A REMARKABLE project in which volunteers surveyed more than 900 trees around Petersfield has been shortlisted for a county award.
The Community Tree Survey managed by the Petersfield Society could also win a second as it’s been nominated for a public vote by the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England (CPRE).
The project is one of five schemes which have been shortlisted for the Community and Voluntary title at the CPRE Hampshire Awards.
It’s also been nominated for the CPRE Hampshire’s Choice Award with the public being asked to vote for their favourite of 19 finalists.
The Community Tree Survey was set up to establish the importance of trees to the town’s wellbeing and physical and mental health.
The ambitious scheme, which was born from the campaign to save the trees in The Square from the axe, was a mammoth undertaking and involved more than 40 volunteers.
“The survey wouldn’t have happened without the community as we had 43 volunteers and it was huge as we surveyed about 900 trees,” said Petersfield Society Chairman Graham Brown. “We’ve had interest from the government, as we’ve had two secretaries of state come down to speak to us, the local MP and we’re making sure Michael Gove and Defra know about the survey.
“We’re also hoping to see the new government tree champion and, not only that, but the survey was supported and sponsored by Petersfield Town Council, East Hampshire District Council, the South Downs National Park Authority and the Forestry Commission.
“They all gave us considerable help but it was a real community scheme and I think that’s why we were chosen as finalists.”
The final will take place in September while the winner of the Choice Award, which will receive £500, will also be announced on the night.
To vote for Petersfield’s Community Tree Survey visit www.cprehampshire.org.uk