Scouts get their hands dirty to combat climate change

A group of Dorset scouts and volunteers have planted 300 trees to help tackle climate change.

In total, a diverse range of 10 native tree species have been planted at Bere Marsh Farm, near Shillingstone thanks to scouts from Blandford.

Two troops from the Blandford Scout Group were involved in planting 120 trees at the farm which is owned by the Countryside Regeneration Trust.

The national charity aims to promote nature-friendly farming to help reverse the biodiversity decline and combat climate change.

The scouts took part in an educational session about the charity and the ecological benefits of hedgerows before getting hands-on with the planting and mulching process.

Jonathan Bowell, of Blandford Scout Group, said: “Personally, I believe that one of the most important things we can do with our young people is expose them to nature and wildlife.

“If they are exposed, then they have a chance to fall in love with it and be the future conservation champions. Scouting promotes the great outdoors through activities, events and badges.

“I thought the opportunity to get our young people volunteering and engaging locally with nature was too good to miss.

“They enjoyed talking about the conservation projects including the Barn Owl Barn. They then all loved the opportunity to look at the owl pellets and get hands on with that as well.”

The remaining trees were planted by the farms dedicated group of regular volunteers, who meet every Friday to support the farm’s environmental initiatives.

The trees were donated by the Woodland Trust and included a selection of native hedgerow species such as hawthorn, blackthorn, and hazel, as well as year-round colour trees like wild cherry and rowan, alongside some berry-bearing varieties.

The tree planting initiative is part of the Great Big Dorset Hedge project, a long-term campaign aimed at restoring and extending hedgerows throughout Dorset.

Hannah Bosence, estate manager at Bere Marsh Farm, said: “It’s crucial for the health of our environment that we ensure our hedgerows are well-maintained.

“Hedgerows provide a vital habitat for wildlife and play an important role in protecting against the effects of climate change.

“They not only support biodiversity but also provide shelter, food, and habitats for a variety of species, including small mammals, insects, and birds.”

Hannah also expressed her delight at seeing the scouts engaging with the farm’s environmental work.

She added: “It was wonderful to see the scouts so excited and eager to learn about protecting the environment while getting their hands dirty. Their enthusiasm was truly inspiring.”