THERE has been a hive of activity at Lower Chew Forest where the end of planting season is in sight.

The plans for the 422 acre site near Compton Dando involve creating a mosaic of habitats - wildflower meadows, open woodland pasture and wetlands alongside denser woodland. Of the target 75,000 trees to plant this winter, there are around 60,000 now in the ground. The finish line is very much in sight!

This has been made possible by heroic volunteers from Avon Needs Trees, CPRE and Forest of Avon, who have been out in all the mixed weather this winter has thrown at us.

They are always on the lookout for more help if you’d like to have a go. Just visit the Avon Needs Trees website avonneedstrees.org.uk

Walnut trees are currently being planted near the farmhouse, which will produce a crop, as well as hedgerow and pockets of scrub, with all the benefits to biodiversity they bring. To the west of Hunstrete Lane, denser areas of woodland are being planted that will join up existing pockets of woodland on the site, and with the adjoining Lord’s Wood.

Also on the Western block, the first trees of Echo Wood have gone in the ground. The artwork is a collaboration with internationally acclaimed local artist Luke Jerram, where 365 trees are being planted in a swirling formation with rows of blossom and colour at varying points of the year. It will be a place for local communities to gather and reflect.

The initial idea of Echo Wood came about when Luke read about Avon Needs Trees’ plans to create the South West largest new woodland in a generation, Lower Chew Forest.

Artist Luke previously said: “It’s amazing to have the opportunity to create an artwork that will take decades to fully form, but will last for hundreds of years and bring joy to generations of visitors.”

The trees planted for the artwork will grow alongside an expansive and beautiful new forest, providing refuge for wildlife and stand as a powerful symbol in the fight against climate change.

The first trees were planted by a group from Marksbury Primary School and the local community have been invited to take part in other planting days and leave their mark on an artwork that will be around for generations to come.

Of the £500,000 needed to get the trees of Lower Chew Forest in the ground by the end of this winter, there is around £50,000 left to raise - so close but with a lot of work still to do.

Trees of Echo Wood are available to sponsor, with different species available including bird cherry, crabapple and 12 mighty oak. Many supporters are choosing to dedicate their trees to families and loved ones who will be to visit the wood for decades or centuries to come!

To find out more about sponsoring a tree at Echo Wood visit www.echo-wood.co.uk

Written by Tom Le Fanu, head of engagement, communications and fundraising at Avon Needs Trees.