'Wild Places-Wildlife-Wild Times' Second Nature, Education Ranger led woodland visits in Bath, Bristol and Somerset. A vast range of curriculum relevant experiences to learn about nature and wildlife. All age ranges and abilities catered for. Special events for 'National Tree Week', and in all School holidays. Ms.Nicky Fish 01225 429138 nicky@secondnature.org.uk www.secondnature.org.uk
  
"To celebrate the Tree Council's National Tree Week, Kent Wildlife Trust is holding a 'Tree Dressing Spectacular' on Sunday, December 5th at its Tyland Barn Visitor Centre near Maidstone. Families are invited to make special animal-friendly decorations to hang on trees around the nature reserve. The event is free." 01622 662012
     
"National Tree Week in Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland (Friday 26 November to 5 December 2004). Frantic week of activities that includes tree planting, guided walks and tree talks. For further information contact Stephen Daye Tel: 02893358000 or e-mail inbloom@carrickfergus.org or visit the Councils web site www.carrickfergus.org"
  
Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust is a conservation charity dedicated to the protection of Torbay's wildlife, heritage, coast and countryside. As part of National Tree week, the Trust is holding a Tree Planting day in Occombe Woods, Paignton on Sunday 28 November from 10.30am. For further details, call 01803 606035 or visit www.countryside-trust.org.uk.
     
    A meeting with Mr Ted Green MBE. English Nature's Consultant to the Crown Estate Windsor on Ancient Trees our UK's Heritage 7.30 pm 27th November 2004 at the Memorial Centre Gerrards Cross. Entry will be free can contribute to a voluntary collection, profits from which will go to Conservation Charities. Enquiries 01753 886010
     
We hope you've enjoyed reading this first CJS Weekly Special Edition Supplement.

We intend to publish four Special Editions each year, one for each season! (see below) Please visit the website for more details. If there is an area you'd like us to cover please contact us and we'll consider it. CJS.

 
To help celebrate National Tree Week, join Croome Park's Warden as he walks around the park and focuses on the trees - both new and old. £5 each including admission to the park, the walk starts at 1pm from reception and booking is advised. 01905 371006 Severn Stoke

 

 Wherever you see this icon against an advert it mean that the advertiser is a member of the Tree Council. The Tree Council is a made up of and controlled by these member organisations

Working through and on behalf of its member organisations, the Tree Council aims to create an awareness of the value of trees and of the need for more trees and their better management. It uses every opportunity to inform people about trees, to alert them to national tree problems and to seek solutions.

 

 
The Plantlife Juniper Survey

Help to record where Britain's Juniper bushes grow. One of our most threatened species, juniper supports a range of wildlife and its terminal decline has wide reaching impacts. Survey any time of year. Found throughout northern Britain (N Wales, Cumbria, Northumberland and Scotland). Record the location & grid reference. Count the number of individual plants. Indicate the age and health according to plant size and shape. Record the habitat, etc. Details and online survey forms at www.plantlife.org.uk or from: Juniper Survey, Plantlife Scotland, Balallan House, 24 Allan Park, Stirling FK8 2QG

Deadline: 1 October 2005.

CJS Weekly Special Edition Supplements in 2005
When What Tie In  
February Seasonal Work  
May Horticulture RHS Chelsea Flower Show
August Field Sports "Glorious Twelfth"
November Trees & Hedges in association with The Tree Council for National Tree Week.

Contact us for more details and exact deadlines.

This Edition will also appear in full on the CJS website as part of the CJS Weekly section. Future special editions will also appear there so if for any reason you're not receiving a copy of the Weekly when a Special is being published you can view (and print) the copies online.

From CJS Giggles - a couple of jokes to liven up events during National Tree Week!
I once went for a job with a forestry contractor. After the initial interview, the candidates were lead outside into an arboretum for some tree recognition skills.
"What's that tree there?" asked the interviewer. "A Larch" called one of the candidates.
"And what's that one?" The interviewer asked a second time. "A beech" replied the candidates.
"And what sort of tree is that" asked the interviewer a third time. "An oak" was the general response.
"Now for the advanced test." announced the interviewer, pointing. "That tree over there, can you tell me which is the front and which is the back?"
All we candidates walked towards the large specimen and gave it good looking over, up and down and all around it we walked.
Returning to the interviewer, some moments later than my fellow candidates, I announced: "This is the front and the other side is the back."
"How did you come to that conclusion" I was asked. You go round the back of a tree to have a pee!"
What do you do if a big tree is about to fall on your head?
Cross your ankles and then it will be easier to unscrew you out of the ground afterwards...
 
The CJS team would like to thank everyone who has contributed adverts, articles and information for this our first Special Edition. An extra "thank you" goes to the Tree Council for their support and assistance.

We hope this Special Edition is a success stimulating lots of interest in and generally promoting all things tree and hedge related. We look forward to working together with you all in the future.

Details believed correct but given without prejudice. A4 side this Special Edition: 8