Why do we need trees?With so many people living in towns and cities, we might think that trees only have a role in the countryside where they can support biodiversity, and when grown commercially can provide fuel and timber. Trees also have a vital role in the urban environment. Not only do they improve the view, but they can help to reduce the impact of rainstorms, slow down wind speeds and even reduce noise levels. It's generally accepted that trees - wherever they're grown - can have a positive impact on the climate-changing phenomenon of global warming. Volunteering Two projects featured in 'The Trees that made Britain' - Trees for Cities and Trees for Life - run schemes where volunteers can plant and nurture trees. In programme six, Tony and Jon joined Trees for Life volunteers in planting Scots pine saplings as part of a long-term project that aims to regenerate and restore the ancient woodlands of the Caledonian Forest in Scotland. Trees for Cities, featured in programme eight, not only organises planting events but also an annual Tree-athlon to raise funds for inner city planting projects. Visit The Tree Council, The Woodland Trust and BTCV websites for information about other ways to get involved. Tree WardensIf you would like to do more than plant the occasional tree, then why not become a volunteer Tree Warden? The Tree Council's Tree Warden Scheme gives individuals the opportunity to champion their local trees and woods, playing an active role in protecting and improving them. Launched in 1990, the scheme works with local authorities, voluntary organisations, parish councils and local partnerships to set up and develop Tree Warden Networks. Tree Wardens can take part in and organise a wide range of activities, including schools projects and guided tree walks. Many Tree Wardens help local farmers to lay hedges or tag hedge trees as part of the Tree Council’s Hedge Tree campaign. One of the campaign's aims is to protect young hedge saplings from being cut down by mechanical hedge-cutters by making them more visible with brightly-coloured tags. Education and careersYou can find out how Tony and Jon became arboriculture experts in their biographies, but if you’re interested in a career in arboriculture, simple tree management or just need to know how to prune your trees and shrubs at home, there are many of courses available. The following organisations provide information about arboriculture and horticulture courses, or you can contact your local college to see what courses are available:
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