Conservation Work with the Wave of Friendship

In May this year, one Wave of Friendship volunteer spent a fantastic week restoring the Caledonian forests in the Scottish Highlands.

'I signed on to take part in one of Trees for Life's excellent conservation work weeks, which brings together a group of different people in order to help restore the ancient Caledonian Forest.

'Having to bunk together in a cosy dormitory, as well as prepare and eat meals together, you soon bond with the other volunteers that are on your week. We got to stay at Plodda Lodge, one of TfL's field bases which is set in the woods of Strathglass - a far cry from the busy streets of Hackney!

'We spent four of the days planting trees (mostly Scots pine) in remote Glen Cannich, and we also got to spend one day in the tree nursery at Plodda, transplanting trees, digging out and adding compost to beds, and potting out Aspen root cuttings.

'The week was hard work, but a truly rewarding experience. The Highlands were stunning and remote, and it was exciting to be part of the conservation process. All of us got on really well, and were really sorry to have to say goodbye to each other at the end of the week. I can't wait to go back!'