Young trees planted to expand temperate rainforest

Volunteers have planted 800 young trees in a bid to expand one of the South West's last remaining temperate rainforests.

The saplings have been planted at Dartmoor's Wistman's Wood National Nature Reserve.

The project was led by volunteers from Natural England, in partnership with the Duchy of Cornwall, Moor Trees and the Woodland Trust.

The work follows the planting of 450 saplings at the site in March 2025.

The planting took place within fenced plots, which are designed to protect young saplings.

Emma Magee, head of communities and nature on Dartmoor at The Duchy of Cornwall, said: "We are delighted to have been able to return to Wistman's Wood and to be working with partners including Natural England and Moor Trees to continue this important work.

"The continued restoration of this iconic woodland reflects the Duchy's commitment to building and enhancing nature-rich landscapes.

"Expanding and strengthening a rare temperate rainforest isn't a one-off intervention, it requires steady, long-term effort."