From the nation’s great forests to local parks, trees that line our streets and those in our back gardens, Tributes to Trees is a celebration of trees and woodlands everywhere, reminding us how they sustain life on earth.
The thoughts and tributes will be published in an online gallery and selected writings shared at special centenary tree-planting events across the country later this year. The project is a blank canvas as the Commission looks to gather a diverse collection of letters, poems, stories and memories.
PK Khaira-Creswell, Director, centenary programme, said, “Trees are both a life-source and source of inspiration for people everywhere. During our centenary year, we want to encourage the nation to pause, and reflect on what trees and forests mean to them.
“This collection of thoughts will connect people with the beauty and diversity of our landscapes, and highlight the importance of trees both for people and nature.”
From nostalgic childhood memories to a favourite woodland walk, the public is being encouraged to create writing inspired by personal passions and experiences.
The writings will reflect how forests offer a unique environment in which to improve physical and mental health.
To find out more, and submit your tribute, visit: www.forestryengland.uk/tributes
The Forestry Commission is marking its centenary this year with a cultural programme that reflects on its history, while looking forward to the next 100 years. The anniversary is an opportunity to tell the stories of the nation’s forests, and inspire people to connect with the trees and woodlands on their doorstep.
‘Tributes to Trees’ is part the Year of Green Action, a year-long drive in 2019 to help people to connect with, protect and enhance nature.
ENDS
Images: www.dropbox.com/sh/0cnfcin08saxonp/AAAO9BlrvhroNxRvs7nnRD37a?dl=0
For further press information please contact:
Harry Shepherd, Forestry Commission
harry.shepherd@forestryengland.uk
0300 067 4363 | 07920 542173
Notes to editors:
Forestry Commission
100 Years of Forestry: 1919 – 2019
Founded in 1919 to replenish the nation’s strategic timber reserves in the wake of WWI, the Forestry Commission is England’s largest public landowner. It leads world-class research and actively manages over 1500 public forests and woodlands to benefit people, nature and the economy. It acts as the Government’s expert forestry advisors, helping to protect, improve and expand England’s forests.
Throughout 2019 the Forestry Commission will celebrate 100 years of forestry with a programme of events taking place throughout England. It will mark this milestone by celebrating the vital contribution forests make to enhancing our wellbeing, economy and environment. It will also look ahead to the next hundred years, at how forests will continue to play a critical role in underpinning the resilience of our environment, landscapes and economy into the future.