Oakstrong

The Wild House of Oakstrong protects Lincolnshire's woodlands and is symbolised by the oak tree. Oaks can grow 100ft high and can live for over 1000 years. Oak wood is one of the strongest of all woods, so strong that great beams of oak were used to create the structure of Lincoln Cathedral. They also support more lifeforms than any other tree! People have long revered the oak, believing it had magical properties. It was the sacred tree of Zeus, King of the Gods!

Woodlands contain more wildlife than any other habitat. Nowhere else can you experience such a full immersion in nature as in a woodland. Ancient woodlands are particularly important. These are woods over 400 years old, many date back thousands of years. Because they have existed for so long they have developed the richest ecosystems, full of different species.

The UK has one of the least amount of woodlands in Europe and Lincolnshire has one of the least amount of woodlands in the UK. More woodlands can only be a good thing. They absorb CO2, helping mitigate climate change, reduce flood risk, provide wonderful refuges for wildlife and have been shown to greatly improve the physical and mental well-being of people who visit them.

If you have been chosen to be an Oakstrong Protector then your role is to raise awareness of woodlands and their importance to people and wildlife. Tell your friends and family about woodlands, the magic of oaks and why everyone should visit woodlands and plant more trees! Follow the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust Facebook page to support nature conservation in Lincolnshire.

Click the image below to download your Oakstrong badge!