A significant advancement has been made in the restoration of Scotland’s native ancient woodlands and temperate rainforest. A collaborative initiative between Trees for Life and Woodland Trust Scotland has successfully collected over two million rare native tree seeds in its first year.
Since last August, a dedicated team of more than 80 volunteers has collected 2.2 million seeds. It has far surpassed the initial target of 500,000 trees. These seeds will facilitate the growth of 1.5 million trees for rewilding efforts across Scotland. It focuses on rare tree species from Scotland’s remaining ancient woodlands and west coast temperate rainforests.
Preserving Genetic Heritage
The project aims to preserve the unique genetics of these tree species, some of which date back to the end of the last Ice Age. Located often in remote areas, these trees represent a vital part of Scotland’s natural heritage. The initiative has successfully created a network of volunteer seed collectors. Thus, enhancing access to local woods and traditional ecological knowledge.
“The success of this project is a symbol of hope for the future. By preserving genetically precious and rare species, we can restore native ancient woodland and rainforest, providing homes for a variety of wildlife,” said Roz Birch, the Tree Seed Collection Project’s Volunteer Coordinator.
Diverse Species and Wide Impact
The expanding team of volunteers has enabled the project to source seeds from a variety of rare species, including aspen and juniper. It also addresses Scotland’s shortage of other native trees with traceable local provenance. After collection, the seeds undergo processing and testing before being sent to nurseries for sowing and growing. The young trees will be available for planting across Scotland this autumn. Thus, we are supporting Woodland Trust Scotland projects that are aimed at restoring Scotland’s rainforest and Caledonian pinewoods.
The project will also support the Trusts’ Croft Woodland and MOREwoods schemes. As it assists crofters, smallholders, and common grazing associations in managing and planting woodlands. Additionally, a 30-year landscape-scale project in Assynt will establish new native woodlands and restore remnants of rainforest.
Critical for Caledonian Forest
Tree planting is vital for Scotland’s threatened Caledonian forest, of which less than 2% remains. Trees for Life volunteers have already planted over two million trees at various sites across the Highlands. It restores the unique habitat that supports a diverse range of wildlife, including red squirrels, capercaillies, and crossbills.
Trees for Life is actively seeking volunteers to join the tree seed collection project in western and northern Scotland. Training and equipment will be provided for collecting and storing seeds. Interested individuals can contact Roz Birch for more information.roz@treesforlife.org.uk
Support and Funding
The Tree Seed Collection project is funded by Woodland Trust Scotland, with support from players of the People’s Postcode Lottery. The Trees for Life Wild Seed Appeal, along with the BrITE Foundation, Clean Planet Foundation, and Ella’s Kitchen, also contribute to the project.
Scotland is currently one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world. As members of the Scottish Rewilding Alliance, Trees for Life and Woodland Trust Scotland are urging people to sign the Rewilding Nation Charter. This charter calls on the Scottish Government to declare Scotland a rewilding nation. Hence, it commits to nature recovery on 30% of land and sea.
This initiative represents a significant step towards the restoration of Scotland’s natural landscape and the preservation of its unique wildlife. With continued support from volunteers and funding, the project promises to make a lasting positive impact on Scotland’s biodiversity.