Keep planting this winter – every tree counts

Tree planting season is in full swing across North Lincolnshire, and the message is simple: keep planting.

With more than 185,000 trees already in the ground, we’re closing in fast on our ambitious 250,000-tree target.

Work is continuing right across the area, with teams planting new woodlands, shelterbelts and wildlife corridors in partnership with Humber Forest, the Woodland Trust and the Forestry Commission, including sites such as Phoenix Parkway Local Nature Reserve in Scunthorpe.

North Lincolnshire Council leader Rob Waltham said: “Access to green spaces matters to people, and this programme is about making sure communities across North Lincolnshire can enjoy them now and in the future.

“Planting trees helps create places where families can spend time outdoors, where neighbourhoods feel greener and healthier, and where towns and villages are better places to live.

“By keeping up the momentum this winter, we’re continuing to deliver something residents have told us they value.”

Cllr David Rose, cabinet member for environment, added: “Tree planting is one of the most practical ways we can protect and enhance our natural environment for future generations.

“The trees going into the ground this winter will support wildlife, improve biodiversity and help our communities adapt to a changing climate for decades to come.

“Every tree planted now is an investment in a healthier, more resilient North Lincolnshire for those who come after us.”

Winter is the ideal time to plant, and there are still plenty of opportunities for residents, volunteers, schools and landowners to help push us over the line.

That could mean joining a local planting session, offering land for new trees or hedgerows, or helping care for young trees so they establish and thrive. Even small actions make a big difference.

If you’ve chosen a rooted Christmas tree this year, don’t let it go to waste once the festivities are over. Planting it in your garden or a suitable space is a simple way to give it a second life – and it still counts towards the total.

Anyone who plants a tree this winter is encouraged to log it on the council’s online tree counter, whether it’s one tree or hundreds.

If you’d like to volunteer, help with aftercare or discuss land that may be suitable for planting, email woodland@northlincs.gov.uk