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Tree Wardens
A Network of Green Enthusiasts
The Tree Warden Scheme is a national initiative
founded by the Tree Council and coordinated at a local level
by District councils, County Councils, or other community
organisations. 
Bob Smith, Great Comberton Tree Warden
and Wade Muggleton looking at a veteran oak
that Bob recorded during his surveyTree Wardens are
volunteers with a passion for trees. Appointed by Parish Councils or local community
organisations, they gather information about their local trees, get involved
in tree matters and encourage local projects to do with trees, woodlands and
hedgerows. This year sees the schemes 15th anniversary with Tree Warden networks
throughout the UK and well over 7,000 Tree Wardens.
Why are Tree Wardens Needed?
Trees are a precious and often-overlooked part of our natural
heritage and action is needed now if future generations are to enjoy the beauty
and variety of our landscapes. The most effective action is often that taken
by local people who know their own localities intimately and have most to gain
from protecting and enhancing it.
Tree Wardens need not be tree experts, only enthusiasts. Training is normally given by he network coordinator on topics such as tree surveying, summer and winter tree identification, tree planting and aftercare, tree health & disease, veteran trees and tree law. Wardens are supported in their work by their Parish Council or community group, which in turn will look to the Local Authority for help.
“The main reason I volunteer as a Tree Warden
is to put something back into my local community and the environment”
The Tree Warden's Role
The most often asked question is ‘What can I do as
a Tree Warden’? The answer is several fold:
Gather information
By carrying out a survey of their local trees a picture can be built up of the
species mix, age range and condition of the trees in the area. From this an
assessment of future planting needs can be made. Collect stories about local
trees. Many ancient trees are tied to local history and by recording their stories
we not only ensure their survival but raise awareness of the part trees play
in our culture and history.
Local community liaison
A key element of the Tree Warden role is being a friendly face in the community.
Tree Wardens may be asked questions on planting trees, dealing with a damaged
tree, or identifying a species of tree. Wardens will not necessarily have all
the answers, but they will soon learn where to find them.
Beckford Tree Warden John Clifford
inspecting an oak on the village greenProtecting
trees
Trees and woods often need protection, and local people can often see what needs
to be done before Council Officers. Tree Wardens have a vital role to play here,
by helping to ensure compliance with tree preservation orders and planning consents.
They can also keep their eyes open for vandalism to newly planted trees, and
look out for trees showing signs of disease, or becoming dangerous through decay.
Organising practical projects such as tree planting or woodland management. Community involvement is one of the main aims of the Tree Warden Scheme. Wardens work with schools to create conservation areas, organise guided tree walks, give talks to local groups, help farmers to lay hedges, encourage local environmental improvement projects, plan tree planting projects for National Tree Week and so on. Involving children and youth groups also helps to control vandalism.
Worcestershire Wardens
In Worcestershire there are around 60 tree wardens who undertake
a wide range of projects including new plantings; aftercare of young trees;
veteran tree & orchard surveys of their parish. They may also be asked to
look at trees involved in planning issues, so assisting their District Tree
Officer. Worcestershire has included its Tree Wardens in their wider volunteer
policy. Similar to Parish Path Wardens and Country Park Volunteers, they each
receive a quarterly newsletter “The Worcestershire Warden” and can
attend training and social events.
A Tree Warden network can be a real benefit to a Countryside Service, giving eyes and ears on the ground as well getting done some of those jobs done the professionals never get around to. As one of our local Tree Wardens put it: “The main reason I volunteer as a Tree Warden is to put something back into my local community and the environment” - Dave Edgerton, Worcestershire Tree Warden.
Wade Muggleton
Wider Countryside Officer
Worcestershire County Council
Tree Warden Scheme