Many of Bowland’s beautiful old trees are nearing the end of their lives, whether that be through old age, storm damage or disease. In order to safeguard the unique character of the Bowland landscape, Champion Bowland and the Forest of Bowland National Landscape Partnership have recently launched a new initiative - Landmark Trees - to ensure successor trees are ready.
Landmark Trees can be found in hedgerows, parkland, farmland or on a village green and may be native or non-native species. Wherever they are, they are important to people as well as to the landscape and provide a living link to the 'forest' of Bowland in the National Landscape's name.
The project is asking local people to nominate prominent trees that are important to them and inviting local businesses to donate the funds to plant their successors. By supporting this scheme, sponsors are making an investment that will pay dividends for decades to come.
The project was officially launched in March 2019 when the Assheton Arms (part of the Seafood Pub Company) sponsored the planting of a field maple in Downham village. The land is owned by Downham Estate and the Estate will care for the tree going forward.