Help save Devon’s treescape by getting involved in project

Published: 29 July 2021

People are being encouraged to help save Devon’s treescapes by identifying notable trees in their neighbourhood and recording them on a simple web-based app.

It’s all part of the Devon Wildlife Trust’s Saving Devon’s Treescapes, which aims to protect the county’s stunning habitats which are so crucial to wildlife.

Unfortunately Devon’s treescapes are under threat from many things including Ash Dieback; which is estimated to kill at least 90% of the county’s ash trees in the coming years.

This will affect everyone, but everyone can be part of the solution. An app has been launched to record details of notable trees nearby.

Rosie Cotgreave, of Saving Devon’s Treescapes, said: “Notable trees are usually mature trees which may stand out in your local environment because they are large in comparison with other trees around them.

“With everyone recording the Notable trees local to them we’ll be able to build up a picture of the health of Devon’s Treescapes. We’re focusing on all trees, but we also want to keep a close eye on any ash trees that might be showing signs of resistance to help the vital ongoing research into Ash Dieback.

To record details of notable trees, just go online to the web-based app: https://www.devontreescapes.com/

People are asked to only record trees where they have legal access to the land and not to go onto private land without permission. People can record trees whilst on a walk using their phone, or when they get back home on the website using their computer.

People are advised to be careful when recording trees. If a tree looks like it is unsafe or if it has dead branches or showing signs of disease such as Ash Dieback, then don't get too close to the tree.

Head to the website at https://www.devontreescapes.com/ to get started and record your first tree.