Hedgerows

The Waterways Trust Scotland is working to repair and improve the hedgerows along the length of the Lowland Canals to encourage more people to visit the waterway by making the towpath more attractive and inviting. Hedgerows are not only valuable and attractive landscape features but also provide important wildlife habitats. Birds, small mammals, amphibians, reptiles and insects are able to find a save home in amongst the hedgerow trees and wild flowers.

The hedgerows along the Union Canal were first planted in the 1820s when the canal was built. Over the last 180 years they have lost much of their value in terms of landscape, wildlife habitat and as a boundary. The Trust, together with BTCV and British Waterways Scotland, is working to make them more attractive for people walking, sailing and cycling along the canal.

At one event this year 1,058 trees, including Rowan, Hawthorn, Blackthorn, Guelder Rose, Dog Rose, Wild Cherry and Hazel, were planted on the Union Canal at Falkirk.

For more information on our hedgerow/ tree planting events please contact us.