Deadline: 16-Dec-21
International Tree Foundation is accepting applications for its UK Community Tree Planting Programme to support grassroots community engagement in tree planting.
The programme has supported more than 50 small-scale projects over the last 20 years, from community orchards to native woodland planting. ITF is now seeking to continue and expand this work with a new round of UK tree-planting projects in 2021, focused on community-led initiatives across the UK.
ITF’s UK Community Tree Planting Programme (UKCTPP) represents an excellent way of contributing to the much-needed reforestation of the UK. At just 13%, the UK has one of the lowest tree covers in Europe (average 35% in the EU). This programme aims to unlock many benefits brought about by tree planting. ITF believes local communities know what project is appropriate for their area and landscape.
Programme purpose
The UK Community Tree Planting Programme aims to support community projects that will:
- conserve, restore and protect indigenous trees and woodlands, forests, habitats and associated biodiversity
- support community engagement in tree planting to promote reforestation and to increase awareness of the importance of trees and forests to environmental and human well-being
- encourage social cohesion and inclusion
Funding Information
- They award grants of up to £6000 to local community projects.
- There are two tiers of funding available:
- Small scale: A maximum of £1,000 is available for projects of up to 1 year in duration. This could be small community woodland, orchards, hedging projects, etc.
- Larger scale: Projects to range from 1000 – 5000 trees, with a maximum price equivalent to £1.25/tree (inclusive of tree protection). Most suitable for community woodland or hedging projects.
Criteria
ITF’s priorities for this round of the UK Community Tree Planting Programme are to support community-based tree planting initiatives that meet the following essential criteria:
- Be based in the UK.
- Plant trees in public / publicly-accessible spaces: sites that are readily accessible to the public, including schools, parks, rights of way, and sites managed by community groups
- Plant indigenous tree species: this may include traditional fruit trees and ‘honorary’ natives where appropriate
- Plant a minimum of 50 trees per £1,000 of grant funding or regenerate land for the benefit of trees and local wildlife
- Engage community members in tree planting and enjoying the benefits of woodlands
- Have clear plans for maintenance and sustainability
Eligibility Criteria
- They are now accepting applications for the 2021-22 planting season. ITF can provide funding and consultation for projects that meet the following criteria:
- Up to 5000 trees
- Native UK species
- On publicly-accessible land
- To be eligible for funding from this round of the UK Community Tree Planting Programme:
- Your organisation must be community-based e.g. a school, community group or non-governmental organisation.
- You must have a bank account in the name of the applicant organisation
- You must have signed permission from the owner or manager of the land indicating that the project meets all legal requirements.
For more information, visit https://internationaltreefoundation.org/uk-community-tree-planting/