Planting partner: Arbor Day Foundation

Site coordinates: 53.4084° N, 2.9916° W

Tree species: Native e.g., English Oak, Cherry Plum, Rowan Mountain Ash, Scots Pine, Essex Hawthorn, European Beech

CO2 Sequestration: 1.5t

UN SDGs: 3 – Good health and wellbeing, 8 - Decent work and economic growth 10 - Reduced Inequalities 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production 13 – Climate Action, 15 – Life on land, 17 - Partnerships for the Goals

The Mersey Forest has planted over 9 million trees in Merseyside and North Cheshire, improving landscapes, lives, and the economy. This initiative involves collaboration among seven local authorities, Natural England, the Forestry Commission, the Environment Agency, and other public, private, and community organisations.

Home to 1.7 million people, The Mersey Forest aims to empower local communities, enhancing their quality of life and ensuring the sustainable use and appreciation of the woodland network. Tree planting and habitat creation on public and private land will be tailored to meet landowners’ needs, support tree health and resilience, and deliver multiple benefits for local communities. 

Planting is guided by various factors including landscape, heritage, biodiversity, soils, climate, agricultural land quality, green infrastructure needs, and Local Plans, adhering to the UK Forestry Standard. The planting strategy includes selecting appropriate locations, types of planting (individual trees, clusters, woodlands), species diversity, and seed provenance. It ensures legal compliance and good practices for sustainability, considering biodiversity, climate change, historic environment, landscape, soil, and water.