Get involved
How it works
Getting involved with Heartwood is simple.
What to expect
Site visit
We'll come to you to understand your land, your needs and what's possible. Everything is tailored to your individual situation, whether that's a hedgerow, orchard, woodland or something else entirely.
Bespoke planting plan
Working with you, we'll design a planting scheme that suits your land and your landscape, choosing the right species and the right scale.
Funding secured
The scheme is fully funded. There is no cost to you. We handle the grant process on your behalf.
The planting process
We manage everything from start to finish, including sourcing and supplying the trees. You don't need to plant them yourself.
Ongoing support
After planting, our team remains on hand to ensure your trees establish well and continue to thrive for generations to come.
Ready to get started?
Get in touch with our friendly team and we'll talk you through everything.
There's no commitment and no obligation, just a conversation about what's possible for your land.
Speak to us
Frequently asked questions
Is it really free?
Yes, completely. The Heartwood scheme is fully funded, which means there is no cost to you at any stage. We secure the grant funding and handle all the paperwork on your behalf. All you need to bring is your land.
How much land do I need?
We can work with smaller plots than you might think. For hedgerow planting, the minimum length is 100 metres. For open ground, we require a minimum of 0.1 hectares. If you’re not sure whether your land meets the criteria, just get in touch and we’ll talk it through with you.
Do I have to plant the trees myself?
Not at all. We manage the entire process from start to finish, including designing the planting scheme, sourcing the trees and carrying out the planting. You don’t need any experience or equipment.
Will I lose productive land?
This is one of the most common concerns we hear, and it’s one we take seriously. Every scheme is designed around your individual needs and circumstances. Many of our planting types, such as hedgerows, shelterbelts and agroforestry, are specifically designed to work alongside productive farming rather than replace it.
What types of planting are available?
We offer a wide range of options, from hedgerows and farm shelterbelts to community orchards, riverside planting and larger woodland creation. Everything is tailored to your land, your landscape and your goals. The minimum requirement is 100 metres for hedgerows or 0.1 hectares for open spaces.
Am I responsible for looking after the trees once they're planted?
Our team remains on hand after planting to provide advice and support to help your trees establish well. We’ll make sure you have everything you need to look after them going forward.
Is my land in the Heartwood area?
Heartwood covers approximately 750km² across eastern and southern Derbyshire, including parts of Amber Valley, Bolsover, Chesterfield, Erewash, North East Derbyshire and South Derbyshire, as well as the city of Derby. If you’re not sure whether your land qualifies, just get in touch and we’ll be happy to check for you.
Read our Forest Plan
Find out more about our vision for Derbyshire’s Heartwood Community Forest, including our strategic aims, key policies and plans for delivery over the next 25 years.