The Sherwood Forest Trust is dedicated to protecting and enhancing the legendary Sherwood Forest and surrounding areas. With its iconic oaks and ties to the Robin Hood legend, the forest is a vital part of Britain’s natural and cultural heritage. In 2025, the Trust has plans for more tree planting and more heathland restoration and is calling for volunteers to join their efforts.
This year, the Trust will continue focus on increasing biodiversity through their projects. Our community tree nursery, the Sherwood Seedbank will remain a cornerstone of this work, collecting and growing local tree seeds to maintain the genetic diversity of the forest’s native species.
We plan to plant thousands of trees in the first few months of 2025, as part of the Trees For Climate project which aims to create woodlands in England in an effort to address climate change, and to improve the environment and local areas for communities to benefit from.
This winter, we have planted around 1,500 trees with over 100 volunteers at Carr Lane in Warsop, as part of the new Warsop Health Hub development, on behalf of Mansfield District Council. Tree planting has also begun at Common Lane in Mansfield Woodhouse, where volunteers will plant a further 3,500 trees. Volunteer sessions run weekly and are led by Community Volunteer Co-ordinator Katie Doull, Community Conservation Officer, Katie Vickers, and Forestry Roots Trainee, Rachel Rattray.
Volunteering with the Sherwood Forest Trust is a fantastic way to give back to nature while also improving your own wellbeing. Spending time outdoors and connecting with the natural world has been proven to boost mental health, reduce stress, and improve mood. Planting trees or maintaining trails are great for fitness, while the chance to meet new people and work as part of a team fosters a sense of community and belonging. Volunteer opportunities are open to anyone of any ability, and it is a fantastic opportunity for groups and businesses to give back to the community and benefit from team building activities. Regular volunteer groups include Linney, Mansfield Building Society, Abode Mortgages, KPMG, and The Adventure Service.
“It impresses me that everyone in the community is working together here, no matter who they are, how old they are, where they come from, or their race or religion. If everybody was like this then maybe the world wouldn’t be such a mess” Cadan, 19, from the Adventure Service said on his first volunteer session with the Sherwood Forest Trust, planting trees at Common Lane in Mansfield Woodhouse.
Volunteer contributions have a lasting impact on our green spaces, it not only helps the planet, but also offers a chance to learn new skills, make friends, and enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of being in nature. Make 2025 the year you get involved. Tree planting volunteer sessions run until mid March, and Heathland volunteer sessions will follow.
