Extra trees to provide boost for Suffolk rivers
A two year project to improve the River Gipping and its tributaries is complete
Last updated 24th Mar 2021
Almost 900 trees have been planted alongside rivers in Suffolk.
The Environment Agency and Suffolk Wildlife Trust project aims to improve river habitat diversity and the water environment.
Planting has taken place over the past two winters along seven kilometres of the River Gipping, two kilometres along the River Rat at the Museum of East Anglian Life, and a further one along the Somersham watercourse at Little Blakenham.
The areas were chosen due to the lack of existing tree cover.
They are expected to help fish and invertebrate populations by providing shade throughout the summer months, which will also help control plant growth in some locations.
As the trees develops, they will create bankside habitats for birds, bats, otters and invertebrates, while the roots will help improve water quality and provide habitats for fish.
Naomi Boyle, Environment Programme Officer at the Environment Agency, said: "We are thrilled to have worked with Suffolk Wildlife trust on this key project which will help our rivers adapt to the changing climate.
"We would like to thank the 13 landowners who made this work possible by letting us plant on their land.
"We hope to continue this work elsewhere in Suffolk so if you own land with river frontage and have an interest in improving its biodiversity then please do get in touch."
Suffolk Wildlife Project Manager, Penny Hemphill, added: "It has been a pleasure working with Environment Agency for the last two years delivering this project.
"Riparian tree planting is key to delivering natural flood management as well as enhancing sites for biodiversity and conservation. Many thanks to all the landowners for coming on board."
Anyone who owns land along a Suffolk river and wants to improve biodiversity is asked to email naomi.boyle@environment-agency.gov.uk.