As the summer season draws to a close, the Sherwood Forest Trust is excited to share the latest updates on their efforts to preserve and enhance the iconic Sherwood Forest.
This summer, the Trust successfully hosted two major events at Thoresby Park: the Sherwood Forest Trust Woodland Festival, celebrating the natural beauty and heritage of the woodlands, and the Spirit of Wartime Sherwood event, which honoured the history and contributions of those who lived and served during the war. Both events saw fantastic community participation and engagement, reinforcing the collective commitment to preserving natural and historical heritage.
Izzy, the Community Tree Nursery Officer, has been very busy planting wildflowers with her volunteers at the Sherwood Seedbank. They have been removing the grass to make space for the new wildflowers, eliminating some competition and giving the new flowers the best chance to flourish. Not only do these flowers create a beautiful environment around the tree nursery, but they also boost biodiversity and support pollinators, helping butterflies and bees thrive.
The Trust is now looking forward to a busy autumn and winter, with the tree planting and seed collecting season kicking off. They will be planting 3,500 trees at Common Lane in Mansfield Woodhouse, near Oxclose Wood. Additionally, they will be restoring and maintaining the heathland at Sherwood Heath (Ollerton), Oak Tree Heath (Mansfield), and Thieves Wood (near Mansfield). To get involved, contact Katie at katie.doull@sherwoodforesttrust.org.uk.
Seed collecting efforts will continue to grow at the Sherwood Seedbank, the community tree nursery. Last year, volunteers collected hundreds of acorns from Sherwood Forest. This year, they will be hunting for acorns, maple, hazel seeds, and more in exciting new locations. To join, contact Izzy at isabelle.pass@sherwoodforesttrust.org.uk.
The Trust works with hundreds of people each year, from primary school children to local volunteers, welcoming all abilities to help look after community green spaces. Their work relies on volunteers; they simply could not do what they do without them.
Volunteering with the Sherwood Forest Trust is a great way to connect with nature, meet like-minded individuals, and make a positive impact on the local environment. Whether you have a few hours to spare or are looking for a regular commitment, they welcome all abilities and would love your support.