The Tree Warden Scheme was introduced in Chelmsford Borough in March 2004. As a result of this most Parishes have at least one nominated Tree Warden, and with the help of the Chelmsford Society, Tree Wardens have also been found to cover all the wards within Chelmsford town itself. There are now 50 Tree Wardens working with the council and their defined areas.
Training programmes are organised every year. Events have included summer and winter identification, a visit to Hatfield Forest where the curator spoke about the veteran trees and their management, a visit to RHS Hyde Hall for planting training and a session on fungii. In October 2005, Chelmsford hosted the East Anglian Tree Warden Forum at Hylands House in Hylands Park, which was recently the venue for the World Scout Jamboree. Chelmsford also organised an Essex wide event at Marks Hall, Coggleshall where the renowned tree expert, Ted Green, spoke about veteran trees.
Future plans include supporting the restoration of an ancient woodland and practical management of a woodland on the banks of the Chelmer and Blackwater Navigation.
If you are interested in trees and want to become part of this network, please contact Lynn Cameron for further information.
