Trees and Woodlands | Woodland Heritage | Tree Species in the British Isles | Woodland Grant Schemes | Trees and the Law | Woodland Crafts | Pests and Diseases

The trees and woodlands of Leeds provide a much valued natural resource. The visual contribution they make to our urban and rural landscapes may seem obvious, as too is the richness and variety of the natural habitats that they provide. Many people take advantage of the quiet, peaceful refuge that our wooded areas provide, where we can rest and play, or simply enjoy a walk.

As our awareness of and concerns for environmental issues increases, we are becoming more aware of the less obvious benefits that trees bring to us, such as :

• the fact that they produce oxygen and lock up carbon dioxide
• the ability of leaves to "filter" out some of the harmful pollutants from the air that we breath
• the shelter and warmth that they provide from strong winds
• the shade and protection provided from direct sunlight
• the discovery of natural ingredients that contribute to the advancement of medicine
• the provision of fully sustainable raw materials for our construction and paper industries, plus the growing crafts industry
• the fact that their very presence just makes us feel better when we are feeling low

Trees give us these things, and much more, for free, asking nothing in return. However, if we are to continue to reap these benefits, we need to be aware that our trees need our help. They need to be protected from the pressures of modern living; cared for to ensure that their basic needs are not overlooked, neglected or abused. Above all, they need to be valued and appreciated by us all.

This section on Trees and Woodland takes a look at a variety of topics that together help to promote a deeper understanding of them and the work that is undertaken to ensure that they survive for future generations to enjoy.