1 What are tree wardens?
Tree wardens are volunteers who play an active role in conserving trees and woods in their communities. The types of activities that tree wardens can get involved in include:
- surveying local trees and gathering information about them
- liaising with the local community
- protecting trees and woods
- organising activities, such as planting and caring for new trees.
We work with the Tree Council, which runs the scheme nationally, however it is coordinated by the County Council in partnership with local parish and town councils.
Supporting information
Find out more about what it's like to be a tree warden by reading our frequently asked questions and watching our short video.
Please note: the video uses YouTube's automated captions, which we have checked for accuracy.
2 How we support tree wardens
When you first become a tree warden we send out an induction pack that has all the information you need to get started.
We also provide:
- year round advice and support
- a tree warden handbook containing information on tree maintenance, getting the local community involved, organising events, tree planting and tree law
- a communication toolkit
- regular newsletters
- banners, display material and leaflets to help promote your work at events
- a training programme designed to give you the practical skills you need, the opportunity to meet and learn from experts and social events
- access to dedicated tree warden resources on the Tree Council website as well as information on its campaigns, such as National Tree Week
- information on available grants and funding.
Tree wardens are covered by our Conservation Volunteer Scheme insurance policy, but this does not cover working with power tools or other machinery. You may also be covered by your parish council's insurance but please check.
Whether you are a new or existing tree warden, our top tips should give you all the information you need to care for trees in your community.
Information for parish councils
This information will help parish councils get the best from their tree wardens.
3 Apply to be a tree warden
To become a tree warden you need to contact your local parish or town council. Once your application has been approved you will be sent an induction pack containing all the information you will need to get started.
Your parish or town council will support you in your work. They may provide ideas on what needs to be done in a certain area, or support you with more practical help, such as expenses, project funding, access to facilities or highlighting your work on its website or newsletter.