Ribble Rivers Trust seeks volunteers to plant trees

Ribble Rivers Trust is launching its tree planting season on November 4, with opportunities to get involved across the Ribble Catchment, including sites in Hapton, Ribchester, Preston, Settle, and Colne.

The project aims to plant tens of thousands of native trees to improve the environment and support river health across the Ribble Catchment.

Ribble Rivers Trust volunteers work on a woodland creation site near Dinkley (Image: Ribble Rivers Trust)

James Birwistle, conservation and volunteering officer at Ribble Rivers Trust, said: "For us, tree planting isn't just about creating woodlands.

"It's about creating healthier rivers.

"The trees our volunteers plant today will help improve water quality, support wildlife, and create better habitats for species such as salmon, trout, and eels.

"Every tree really does make a difference."

The trust is encouraging people of all abilities to take part, highlighting that no experience is necessary and all equipment and training will be provided.

Volunteers only need to be able to walk across fields and climb stiles.

Tree planting supports wildlife, captures carbon, improves landscapes, and helps reduce flood risk by slowing water flow across the land.

Ellie Schenk, senior woodland creation officer at Ribble Rivers Trust, said: "We're incredibly grateful to the farmers and landowners who work with us each year.

"Their support allows us to create woodlands in the right places, delivering benefits for farming businesses, wildlife, water quality, and local communities.

"These projects are a fantastic example of what can be achieved when people work together."

The scheme is made possible by the cooperation of local farmers and landowners who offer up land for woodland and riverside habitat creation.

Volunteers are also encouraged to sign up for the trust’s weekly bulletin, which provides updates on events, accessibility, parking, maps, meeting points, and contact details.

Tree planting also offers a chance to enjoy the outdoors, meet new people, and contribute to a lasting environmental legacy.

Anyone interested in volunteering can sign up for alerts at ribbletrust.org.uk/volunteer.