Reading Tree Wardens plant, protect and promote local trees. We work in partnership with Reading Borough Council, local businesses and charities, resident groups and of course the general public - you!
We are part of a national network of volunteer Tree Wardens who are working to champion trees.
Reading Borough Council’s Tree Strategy (published March 2021) describes the importance of our trees:
“The benefits of trees are many. Environmental benefits include absorbing carbon dioxide, improving air quality, reducing flooding, shading and sheltering to reduce urban temperatures, providing and improving wildlife habitats and a movement network and reducing noise. There are also aesthetic benefits that make our environment more enjoyable, as trees contribute to local character, make up a valued part of the historic environment, enhance privacy and add greenery and colour. These factors all help to contribute to better mental and physical health.
Trees have historically been an intrinsic part of Reading, with street tree planting and tree planting within open spaces a particular feature of the Victorian and
Edwardian expansion of the town. Reading has a significant tree stock, in particular in its parks, school grounds, housing areas and along its highways. There is an extensive network of woodlands within the Borough, often on elevated ridgelines, and trees are also a key element of the perimeters of the flood meadows of the Thames and Kennet, as well as the railway corridors.”
As tree wardens we invite everyone to enjoy our trees and green spaces, and we hope that you will join us in looking after trees in Reading.
For more information and for upcoming events please follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
You are also welcome to email us at rtwn2011@gmail.com and we can add you to our distribution list for upcoming events.