The Ickleford Community Forest was, at the time of planting, Dream For Trees’ most ambitious project. 6,000 native trees planted on private land between Hitchin industrial estate and the village of Ickleford, Hertfordshire. There are three separate mini forests planted in different levels of preparation to see how growth differs over time. The landowner has opened up the space to the general public, generously offering help with maintenance. Protect Earth charity partnered with us offering both funding and support on the day. The forest’s first years were not without challenge. In the drought of 2023, 300 of the young trees did not survive. These have since been replaced, by many of the same volunteers, demonstrating the new community spirit that has sprung up alongside the mini forest.
The Ickleford Community Forest now stands as one of the largest and most established sites in our network. Special thanks to the dedication of Nick Moss who tended to the trees regularly and with devotion, nurturing them through their early years.
