The second Tree Conference was held at the Merlin Theatre in Frome. In 2018, pre-pandemic, Frome had this amazing buzz, with the work of the Independent Town Council, the Steiner Academy and a flush of people drawn to the rural town.
Frome has a strong textiles heritage and regional character. The wisdom from trialling flatpack democracy, restoring the ancient Selwood Forest and speaking up for the inherent rights of the river Frome wove a strong regional voice into the programme.
Speakers included internationally important scientific research, land management practices and creative youth movements.
Thank you so much to all the volunteers, speakers, audience and supporters.
A story that unveiled itself during the day
Dr Bidartondo went through his team’s research into causes of forest ill health. The results of testing 40 variables identified excess nitrogen in the soils as a critical causal factor. Then Isabella Tree’s experience and research around wilding included the conversion of WW2 ammunitions factories shifting to producing chemicals for use on farms including nitrogens.
Mary Reynolds invited us to re-imaging how we relate to forests in the creative arts leading into poignant sharing from the youth of Wendy Davis Andover United schools project. The practical examples and innovation from Andy Egan, Teresa Gitonga, Peter MacFaddyan, Julian Height and Ayana Young landed us into a reading of the Sarayaku’s Living Forest Declaration then a lively and powerful panel discussion.
