Protecting Wendover’s Trees: Volunteer with the Ivy Team

Every 1st and 3rd Monday, the Ivy Volunteers meet at 10am at the Clock Tower before moving on to the Witchell where they cut ivy at the base of trees in line with the Tree Safety Report commissioned by the Parish Council. This protects trees from the ‘sail effect’ where heavy growth of ivy makes trees vulnerable to damage in strong wind. Ivy also weakens trees by denying  access to sunlight thus preventing photosynthesis.

The volunteers have been mainly working around the Witchell. Intervening early where ivy is starting to grow into trees, they’ve freed up elms that have grown from the root system of the trees that used to line Chapel Lane before falling victim to Dutch Elm Disease. The hawthorn beside the little stream has received a lot of attention because it is in such a prominent position. With the ivy removed it has been blossoming.

New volunteers are very welcome! No wildlife will be disturbed. We aim to protect trees and safeguard the public. Equipment and protective gear are provided.  

If you’d like to join the team at a session to see if this is for you, email Phoebe at estates@wendover-pc.gov.uk