Charity to rescue with gift of trees
A new charity has helped out an environmental project which was targeted by thieves - thanks to an article in the Observer.
Last week we reported on the theft of 300 newly-planted trees from the banks of the Endrick Water which were being planted by Loch Lomond Fisheries.
And in a separate article we reported that a newly-established charity, TreeLink Stirling, had forged links between locals to help with reforesting ten acres of land near Lochearnhead.
When TreeLink heard of more young trees looking for a good home they remembered the Observer article about the theft and decided to take action.
TreeLink trustee Ann White said: “I was told of a lady who is planting a small woodland and had about 70 trees more than she needed and was looking for a good home for them.
“Just as they became available we read of the dreadful theft of the trees in the Stirling Observer, so it seemed obvious that we should donate the trees to them to replace some of those that had been lost.
“On Sunday evening I visited the new woodland to collect the trees. It is in a beautiful, secluded spot and is home to many different species of birds. The newlyestablished pond will surely bring many more creatures to the wood.
“I handed the trees and their associated stakes and tree shelters to Malcom MacCormick on Monday lunchtime. Another bonus was that I was able to direct the lady who had donated the trees to suppliers of native bluebells and other wildflowers that she might be able to plant in her wood.
“It felt really good to have been part of this collaboration aimed at improving the local environment.”
Malcolm MacCormick of Loch Lomond Fisheries Trust added: “This was a real boost after the shock of the theft.
“I am extremely grateful to TreeLink for thinking of us and to the Observer for bringing the theft to TreeLink’s attention.
“The trees will be in the ground this week and will make a difference to our work to maintain the levels of salmon and trout in the water as climate change impacts the river.”
For more information about TreeLink and its work to protect and promote trees across the Stirling Council area visit www. treelinkstirling.org or email: treelinkstirling@outlook.com