Planting Trees in Huddersfield

The Huddersfield Community Involvement Team has been supporting the Colne Valley Greenway around Colnebridge for about two years now. In November 2009 and March 2010, we had our 10th and 11th sessions. The activity focuses on thinning out low environmental value birch, alder and pine trees by the path to allow light to reach the woodland floor. This is hard work but the volunteers have learnt some valuable tree felling skills! Whilst this destruction can be fun, the volunteers have also been enjoying replanting the same areas. In two hours last November, after some early morning snow, the group of 11, guided by Environmental Alliance organiser Beth Allcock, planted over 100 hazel, oak and hawthorn trees and 20 or more holly bushes.

In March, more hazel trees and holly bushes were planted by an enthusiastic group of 16. The aim is that this will transform the woodland into a valuable habitat for birds, mammals and insects that will have a lasting positive effect on the local environment. We also know that many of our employees and their families already use the Greenway for recreation and getting to work on foot or by bike.

The story does not end here. This is just a short section of a two kilometre stretch of path that Kirklees Council have allowed us to be responsible for, so there is plenty more to do! Thanks to all the people who have taken part over the last 2 years and we look forward to you and many more coming along to help in 2010. A full list of dates for the rest of the year will be published shortly; the sessions usually run on a Saturday morning. In the meantime, to see what we have achieved, Huddersfield locals can take a walk or bike ride down the path from Leeds Road (near the 'Pit Stop') to Colnebridge.