Down Schools Hold Community Tree Planting

Pupils from Downpatrick schools held a community tree planting event on Friday 22 March.

The idea for the tree planting came when a group of sixth formers from Down High School initiated an eco-enrichment group to bring all Downpatrick schools together to improve the environment and habitats for native wild flowers, birds, small mammals and pollinators.

The group were determined that this project should benefit the whole community and not just schools and, once all the schools agreed on the approach, the group took advice from the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council on locating a suitable site.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin said, “I am delighted to have been involved in this community tree planting today. The Council understands the importance of trees and their role in keeping us and our environment healthy. We are committed to improving our greenspace for biodiversity and were more than happy to get involved with this great initiative.

“The site is adjacent to Dunleath playing fields and accessible to all. Overlooked by our wonderful new Down Leisure Centre, it is the ideal location for a new community woodland.”

The pupils planted over 200 native trees, including alder and willow, which were generously donated by local nursery owner, Gerard Byrne.

Down High School teacher, Rachel Wilson said, “This project gives young people of all ages and abilities an opportunity to get outside and improve their environment and make their community a better place to live. We hope that this new woodland area will become an innovative outdoor learning environment for all the schools in the town.”