Just north of Matlock, a busy family farm borders a main road and enjoys the presence of the River Amber below. A field above the river is actively grazed by sheep, but its position meant it was often boggy, and the landowner saw an opportunity to strengthen the soil with tree planting while keeping the land productive.
The farmer chose to work with Derbyshire’s Heartwood Community Forest to introduce trees in a way that supports the field rather than competing with it. A Woodland Creation Advisor from Heartwood designed sympathetic planting compartments within and across neighbouring fields, allowing grazing to continue around them and maintaining clear access for stock and machinery.
The scheme covers 0.89 hectares and includes 119 native trees; all protected with guards to ensure successful establishment. Species were selected for wet ground and long-term resilience and included oaks, downy birch and silver birch, holly, hawthorn, guelder rose, goat willow, field maple, aspen and more. As the trees mature, they will help stabilise soils, slow water movement through the field and support wildlife along the river corridor.
Derbyshire’s Heartwood Community Forest manages the project through our direct delivery scheme, overseeing design, contractors and planting. A local school joined the planting day, helping put trees in the ground, learning about farming life and strengthening ties between the school, the farm and the wider community. With costs covered through a free tree planting grant, this project shows how working land can be strengthened and better supported through well‑designed tree planting, backed by the right advice and expertise.
Project Impact
Trees & Landscape
119 native trees planted across 0.89 hectares, adding structure to a grazed field while keeping the land productive for agricultural use.
Biodiversity
A diverse species mix including oak, birch, willow, hawthorn and rowan creates new shelter and feeding opportunities for birds, insects and river-edge wildlife, strengthening the wider valley corridor over time.
Water & Soil
Trees selected for damp ground help improve soil condition, slow water movement through the field and support riverbank stability nearby, contributing to long-term flood resilience along the River Amber.
Farming Benefits
The planting compartment protects boggy ground, improves usability of the field and integrates smoothly with existing sheep grazing, supported by tree guards and a clear non-disruptive layout.
Community & Learning
A local school took part in the planting day, with students getting involved in planting trees and enjoying a memorable visit to see the farm’s lambs up close. The day helped to foster positive connections between the young people of Derbyshire and the working landscapes which surround them.
Farming Benefits
Fully funded through a Derbyshire’s Heartwood Community Forest grant, with Heartwood managing design, contractors and delivery from start to finish.
