A sense of wonder

Trees are the biggest and oldest living organisms that most of us will ever encounter. The sheer majesty of a Poplar tree with the sun striking its leaves and the sound of the wind rustling through them can be awe-inspiring.

The beauty of trees has a profound effect on us. People who are sick recover more quickly if they have a view of trees from their hospital bed. There is even an improvement with a picture of trees. Experiments suggest that car drivers whose journey to work takes them along roads or streets with trees arrive at work in a significantly less stressed state, and are able to start work far more quickly. It is as if we are connected by our most basic bodily systems to be aware of and appreciate the natural world. To climb to the top of a tall tree and see the view can be enormously thrilling, but not just for children!

Climate change, particularly drier springs and increased frequency of gales is likely to cause a change in the makeup of tree cover in Epping Forest District. Some trees, particularly Beech, may soon disappear entirely. The challenge will be to find different tree species that will grow and continue to provide a sense of awe and respect for nature.

Would a life without trees be worth living? Perhaps, but there is absolutely no doubt that trees add enormously to the richness of our environment and our lives in so many ways!