VOLUNTEERS learned traditional hedge-laying skills to transform field boundaries in the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park village of Marloes during National Tree Week.
The Park Authority’s Voluntary Wardens joined villagers to work on a hedge near the clock tower on Thursday, and next week they will be transforming an overgrown hedge at the Recreational Area.
National Park Ranger Hayley Barrett led the group, with help from Marloes resident and former Ranger Malcolm Cullen. The first session took place during National Tree Week, which is organised annually by The Tree Council, encouraging organisations and individuals around the UK to do something positive for their local trees and hedgerows.
Hayley said: “Hedge-laying is a traditional way of maintaining the hedge to create a secure boundary – in the past it would have been to keep livestock in or out.
“But it is also an excellent way of extending the life of the hedge. By cutting it at the bottom and creating a hedge using living, laid branches, it encourages new growth – it’s the same method we would use for coppicing trees.”
Hayley added: “It was a beautiful, calm day so it was great to be outside in the National Park learning a traditional conservation skill. Anyone who would like to have a go themselves – and help us to conserve the Park – is welcome to join us next time.”
The next hedge-laying session is at 10am on Thursday December 5th, meeting at Marloes Recreational Area.
Email [email protected] for more details.
The National Park Authority has its own Pembrokeshire Tree Wardens scheme in association with The Tree Council.
The scheme provides practical training to help in the care of local trees and to encourage community involvement through projects with local schools and groups.
To become a Tree Warden in Pembrokeshire you do not need specific skills, just a love of trees. To get involved call Mike Higgins or Celia Thomas on 0845 345 7275 or email [email protected]
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