Woodland Wonders

Yorkshire Dales Millennium Trust (YDMT) is being supported by players to create new woodlands as part of its Together for Trees campaign.

Launched in 2018, the appeal aims to support the planting of 100,000 trees over a two-year period, to help people, wildlife and landscapes to thrive. Support from players of People's Postcode Lottery has helped YDMT plant 78 new woodlands across Nidderdale and the Yorkshire Dales National Park. The woodlands have multiple benefits, creating a beautiful natural environment for people to enjoy whilst helping to combat forest degradation and climate change.

Enriching The Environment

Trees allow wildlife to prosper, with a single oak tree able to support up to 284 insect species. Sadly, 80% of forests worldwide have been destroyed or irreparably degraded. In the Yorkshire Dales, native broadleaf woodland cover is under 3%. Remaining woodlands are under threat from disease and poor management and many species of wildlife that rely on trees for survival are at risk.

YDMT is committed to re-establishing woodlands to allow vibrant wildlife habitats to thrive. Through its work, the organisation is enriching outdoor environments and improving lives for animals and people alike. 

Connecting With Nature

YDMT helps young carers, refugees, asylum seekers, and those who live with social isolation, disabilities and mental health problems, to access the Yorkshire Dales and enjoy the wellbeing benefits of time spent in nature. These groups have been involved in planting trees and will be given the opportunity to continue caring for them in the future.

Mike Appleton from the Trust said, "We know how important planting trees is if we are to tackle the climate crisis. But access to these wild spaces is really crucial if we are to connect people with nature. Together for Trees has brought groups to the Dales that would have never visited before - and involved them in direct climate changing action.

"Player support has been vital in allowing us to reach our target and create beautiful woodland that everyone can enjoy. It has also meant we can look to the future and extend the appeal even further, planting an additional 26 hectares of new woodlands over the next two years.

"As a thank you to players, we will dedicate 1,000 trees at a new woodland on Swinesett Hill near Hawes."

Players of People's Postcode Lottery have raised over £2.5 Million for YDMT over the last 12 years. This funding allows the charity to continue to deliver inspirational projects that make a big difference to the people, landscape and wildlife of the Dales.

Supporting Thousands Of Good Causes

Players have raised £700 Million so far for thousands of amazing Charities like YDMT. By playing, you can add your support, while being in with the chance to win fantastic Prizes every day. Check out How It Works, and if you're feeling lucky, sign up to play.