Trees play a crucial role for the environment, stabilising our soil, providing oxygen, storing carbon and providing habitats for wildlife.
Three years have now passed since Storm Arwen brought wind speeds of 110 miles per hour to Scotland, uprooting and damaging more than 16 million trees in Scotland and Northumberland.
To support the rejuvenation of our woodlands, Apache Corporation expanded its tree grant programme to the UK to assist nonprofits and local authorities with planting projects.
Founded in 2005, the Apache Tree Grant Programme has donated over five million trees in the US. In Scotland, more than 3,600 native trees have already been granted to local charities and nonprofit organisations, including Findochty Primary School, River Dee Trust, Camphill School Aberdeen, Belhelvie Community Trust and Beannachar Limited.
One of last year’s recipients, Camphill School Aberdeen, received 2,500 mixed species trees to support flood defenses.
“This amazing support extends our partnership with Apache, and we’re so grateful we can work together on our journey to expand biodiversity,” said Alex Busch, executive director of Camphill School Aberdeen
Findochty Primary received 50 native trees in the first round of Apache Corporation’s Tree Grant Programme in the UK.
“Planting trees in our school grounds offers a wide range of benefits, including educational, environmental, and social advantages that can enrich the school experience for children and contribute to a healthier planet for future generations,” said Dawn Thomson, head teacher, Findochty Primary School.
“Trees provide habitats for various wildlife species, such as birds, squirrels, and insects; by planting trees in our school grounds, children can observe and learn about local wildlife, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and the world around them. With the support of Apache and the donation of these trees, the project will encourage all our youngsters to become stewards of nature.”
Applications are now open until August 5 for the 2024/2025 planting season.
For more information and to apply to the 2024-2025 Apache Tree Grant Programme, please visit www.apachelovestrees.com.
Successful applicants will be announced on October 1, 2024, and all trees must be received and planted or distributed by May 31, 2025.