Aim: To summarise the key tree planting and maintenance activities of EETAB over the January to March 2025 planting period. EETAB has been actively engaged in local tree projects and related events.
Key Activities and Events:
- December 2024: To mark its 30th anniversary, EETAB launched a project to identify 30 significant local trees. The goal was to create a public tree map and a possible walking/cycling route. Community nominations for valued trees were sought. The nominated trees and trail will be published shortly.
- January 2025: EETAB group meetings were held, including one at the Epsom Club on January 15th, 2025. Discussions included potential collaboration regarding land at Grafton Road and advocacy for the Climate and Nature (CAN) Bill. Planting projects planned for February, with nursery dates in March.
- February 2025:
- Volunteer event at Horton Country Park on February 8th, 2025, for replacement tree planting and mulching.
- Concerns raised and addressed regarding poor planting practices and tree removal at Kendor Avenue.
- An article to share successes from our thriving community tree nursery was written and published in the Surrey Tree Wardens Network. You can read the article here
- March 2025:
- Tree nursery working parties were held on 7th and 19th March. Preparations for tree planting at the Epsom club were undertaken. Oak trees were relocated and a dead hedge installed. Birch was donated to the Old Malden community tree planting group and an inventory update was conducted.
- A hedge planting event was held at the Epsom Club on Sunday, March 9th, 2025.
- London Plane tree was planted in Rosebery Park on Tuesday March 25th, serving as a lasting tribute to honour Mike Ford’s tireless work promoting and protecting Epsom’s trees.
- 9th April 2025 work party at St Martins School to mulch and maintain the young trees.
- Ongoing Activities: EETAB continues to monitor newly planted tree conditions and coordinates with authorities regarding maintenance and potential watering schedules.
Key Concerns and discussions:
- Potential sale and development of woodland at Grafton Road (SCC land) and ecological impact. Concerns about tree protection and the need for further Tree Protection Orders (TPOs).
- Issues with tree planting quality and practices in various locations.
- Concern over salting near trees causing potential damage and discussing tree protection methods with the building management.
- Planning future watering schedules for newly planted trees due to dry weather.
In summary, EETAB has been actively involved in various tree planting, maintenance, and advocacy efforts. We remain dedicated to preserving and enhancing the local tree population.
As we move into the warmer months work will focus on maintaining the young trees in the ground and nurturing trees at the tree nursery. We have had several working party dates and more are planned
Upcoming Tree Nursery Working Parties
Additional tasks include watering and re-potting about 100 small birches, plus a bit of trench digging. Upcoming tree nursery events are in the calendar