Nearly 3,500 free trees have found new homes across Staffordshire this winter, after a series of community giveaway events.
Residents from Stone, and across the county, turned out to collect saplings, with households encouraged to plant them in gardens and green spaces to support wildlife and strengthen local biodiversity.
The initiative was delivered by Staffordshire County Council and the Staffordshire Sustainability Board, with events held at locations across the county in recent months.
Native species chosen to support wildlife
Those taking part were able to choose from a mix of native species including hawthorn, rowan, silver birch, crab apple, hazel and whitebeam.
All were selected for their value to birds, insects and other wildlife, as well as their ability to thrive in local conditions.
While exact figures for Stone have not been released, residents here will have been among those collecting trees, with many local gardens, allotments and small community spaces already playing a role in supporting pollinators and birdlife.
Nigel Yates, chair of the Staffordshire Sustainability Board and cabinet member for climate change and environment at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, said:
“Supporting residents to play their part in improving Staffordshire’s environment is incredibly important to us. The tree giveaway is a fantastic example of how, by working together, we can make small changes that add up to a significant impact.
“Planting a tree today helps create a healthier county for future generations, and I’m delighted to see so many residents getting involved.’”
Andrew Mynors, vice chair of the board and cabinet member for connectivity at Staffordshire County Council, added:
“It’s been fantastic to see such strong support from our communities. Every tree planted helps make Staffordshire greener, healthier and more attractive, and it’s great to know these trees will be enjoyed by future generations.
“Our residents have shown real pride in their local area, and we’re grateful to everyone who got involved.”
Interactive map to track new trees
Residents who collected a tree are being encouraged to log its location on an interactive online map.
The idea is to build a visible picture of how many trees have been planted across Staffordshire, and where, creating a shared sense of progress as the saplings begin to establish.
The giveaway forms part of wider environmental ambitions for the county, with local authorities aiming to improve green spaces and strengthen natural habitats over time.
If you collected a tree locally, you can add it to the map and see how the county’s growing canopy is taking shape.
