15:46, 19 April 2023
Words by Abi Scaife, Staff Writer, London
Conservationists are restoring a valley in Yorkshire to its historic state.
According to research, the 561-hectare valley that surrounds Snaizeholme in Yorkshire was once covered in ancient woodland.
Today, it lies almost completely barren, providing no protection for the wildlife that once thrived there.
The Woodland Trust is aiming to plant trees across the valley, starting with 291 hectares, which will become the largest continuous woodland in the country.
The aim is not only to restore the area to its former glory, and to help the climate and environment with extra trees, but also to help our native red squirrel.
The red squirrel population has been badly affected by the larger, more boisterous, non-native grey squirrels that were introduced in the late 1890s. By restoring the woodland in Snaizeholme, woodland that is perfect for red squirrels, The Woodland Trust hopes to help the creatures thrive, and grow.
If you’re interested in helping The Woodland Trust with this project, whether through donations or volunteering, you can do so through their website.
This article aligns with the UN SDGs Life on Land and Climate Action.
