As part of our wider Muir to Forth project our restoration of the John Muir Country Park by Dunbar has kicked off this month.
On the 50th anniversary of the Park, we are leading the project in collaboration with the East Lothian Council Ranger Service with support from the local landowner. The tree saplings have been kindly donated by The Woodland Trust through local tree specialist Elsoms Tree Nursery.
The project is aiming to replace a Scots Pine plantation, which suffered severe wind throw when storm Arwen struck in 2021, with a more diverse mixed woodland. The plantation was largely the product of post-war plantation forestry – uniform, even-aged, and often densely planted. While visually striking, such monocultures are inherently vulnerable to wind throw and disease, particularly in a coastal location like John Muir Country Park. Shallow root systems, uniform canopy structure, and exposure to coastal winds meant that when Storm Arwen struck, the trees fell in domino-like succession.
The project aims to support natural regeneration through the planting of a diverse mix of native broad-leaved trees and shrubs such as Silver Birch, Rowan, Oak, Field Maple, Hawthorn and Blackthorn. Native deciduous trees support a far greater range of wildlife than conifer plantations. Oaks alone can host thousands of species, from insects to birds and mammals. By diversifying the species mix, the enrichment planting will create multiple habitats and food sources for wildlife throughout the year.This species mix will also create greater structural diversity in the woodland, through the establishment of a high canopy, shrubby understory and rich ground flora, further increasing its resilience to the impacts of climate change.
So far approximately 700 trees have been planted thanks to the efforts of the local Countryside Volunteer group and three classes from West Barns Primary School. The group was joined by Lyn Jardine, local councillor for Dunbar and East Linton,and Paul McLennan MSP. Paul is a regular visitor to the Park and has been highly supportive of our efforts. The remaining 500 trees are due to be planted later this month by local volunteers from the community.
Mike Thornton, Balanced Horizons Senior Ecologist, has been impressed with the efforts so far. “Its been great to see the enthusiasm of tree planters from across the local community helped by the kinder weather. We are starting to fill some of the gaps left by Storm Arwen with a biodiverse mix of deciduous saplings. It is vital to get the support of the local community as these saplings will need regular care and attention over the next few years to allow them to establish and thrive”.
If you would like to volunteer and get involved with Balanced Horizon please reach out to hello@balancedhorizon.org