Why trees?
Trees are a vital part of life. Our planet and our people depend on them. They sustain our natural environment, generate economic opportunity for our communities and can provide health and wellbeing benefits for people of all ages.
Many people think of Cumbria as a green area but at 9.9% Cumbria is below the national average for woodland cover which is 12%.
Here at Raise: home of Cumbria Community Forest, we are working to improve access to woodland areas and green spaces so that more people can enjoy the benefits.
Wellbeing
Simply being outdoors and amongst nature is good for you. Research shows that access to trees and green spaces can improve your wellbeing by lowering stress, building confidence, and improving mental health.
Having trees nearby encourages wildlife and provides somewhere to explore year-round. With improved access to these spaces, people can walk, exercise, play and connect with nature leading to huge health and wellbeing benefits for individuals and communities.
Community Forests are about developing diverse areas and finding innovative ways for people to access trees and woodland wherever they live, particularly those in urban and peri urban areas. At Raise, we work with local communities to understand their needs and ensure that sites are developed in response to their views and requirements.
Economic benefits
The economic benefits of trees extend throughout the community – before, during and after planting. Job creation, skills development, income generation, land improvement – these are all factors that can be enjoyed by individuals and businesses in the surrounding area throughout the process.
Trees can also make land more resilient and multifunctional, reducing risks (and costs) from flooding, particularly crucial in an area like Cumbria that has suffered repeatedly from devastating flood damage in recent years.
Access to green spaces and tree canopies can also make properties more attractive to prospective buyers, increasing desirability and pushing up house prices.
Environment
The benefits of trees in the fight against climate change are now well understood. They can lock up carbon, support wildlife and biodiversity, reduce pollution, flooding, and allow farming to adapt to these new challenges.
Woodlands are home to a wealth of wildlife. Ecologically rich and robust woodlands help improve biodiversity and protect against species loss.
Soils and their health are hugely important to woodlands and any sustainable ecosystem. Trees and their roots help to move nutrients throughout the soil, maintaining moisture and improving overall quality.
Increasing tree cover also reduces the risk of flooding.
At 9.9% Cumbria is below the national average for woodland cover which is 12%.
