By Claire O’Neill
Claire O’Neill, President of Earthwise Aware (EwA), shares an important reminder about the need to protect our native trees. In the Fells, you may notice initials carved into the smooth bark of beech trees or birch trees with peeling bark stripped away. These actions can severely harm the trees, compromising their health and resilience.
Key ecological impacts of carving into thin-barked trees like birch and beech include:
Disease pathways: The incision creates a gateway for pathogens such as bacteria, and some harmful fungi, which can invade the tree’s vascular system causing decay and stunting its growth.
Insect damage: Open wounds can also attract pest insects, which may lay eggs and burrow beneath the bark, further compromising nutrient and water transport within the tree.
Reduced photosynthesis: Damage to the bark can hinder the tree’s ability to photosynthesize effectively, diminishing its growth and overall health.
Impact on wildlife: Birch and beech trees are critical to local wildlife. They offer food and shelter. Damage to these trees can disrupt the habitats of many animals.
Aesthetic damage: Carving into a tree can significantly detract from the natural beauty of the tree and its environment. It also sets a poor example for others, encouraging the spread of a damaging trend.
There are many ways to positively interact with our trees without damaging them and threatening their livelihoods. Each tree is a living entity, vital to the intricate tapestry of life. Trees are the lungs of our planet, harnessing sunlight and nurturing countless beings. Silent teachers, they offer lessons in resilience and interconnectedness. By caring for these natural gems, we ensure their survival and support the health of the entire ecosystem. Committing to leave no trace is a meaningful first step in preserving these steadfast guardians for generations to come.
For more information and resources about this, please see below:
- The Harmful Effects of Tree Carving
- Effects of Carving Initials on Beech Trees and Conservation Solutions
Additional resources
Simard, S. (2021). Finding the mother tree: discovering the wisdom of the forest (First edition). Alfred A. Knopf.
Wohlleben, P., Flannery, T. F., Simard, S., & Billinghurst, J. (2016). The hidden life of trees: what they feel, how they communicate: discoveries from a secret world. David Suzuki Institute ; Greystone Books Ltd.