On a sunny day in March, students from the University of Exeter joined members of the local community to plant trees along the fenceline at Duckes Meadows playing fields, working together on conservation of urban woody habitats.
An impressive 350 trees were planted, establishing a new tree line along the North fenceline of Duckes Meadow and creating valuable habitats for wildlife. A variety of native species were planted, including: oak, hawthorn, blackthorn, hazel, wild cherry and crab apple trees. Over time, they will grow and enhance the area’s biodiversity and resilience, providing a wide range of resources for pollinators and connect the existing woodlands and hedges, making more space for nature!
As one of the main sites for University sports fixtures, Exeter Sports students were invited to take part in the tree planting, working with the University’s Sustainability Team and Grounds Team. The event was advertised as part of the newly launched Exeter Sports Sustainability League, where teams were competing throughout March to earn points aligned with a range of sustainability objectives.
It was great to see members of the Climbing Club, Women’s Football, and Cycling teams get involved, learn about nature, and contribute to the management of urban woodlands for biodiversity. Extra points in the Sustainability League were awarded for the best photo taken with a tree, which was won by Women’s Football team. Additionally, the club with the highest attendance also earned extra points, with the Climbing Club bringing over 18 members to take part.
Students reflected positively on the day, highlighting both the practical skills they developed and the emotional benefits of taking part. Several noted that they learned how to plant a tree for the first time and gained an appreciation for the ‘care it takes to plant them’ with one participant sharing ‘I learnt how to plant a tree as I have never really gardened before’. Others emphasised their new understanding of the simplicity and accessibility of getting involved with tree planting, as well as the rewarding feeling that “we are giving back to nature and to the community”. One student described the day as ‘a nice opportunity to reconnect with nature and reset their minds’ while another reflected that it was a “lovely to be outside, doing good for the environment and making new friends”.
Overall, the day had a strong positive impact, with students reporting that it ‘boosted their mood’ and left them feeling “very positive, very happy and very relaxed”, as well as more connected with their local environment and community.
It was a fantastic example of seeing both students and the local community working together to plant trees and make a lasting environmental impact.
I’ll definitely be back to check how my favourite oak tree is doing in 10 years’ time!
Blog written by Charlotte Voyce, AU Sustainability Officer