Free Tree Scheme

Since 1988, Countrycare has successfully operated its free tree scheme and as a result many thousands of trees have been planted across the Epping Forest District. All this effort has helped to enhance both the visual landscape of the District's countryside and provide valuable habitats for wildlife. The main purpose of the scheme is to encourage groups and individuals to undertake the planting and care of trees on their own land.

What are the main requirements?

1. The trees must be planted in a countryside setting within the Epping Forest District.
2. The site must be visible to the general public.
3. The recipient of the scheme is required to plant the trees themselves and maintain them for the first five years, replacing any trees that die within that period - planting trees with no aftercare is a waste of time - watering and weeding is probably the most crucial aspect to the success of any planting and young trees require a lot of attention in their early years.

Who is eligible?

The scheme is open to all landowners, parish councils, tree warden groups, schools or other amenity societies that are able to meet the criteria of the scheme.

How many trees?

The scheme will provide between 25 and 200 trees and shrubs, tree guards and mulch matting.

What type of trees can I plant?

All the trees will be native British trees - please click here to view the Free Tree Scheme Information Sheet 1 - Suitable Trees

What type of projects have been accepted in the past?

• Hedgerow restoration and creation (i.e. gapping up existing old hedgerows or planting new ones. Maximum length 50 metres in any 1 year)
• Copse creation (i.e. planting small copses in field corners)
• Tree avenues (i.e. planting trees along field boundaries or farm tracks)

How many schemes are awarded each year?

Each year there is a limit of 10 schemes.

How are the schemes selected?

Priority is given to those schemes that have -

• The greatest wildlife and landscape benefit
• Have direct community participation

What is the timescale for the Free Tree Scheme?

Application accepted and site visits made by staff - April to July each year

Applicants notified if their scheme has been accepted - Mid August

Trees Ordered - Late October

Trees Delivered - December

Planting season - December to March each year

How do I apply?

All you have to do is call the Countrycare Office and arrange a site visit with a member of the Countrycare team - we will come out and discuss your proposals and offer any advice you may need about planting methods and aftercare.

Interested? Then please contact Countrycare at the address below -

Epping Forest Countrycare

Directorate of Planning and Economic Development

Civic Offices, High Street

Epping

Essex, CM16 4BZ

Telephone - 01992 788203

Fax - 01992 650036

Email - contactcountrycare@eppingforestdc.gov.uk

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