Meath residents turn out in force for tree handout day
A large number of landowners, farmers, schools, and community groups in Meath have taken part in a project aimed at enhancing local biodiversity and supporting climate action.
The biodiversity initiative, called “Hare’s Corner,” drew a passionate response from the public at a recent tree handout day in Navan last week.
Hare’s Corner, run by the Burren-based landscape charity Burrenbeo Trust, was first introduced in Meath in 2024 to help landowners make more space for nature through creation of habitats.
The name comes from an old farming expression for an awkward or rough corner of a field that was left to nature.
Applications for the 2025 project saw 197 submissions, resulting in 602 proposed biodiversity actions across the county.
Once all participants have planted their trees, the initiative will have supported 309 projects, including mini woodlands, wildlife hedges, heritage orchards, and wildlife ponds. Applicants also received bespoke “Plans for Nature” and “Plans for Water” to guide their environmental efforts.
Reflecting on the event, Lee Worrel of the Burrenbeo Trust said: “With over 7,500 native woodland and hedge trees given out along with 415 heritage apple trees - it was and will continue to be a wonderful success for County Meath.”
Ben Malone, Biodiversity Officer at Meath County Council, added: “The successful turnout once again highlights the growing public engagement in Meath with practical biodiversity initiatives, as well as strong support for native tree planting projects championed by both the Meath County Council’s Biodiversity Action Plan and the Climate Action Plan.”
Hare’s Corner continues to encourage individuals, families, and communities across Meath to take part in nature-friendly actions that create lasting environmental benefits.