Ashings Lane Nature Reserve, 6th December 2009
Our contribution to creating a new woodland for
Nettleham Woodland Trust. Nine of us turned out armed with spades to add
another few hundred plants to the woodland. The night's heavy rain had
turned the already muddy field into a water soaked quagmire, but we waded
through to seek out the colour coded canes to plant our trees. The day
before, 120 volunteers had turned out to plant 2566 trees in 1 hours as part
of the BBC Breathing spaces '
Tree
O'clock' world record attempt. There were still plenty to plant
though, so we spread out in small groups to add to the future woodland.
The weather improved and the sun came out, albeit with a strong wind to keep
things cool. The organiser gallantly made us tea on a stove while we
sheltered
under the gazebo (so no brew kit needed) and St Johns Ambulance were on
hand, sitting cozy in their van (so no first aid kit needed!). Their first
aid skills were not required, but we came close when the gazebo lost its
battle with the wind as we had lunch, narrowly missing us and the van!
Planting continued until the light began to fade. Not sure how many we
planted, but there were plenty more Dog wood, Dog rose, Gelder rose, Holly
and Wayfaring tree in the ground to accompany the Oak, Silver Birch, Wild
Cheery, Hazel, Lime, Ash, Field maple and Crab apples already planted.
Should look amazing in 20 years time!
Julian
