Still time to vote on Scotland’s tree

We’ve a national sport and a national drink or two but we don’t have a national tree. Until now!

Thousands have responded to the Scottish Government consultation on whether we should have a national tree and which species it should be.

And the good news is, it’s not too late to have your say the consultation, backed by bodies like Forestry Commission Scotland and The Woodland Trust, is open until December 3.

James McDougall of Forestry Commission Scotland said: “If you were to ask anybody what’s so special about Scotland’s landscape I bet trees would make up part of the answer.

“The people of Scotland have an affection for trees, woodlands and forests. A national tree could be a powerful symbol to help show how important they are to us.

“We don’t have a national tree but we could be the generation to put that right and what better time than the end of the Year of Natural Scotland?

“Let’s put our stamp on history.

“The consultation is a great opportunity for schools to get involved, too. We’d like to hear from teachers who could use the national tree as a fun way for pupils to learn about the importance of trees and how to identify different species.”

Scotland boasts a wonderful variety of trees, woods and forests. Some of our trees are native, while others were introduced for the tourism, recreation or the timber industry.

All fulfil vital roles in our environment and lock away millions of tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere.

The idea for a national tree came from a member of the public, Alex Hamilton, who submitted his idea to the government.

He said: “Most countries have a national tree. It’s a statement that we value our woodlands and think they’re important.”

Have your say at consult.scotland.gov.uk/forestry-commission-scotland/national-tree