A feast of tree planting in store this March

COMMUNITY groups across the county are being urged to get planting in early March and play their part in promoting National Tree Week 2013.
The March 3 to 10 week-long festival, co-ordinated nationally by the Tree Council of Ireland, is aimed at encouraging members of the public to plant more trees. This year’s theme is A Feast of Trees with a particular emphasis on planting trees that provide a food source for humans, birds, bees and other wildlife. 
Two events will be held in Clare – the official launch of National Tree Week in Westbury at 12 noon on March 3 and a tree-planting event at Lees Road Sports and Amenity Park on March 6, where pre-school children will participate in fun activities in the woodlands surrounding the amenity area. Saplings and standard native trees are also being made available to local community groups.
“While the Tree Council promotes awareness of trees all year round, National Tree Week gives us the opportunity to highlight a range of wonderful public woodlands and recreational facilities such as Lees Road Sports and Amenity Complex, Cratloe Woods, Dromore Woods Nature Reserve and Killaloe Woods,” explained Mayor of Clare, Councillor Pat Daly.
“I am urging community groups across Clare to plant trees in public areas during National Tree Week as they enhance and enrich our communities. Saplings and standard trees are available to community groups, who should contact staff in the Environment Section by February 28 to express their interest,” he added.
Joan Tarmey, Environmental Awareness Officer with Clare County Council, pointed out that by developing an interest in the local environment, people develop a sense of respect and responsibility.
“Research has shown that heightening our environmental awareness leads to reduced levels of litter, illegal dumping and ultimately a better place to live. I am urging people to participate in National Tree Week by attending an event near you, arranging a litter-pick in your local woodland, planting your own tree in your garden or by just going for a woodland walk.
“Trees have a strong role in providing food for humans, birds, bees and other wildlife. The range of foods from trees – fruit, nuts, seeds, oils, leaves, roots and bark will be highlighted along with the relationship between trees, bees, pollination and food crop production,” she explained.
A limited number of copies of the hugely successful Buds of the Banner – A Guide to Growing Native Trees and Shrubs in County Clare will also be available. The guide provides practical advice and information on what, when and how to plant native trees and shrubs. It is also available on th council’s website at www.clarecoco.ie. To avail of saplings or standard native trees, groups should contact staff in the Environment Section of Clare County Council on 065 6846331 or 065 6846386 by February 28. 
Meanwhile, the Woodland League & Centre for Environmental Living and Training in East Clare will hold a woodland walk and talk on Sunday, March 3 at 2pm in Tuamgraney Community Wood and Raheen Ancient Oak Wood.