Maldon District Council formally launched its tree warden scheme this week, as part of National Tree Week.

The council now has its own tree officer, and town and parish councils have each been asked to appoint one or more tree warden volunteers.

The volunteers will work with the councils in conserving and enhancing the environment and, so far, more than 30 have signed up.

"Trees, woodlands and hedgerows are very important," said district council landscape officer Nigel Cowlin.

"Trees, woodlands and hedges all provide vital habitats for wildlife, whether it is in countryside, villages or towns. They also act as air conditioning for the whole environment, removing harmful pollutants and providing oxygen for us to breathe."

Tree officer Lee Southwell, who previously worked in a similar role at Colchester Borough Council -- and before that as a tree surgeon -- will be involved in giving advice about tree preservation and trees on development sites, and helping with the council's own landscape conservation initiatives.

No prior experience is needed to become a tree warden volunteer, and the council has action packs and advice for anyone interested.

The tree warden launch coincided with National Tree Week planting events at Goldhanger and Heybridge at the weekend, and Maldon District Council hopes to provide more than 500 free trees to town and parish councils and plant a further 1,000 trees and more than 2,0000 woodland shrubs on land within its ownership.

By Amanda Brandon

Reporter's e-mail: amanda.brandon@essex-chronicle.co.uk

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