Who are the volunteer Tree Wardens?

Tree Wardens are the eyes, ears and voice of trees in their community. The Tree Warden Scheme has been running for more than 30 years, and the dedication, creativity and passion of Tree Wardens is inspiring. Read on to find out more.

One of the main ways Tree Wardens make a difference is by planting new trees. In Pembrokeshire, the local Tree Warden Network has been helping schools plant new orchard trees, inspiring future generations to grow a tree-filled future.

And they also look after trees – both those they’ve planted and others in their local communities – protecting and enhancing the treescapes in their areas. Here, Tree Wardens in Ealing have removed a broken branch to ensure the tree remains healthy. 

Working with local authorities is important too. Here the Portsmouth Tree Wardens along with The Tree Council planted a ceremonial copse to mark 75 years since D Day. 

Throughout the year, Tree Wardens are planting, growing and caring for trees. During Seed
Gathering Season, many Tree Wardens lead community events and gather seeds from
healthy trees, and nurture them to become young saplings.

As well as thinking about the future, Tree Wardens also work hard to understand our trees’ histories, mapping and monitoring ancient trees to understand our cultural, historical and natural landscapes that make our country so unique.  At this training day in Lincolnshire, Tree Wardens were excited to find this stunning ancient beech tree. 

Tree Wardening is also about learning new skills and refreshing old ones to make sure that they’re doing all they can for trees and hedgerows. The traditional craft of hedge laying is something many Tree Wardens like to learn how to do, as at this workshop in Hampshire.

Getting to grips with tree identification so that Tree Wardens can protect the trees in their patch effectively is another really important part of their role. Here Tree Wardens in London learn to identify the trees around them.

There are Tree Warden Networks all over the country and every year we gather across county boundaries in different regions of the UK to share learnings and support one another. Here Tree Wardens from the South East of England gathered in Kent in the pouring rain to hear more about trees and loved it, despite the weather! 

Our Tree Wardens work closely with their local community to make sure that both people and green spaces can thrive. In Suffolk, Tree Wardens have been learning about different ways to use and enjoy local woodland, including engaging with young people at this fabulous BMX track. This community project means that young people in the area can spend time in nature while doing what they love, while the rest of the woodland is undisturbed.

Whether they’re planting or pruning, learning or listening, every day thousands of volunteer Tree Wardens across the country are working together for the love of trees. Find out more and join our incredible network of tree heroes.