12 August 2019
A nursery project is underway between Natural Environment and the charity Jersey Trees for Life, to help grow a stock of native tree species ready for planting across the island.
The trees will be cultivated from local tree stock and nurtured in a dedicated indoor greenhouse and outdoor nursery area at Howard Davis Farm in Trinity.
The concept of planting trees of local provenance contributes to local biosecurity, helping to minimise the risk of the importation of diseased stock, as well as providing trees that can’t be imported due to disease migration throughout Europe.
Willie Peggie, Director Natural Environment said: “We are delighted to be working with Jersey Trees for Life. Their expertise in sustainable afforestation in Jersey complements our goals of minimising the threat of tree and crop disease on the island.
“We also jointly recognise the important role of trees in tackling the climate emergency by off-setting carbon emissions and contributing to biodiversity and a cleaner, healthier environment for all.
“The nursery will provide trees for existing planting and pollination projects supporting wildlife corridors around the island making this joint project a winner on many levels.”
Gerard Farnham, Chair of Jersey Tress for Life, said: "We are happy to be working with Growth, Housing and Environment on this important nursery project. The space at Howard Davis Farm is a welcomed facility to help nurture and grow our valuable local tree stock.
“As well as cultivating reliable sources of native trees, we have the opportunity to engage with communities and Government with the aim of planting more trees in Jersey. In light of the effects of climate change, we must value our trees even more. With this project we have the opportunity to locally produce common native trees whilst increasing diversity to mitigate against threats caused by changing environmental conditions in the future.”
Preparation will begin this month with the aim to start planting out this winter.
gov.je