Bristol Water plants 900 trees to enhance habitats

The trees were planted in areas of special scientific interest (SSSI)

A water company has planted hundreds of trees to help enhance natural habitats and protect woodlands.

Volunteers from Bristol Water helped plant more than 900 trees over the autumn and winter tree planting season.

Alongside environmental habitat management service, Green Mantle, a mixture of native deciduous trees were planted at Bristol Water's sites.

Kirsty Dunford from Bristol Water says the scheme will help to meet their goal of reaching net zero by 2030.

The trees, including English Oak, Silver Birch, Willow and Blackthorn, were planted around Chew Valley, Blagdon and Cheddar reservoirs.

Natural walking corridors

The woodlands in these areas host countless species and are all designated as sites of special scientific interest (SSSI).

It is hoped the new trees will help increase biodiversity and fill in the gaps where diseased ash trees had to be felled, as well as protecting areas from footfall by creating natural walking corridors.

"I'd like to thank everyone who helped us plant these trees," said Ms Dunford, Bristol Water's Conservation, Access and Recreations Manager.

"They will make a big difference to the environments at our sites, helping us to conserve and enhance them for wildlife and local residents to enjoy.

"This season's planting will also help us meet our goal to reach net zero by 2030, which includes planting 300,000 trees across the wider South West region."