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Volunteers Plant 800 Trees to Expand Dartmoor's Wistman's Wood Rainforest

Volunteers planted 800 young trees at Dartmoor's Wistman's Wood to expand one of the South West's last temperate rainforests, continuing restoration efforts begun in 2025.

·2 min read
The Duchy of Cornwall A picture of someone planting seeds into the grass. There is a large silver spade in the ground.

Tree Planting to Expand Temperate Rainforest

Volunteers have planted 800 young trees as part of an effort to expand one of the South West's last remaining temperate rainforests.

The saplings were planted at Wistman's Wood National Nature Reserve on Dartmoor.

The Duchy of Cornwall A picture of a large area of grass. There is a number of people walking around the area.
The planting scheme is part of a long-term project to expand the wood, experts say

This initiative was led by volunteers from Natural England in collaboration with the Duchy of Cornwall, Moor Trees, and the Woodland Trust.

The planting follows a previous effort in March 2025, when 450 saplings were introduced to the site.

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The new trees were planted within fenced plots designed to protect the young saplings from damage.

Commitment to Long-Term Restoration

Emma Magee, head of communities and nature on Dartmoor at The Duchy of Cornwall, commented on the project:

"We are delighted to have been able to return to Wistman's Wood and to be working with partners including Natural England and Moor Trees to continue this important work.
The continued restoration of this iconic woodland reflects the Duchy's commitment to building and enhancing nature-rich landscapes.
Expanding and strengthening a rare temperate rainforest isn't a one-off intervention, it requires steady, long-term effort."

These efforts highlight a sustained approach to conserving and expanding this rare ecosystem.

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This article was sourced from bbc

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