The Woodland Restoration Project

Donations will help fund the clearance of fallen trees, restoration of safe public access, replanting of woodland areas, habitat regeneration, and the creation of more resilient, sustainable shelterbelts for the future.

Clearing and making areas safe is already underway and is probably the most significant part of the overall task, but full woodland regeneration will take several years.

Replanting is a central part of the project. We are taking this opportunity to replant thoughtfully - strengthening biodiversity, improving resilience to future storms, and caring for the long-term health of the island landscape.

To protect the island's natural character and the health of young trees, we will not be placing individual plaques on trees. New trees would also take many years to mature enough to hold a plaque, delaying your recognition.

Instead, we are developing a meaningful way to recognise all supporters together, and we will share details once confirmed. Rest assured, all contributions over £50 will be publicly recognised.

We are incredibly grateful for the many generous offers of practical help we have received. The restoration work, however, is complex and often requires specialist skills, training, and equipment to be carried out safely and effectively. In addition, the islands have very limited accommodation capacity for those travelling from elsewhere.

For these reasons, we are unfortunately not able to accept volunteer support at this time. Your encouragement, understanding, and donations remain deeply valued as we work to restore the woodlands for the future.

Yes, many supporters are choosing to give in memory of loved ones. Please just contact the Island Office by email to request that your donation is in memory of a loved one.

While plaques will not be placed on trees, memorial gifts will be included in our collective recognition of supporters.

Thank you for your generosity in asking. Gift Aid is only available for donations made to registered charities. As we are not a registered charity, Gift Aid does not apply to contributions to the Woodland Restoration Project. Your support, however, remains deeply appreciated and makes a meaningful difference to the restoration of our woodlands.

We have worked closely with our insurers following the storm. Insurance will contribute towards certain aspects of the immediate damage and recovery, most notably the damage to our buildings.

However, wind damage to trees is generally considered by insurers to be an act of nature and is therefore not covered. Our woodlands are priceless, and insurance does not extend to the cost of clearance, long-term restoration, replanting, and future-proofing these areas.

The Woodland Restoration Project has been established to help bridge that gap and to ensure we can regenerate the island landscape thoughtfully and sustainably for generations to come.

Replanting will be carefully planned, using species suited to the island’s climate and conditions.

Our aim is to strengthen biodiversity, improve resilience to future storms, and create shelterbelts designed for a changing environment. Ensuring strict biosecurity is also vital to the process. 

Sourcing, transporting and establishing trees responsibly on an island brings additional cost, but it is essential to protect the health of our landscape for the long term and to safeguard against pests and disease.

Not immediately. Woodland regeneration is a long-term process. Some areas will look very different in the early years, but with time and careful stewardship, they will grow into strong, healthy landscapes for future generations.

While replanting will begin as soon as conditions allow, this is a long-term commitment to the future of the island.

Yes. We are committed to keeping supporters updated as work progresses and as the new woodland begins to establish and grow.

Keep an eye on our website, social media and the Tresco Times for updates.