The Mersey Forest are working with rangers at Dunham Massey to plant trees and hedgerows across the estate to capture carbon and create diverse habitats for nature to thrive.
Part of the National Trust’s Green Recovery Challenge Fund project, new woodlands and hedgerows have started to be planted at Stamford Farm on the estate, helping to increase biodiversity by connecting two woodland areas.
The Mersey Forest’s woodland advisor has worked with the local National Trust ranger and tenant farmer to design a mixed broadleaf woodland plus new species rich hedgerows on the site. Planting started in January 2022 with National Trust volunteers and rangers helping to get the trees in the ground.”
“These fantastic new habitats will compliment Stamford Farm’s older hedgerows and veteran trees, shelter livestock, improve soil and water quality as well as breed, feed and house a variety of insect life.”
– Natalie Pownall, Area Ranger for the NAtional Trust
Summary of the project
Natalie Pownall, Area Ranger for the National Trust, said: “Dunham Massey National Trust are pleased to be working with the Mersey Forest as part of our Green Recovery Challenge Fund Project to create new and improved habitats for wildlife and people.
“New woodlands and hedgerows will be planted on Stamford Farm, supported by our National Trust tenant farmer, to help capture carbon and create thriving species rich green corridors better connecting existing wildlife habitats.
“New stock proof fencing and recycled tree guards will be installed to ensure the new trees are protected against browsing livestock and animals.
“These fantastic new habitats will compliment Stamford Farm’s older hedgerows and veteran trees, shelter livestock, improve soil and water quality as well as breed, feed and house a variety of insect life such as pollinators which are so important to us and wildlife. What’s not to like?!”
In total 0.47 hectares of woodland has been created at this site, with 473 trees planted. Alongside this, 0.42 hectares of low-density parkland style planting has been added and a 1,150 metre hedgerow, incorporating 5,750 trees and shrubs.
National Trust volunteers and rangers on planting day
Project impact
Natural flood management and water quality: The newly planted trees will help to slow the flow of rain water into the River Bollin on the farm and also help prevent unwanted runoff from roads and fields reaching the river.
Public access and management: One public footpath runs through the farm and will have views to multiple new hedgerows.
Enhancing wildlife: The new woodland and hedgerows will create a thriving species rich green corridor helping to connect existing wildlife habitats.
Contribution to Net Zero: The carbon captured in the woodland area on this site will be approximately 120 tonnes over 100 years.
Engagement, health and wellbeing: 11 National Trust volunteers have been involved in this project, helping to prepare the land and plant the trees on site.
Employment and skills: The volunteers involved in this project are getting practical, hands on experience, helping them to connect with nature whilst gaining valuable green skills that could be useful in future work.
Stamford Farm, Dunham Massey, Cheshire East – Partners
