LANDOWNERS and farmers keen to see more trees on their land can still apply for a South of Scotland Tree Planting Grant.
It is open to any organisations or individuals who are keen to plant more native trees that will enhance the landscape and biodiversity of the area, whilst also contributing to public amenity.
Iain Laidlaw, from Scottish Forestry in South Scotland, said: “Last year we were very successful and supported around 123 separate applications and managed to get over 20,500 new trees in the ground on a variety of great projects.
“Combined with all the partners, this year we have a budget of around £165,000 to support about 180 small scale planting projects and we hope to plant around 30,000 trees in total.
“Winter is the best time of year for planting trees and we’re keen to get more applications in soon before the ground dries out.”
Field margin trees, individual parkland trees and small copses of less than 0.25 hectares are all encouraged. Up to £1000 per application is available to cover material costs associated with the planting.
All Dumfries and Galloway applications are initially handled by the Galloway Glens Team and spokesman Jonathan Barrett said: “If you are looking to plant some native trees this winter, do get in touch to apply for a grant of up to £1000 to cover costs. Recent applicants have varied from farmers and other landowners, through to schools and community groups.”
The South of Scotland Tree Planting Grant is supported through a partnership of Woodland Trust Scotland, Dumfries & Galloway Council, Tweed Forum, Borders Forest Trust, Scottish Borders Council, Nature Restoration Fund, Galloway Glens LP, Scottish Forestry and private donations.
Contact Jonathan, pictured, at [email protected] or call 07469 571806.
