The Welsh Government and Coed Cadw, the Woodland Trust in Wales, donated 5,000 trees in the first part of the My Tree Our Forest initiative in March. Now, a further 295,000 trees will be available on a first-come, first-served basis from Saturday 19 November to Monday 19 December, with supply monitoring in case they sell out. They can be collected from over 50 locations across Wales. Find the nearest hub on the map below: A total of 10 different types of trees will be available: Hazel, Rowan, Hawthorn, Silver Birch, Crab Apple, Sessile Oak, Dogwood, Dog Rose, Field Maple, Elder. Those unable to collect a tree can post a tree from Monday – or plant a tree on their behalf – with details of how to choose one of two options available on the Coed Cadw website. Climate Change Minister Julie James said: “Trees are a lifeline for us and all the amazing life they support. Where would our birds, insects and animals be without them? Where would we be without them? “I want everyone in Wales to visit our website to find their nearest gift tree hub and collect your free broadleaf from tomorrow.” He said “wonderful volunteers” would be able to provide expert advice to help people “choose the right tree for your space and situation”. “As COP27 draws to a close in Egypt, the continued effort of the Wales Team to address climate and nature emergencies is essential,” he said. Image: Welsh Deputy Minister for Climate Change Lee Waters gives a sapling to a family during the first part of the program in March “By growing a beautiful tree in your own backyard, you can start your contribution and help grow a healthy and happy Wales for us and our future generations to benefit from.” Those behind the project point out that in addition to removing carbon from the air and improving mental health, broadleaf trees provide shelter for birds and wildlife. Natalie Buttriss, Director of Coed Cadw, said: “Trees have always offered simple and cost-effective solutions to the challenges we all face and through the My Tree Our Forest initiative, we hope to inspire people from all backgrounds, regions and walks of life . get involved and as a result feel more connected to the multiple benefits that trees can provide”
