At the River Hamble Country Park, the Leader of Hampshire County Council, Councillor Keith Mans planted the first tree in The Queen’s Copse, created as part of The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative to mark Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee 2022.
Councillor Keith Mans said: “It’s an honour to be able to plant such a special Oak tree here today, knowing that along with the other 350 trees to be planted, it will grow to be part of a new Reflections and Connections woodland with over 7,000 trees for all to enjoy. The trees planted in The Queen’s Copse are surrounded by the park’s 400-year-old ancient woodland, and I am delighted to be adding to our natural heritage in celebration of Her Majesty The Queen’s 70-year reign.
“This wonderful new Copse and woodland will be here for generations to come as we continue to protect and enhance the county’s natural environment and tackle climate change in Hampshire. I hope the many visitors to the Park will enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits nature, and in particular woodlands, offer us all.”
The Queen’s Copse will be home to 350 sapling trees, including English Oaks and smaller Scots pines along with Cherry, Silver Birch, Field Maple, and Hornbeam. These will be complemented by a shrub layer of native hedge plants to increase the biodiversity of flora and fauna.
Councillor Mans continued: “The newly planted area will take about 25 years to resemble woodland as we think of it, but the English Oak chosen can live for well over 500 years, taking up to 150 years to mature to its full 40-metre height and width – which will give a real legacy for our future generations to cherish and enjoy.”
Trees planted by Hampshire County Council will be added to The Queen’s Green Canopy Map.
Anyone interested in ‘Planting a Tree for the Jubilee’ can find out more about what to plant, and where and when to plant, to make sure each tree thrives for future generations.
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