Tree with leaves

This is a part of the Queen’s Green Canopy tree-planting initiative.

The national initiative was created to celebrate Her Late Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Following the wishes of His Majesty The King, it has now been extended from December 2022 to March 2023, to serve as a lasting tribute to HM Queen Elizabeth II’s service, and to include the next full tree planting season.

In line with the national tree planting season, NFDC’s tree planting work will start from October 2022 through to March 2023.

60 trees will be planted in The Queen’s name in 30 locations around the district. Areas will include Fawley, Milford on Sea, Ringwood, Hythe and New Milton.

NFDC planted three trees to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee in May 2022. The trees with a red, white and blue theme can be seen at the council’s Appletree Court offices in Lyndhurst.

NFDC Chairman, Cllr Alan O’Sullivan said, “Each tree planted in the district as a part of this initiative will celebrate Her late Majesty the Queen’s reign and enhance open spaces for our local communities to enjoy for generations to come.

“This marks one step of many on our journey to tackle climate change and to make our district more sustainable for residents, visitors and wildlife.

It’s a step which recognises a remarkable legacy, and leads towards a greener future for the New Forest district.”

Trees for the initiative have been chosen for their suitability for the local area and climate. Species include oak, cedar, birch, and pine.

Planning is currently underway for two of the trees to be planted in Fawley Fields, where the council will also be planting a few hundred young tree whips and creating wildflower areas.

Some of the young tree whips will be planted by local school children.

NFDC will provide updates as their involvement in The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative progresses.

If residents are interested in planting trees to honour Her late Majesty the Queen, information and advice can be read at https://queensgreencanopy.org/get-involved