This project was first launched in 2020 to help protect the city’s ancient woodlands.
We’d like to say a huge thank you to Milton Keynes residents, schools and community groups who have collected acorns and grown saplings until they are strong enough to be planted. As a result of their hard work and dedication, 950 oak trees have now been planted in Howe Park, Shenley, and Linford Wood, with more planting to follow.
These oak trees, which could live up to 300 years, will help replace the huge amount of Ash trees lost to Ash Dieback disease. In some of our ancient woodlands, Ash makes up 60% of the tree canopy, so we need to plant these areas with native species to maintain these important habitats and ecosystems. Oak supports more life than any other native tree and by planting saplings, they are much more likely to grow into healthy trees.
A huge thank you to everyone who has helped with the projecct!
How can I take part?
This project will be re-launched in years when we see a bumper crop of acorns in the woodlands. When this occurs, we will share updates in Autumn asking for your support.
Are you caring for saplings?
Please continue to look after the saplings for 1 to 2 years, remembering to keep the soil moist throughout the spring and summer months. We will advertise drop-off dates each Winter to collect the saplings which are ready for planting.
If your saplings have now reached 20cm in height, please drop them off to Campbell Park Pavilion during the winter months. If possible, please drop the saplings off within opening hours (Monday - Friday, 9am - 5pm). Please note, we cannot return individual plant pots. However, after planting has taken place, you can pick up some pots from the office that have been returned if you wish.
Please note, this project has now ended but may re-launch in future years where we see a bumper crop of acorns. For questions or if you're still caring for saplings you'd like to return to us, please email outdoorlearning@theparkstrust.com for more information.
Check out our range of outdoor activities designed to help everyone get closer to nature and give local wildlife a helping hand.
