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Households across Caerphilly County Borough will be able to collect a tree sapling free of charge this February half-term.
The giveaway is part of the Welsh Government’s My Tree Our Forest initiative to tackle the climate emergency and create a ‘National Forest for Wales’.
The saplings can be collected from four hubs across the borough, which are run by Coed Cadw.
They can be found at Parc Penallta’s main car park and Cwmcarn Forest Drive’s visitor centre, as well as Ty Mynyddislwyn on Bryn Road, Pontllanfraith and Lawn Industrial Estate in Rhymney.
When can tree saplings be collected?
Park Penallta – Monday February 20, 2pm to 2.30pm.
Ty Mynyddislwyn – Monday February 20 to Friday February 24, 10am to 3pm.
Cwmcarn Forest Drive Visitors Centre – Tuesday February 21, 2pm to 2.30pm.
Unit 21 Lawn Industrial Estate, Rhymney – Tuesday February 21 and Thursday February 23, 10am to 12pm.
What is Coed Cadw?
Coed Cadw is the Woodland Trust in Wales.
On it’s website, it states: “We plant trees and campaign for better protection for woodlands and trees across the country.
“We also look after more than 100 woods which are yours to explore whenever you like. Together, we can stand up for trees in Wales.
“For wildlife. For people.”
Ten different species of native and broadleaf trees are available, including: Hazel; Rowan; Hawthorn; Silver Birch; Crab Apple; Sessile Oak; Dogwood; Dog Rose; Field Maple; and Elder.
Trained volunteers will be on hand at the collection hubs to offer advice on choosing the right tree for the right space.
Once planted, the trees will form part of the National Forest for Wales.
What is the National Forest for Wales?
The National Forest for Wales was announced by First Minister Mark Drakeford back in 2020.
The idea was to create new areas of woodland across Wales, as well as maintaining ancient woodlands across the country, as part of an effort to protect nature and counter the loss of biodiversity.
When it was announced, it was supported with £5m of Welsh Government funding.
Natalie Buttriss, Director of Coed Cadw, said: “With warmer weather on the horizon, now is the perfect time to spring into action against the effects of climate change by collecting a tree from your local hub and planting it in your garden.”
Those unable to visit a hub to pick up a tree will be able to order one online and have it delivered or planted on their behalf by landowners providing green spaces as part of the scheme.
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