Changes in the number of non-woodland trees in Britain since 1945

Allison, Hilary; Peterken, G. F.

Changes in the number of non-woodland trees in Britain since 1945

Resource type

Journal article

Creator (person)

Allison, Hilary

Peterken, G. F.

Date published

March 27, 2012

Abstract

The Forestry Commission census of 1980 shows an increase in the number of non-woodland trees in Britain since their census of 1951. Other surveys show a substantial decrease in the number of trees on farmland and in hedgerows over the same period. This paper examines the methods of the censuses and surveys; concludes that the decline in the trees of farmed countryside has been offset by planting in urban areas and on highways; and considers that official satisfaction at these trends is unwarranted.