The Community Forest Project at Buckland Abbey

‘Bigger, better and more joined up’ is our mantra, and since 2015, Buckland Abbey has been working to meet the aims of the National Trust’s Land, Outdoors and Nature strategy; creating and restoring priority habitats, ensuring nature recovery and improving biodiversity, carbon sequestration and natural flood management.

We have explored our historic environment and natural heritage aiming to restore some historical features to the landscape, such as an orchard thought to be one of the first of its kind in Devon.

We’ll be planting over 30,000 trees including 365 fruit and nut trees to bring a medieval landscape to life.

What’s being planted?

A variety of broadleaved trees such as sessile oak, elm, blackthorn, birch, rowan and wild cherry will be planted in the woodland areas, whilst heritage fruit trees along with hazel and cobnuts will feature in the orchards.

However, it’s not all about trees. You may have heard the shocking statistic that 97% of Britain’s wildflower meadows have been lost since the 1930’s. In partnership with Devon Wildlife Trust, we have created a green hay donor site to assist with the regeneration of lowland meadows, which we’ll combine with wood meadow to increase habitat connectivity.

What are the other benefits of this project?

Aside from the positive climate impact of introducing more trees and plants, the project will have several other valuable outcomes, including:

• Habitat creation – from lichens to small mammals, insects and birds.
• Foraging opportunities, thanks to the interspersal of fruiting trees with broadleaved varieties.
• Connectivity – ‘hedgerow highways’ are vital for creatures such as bats, 11 species of which can be found living at Buckland.
• Slowing the flow of water across the estate reduces the risk of flooding and soil erosion.
• Creation of shade for wildlife, livestock and humans.
• Opportunities for people to connect with nature through improved access, community events and volunteer roles.

How can I get involved?

Later in the year, look out for days where visitors will have the opportunity to come along and join the Ranger team in planting some of the trees. These will be advertised on the events page and social media. We have also created new volunteer roles to support the project on Tuesdays and the first Saturday of each month – for further information, take a look at the web page here or call us on 01822 853607.

We can all play our part to help to create new habitats and take climate action. Whether it’s a window box or a bird box, a small wildlife pond or bug hotel, why not see where you could make some space for nature around your garden.