South Molton

Friday 6th and Saturday 7th of March 2026, we set about planting this hedgerow, with 11 volunteers signed up for Friday and 27 signed up for Saturday. For entirely unknown reasons we had the worst turnout of volunteers we've ever had, with only 7 of 11 on Friday (reasonable) and 4 of 27 on Saturday, two of which were children.

Despite these setbacks, we got stuck in, and planted at least 200m of the hedgerow. It was slow going as we were "gapping up" an old hedgerow, meaning much of the work was clearing back bramble and branches to be able to plant enough saplings to restore the hedgerow to being a functioning stock-proof wildlife corridor.

The trees we were unable to plant have been partially stored safely for later planting, and some have been reused on another site, with more fresh saplings coming to replace them for future planting Saturday 21st of March, where we have a large group of volunteers eager to pitch in.

This site was a joy to visit. The horses and sheep were loving their new home, with so many trees and hedgerows starting to create a more diverse and mixed farm scene, taking over from the empty fields and fences.

The landowners were concerned that as many as 35% had failed, but many of them were just hiding amongst long grass. Overall, an 80% survival rate on the tree planting, with the lowest pocket being 70% and the best pocket being 100%.

The hedgerows are taking nicely with no noticeable gaps. Fences are doing their job. Perhaps some weeding is needed next spring, as there is a lot of thick grass and growth is not what it could be.

We planted hedge species typically found in this part of Devon, which now connect up areas of existing woodland which we enhanced with more Oak, Rowan and Hornbeam. All the species planted will provide food and nesting habitat for a wide range of wildlife found in this wooded valley on the edge of Exmoor.

Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of North Devon, where the rolling hills offer a breathtaking view of Exmoor, lies a smallholding and riding stables committed to harmonising equine care with environmental stewardship.

Traditionally, horse paddocks are synonymous with short, overgrazed land that often lacks vitality for wildlife. However, the forward-thinking landowners in this idyllic setting are determined to transform their acreage into a haven for both horses and biodiversity.

Collaborating with Protect Earth, their ambitious plan spans the next two years, aiming to introduce more than 700 trees, cultivate extensive wildlife-friendly hedging, and establish enchanting wildflower meadows.

This undertaking reflects a dedication to sustainable land management and signifies a harmonious coexistence between equestrian pursuits and the flourishing natural world.

tCO2 after 50 years: 238 Species planted: Hornbeam, Hazel, Common Oak, Goat Willow, Rowan, Alder, Downy Birch, Small-leaved Lime, Hawthorn, Aspen, Wild Cherry, Guilder Rose, Crab Apple, Blackthorn