Over 200 trees and shrubs were planted last weekend at The Children’s Centre Community Farm as part of the development of its Conservation Area. The work party combined the forces of several local charities and a Manx business.
Volunteers from the Isle of Man Permaculture Association joined staff from The Children’s Centre, families and young people under the expert guidance of Steve Prescott of Manx Native Trees. They planted a fruiting hedge, windbreak trees and plants specifically chosen to increase biodiversity including bee and insect friendly species. Many trees were provided by Manx Native Trees with additional trees gifted by members of Transition Isle of Man and members of the public.
The on-going project is one of many running at The Community Farm meeting its key aim of reconnecting children with the countryside. Plans for the five acre field include a wildflower meadow, an orchard and bee hives. Wildlife ponds and willow coppices have already been created in the area that will provide a space for camping, bug hunts and woodland crafts in the future.
The planting day coincided with the launch of the Manx Woodland Trust’s Eco Week. Directors of that charity endorsed the planting scheme on a visit to The Community Farm.
For further information about The Community Farm and the other charities and organisations involved in this initiative see the links below:
www.thechildrenscentre.org.im/what-we-do/community/community-farm/
www.manxnativetrees.yolasite.com
www.permacultureiom.org
http://isleofmanwoodlandtrust.com
