Help uncover the wonder of trees with Treefest

The University of Derby, in partnership with Go Jauntly, National Forest and UK Treescapes, has launched a research study which aims to break new ground in understanding how the UK’s treescapes, a landscape including groups of trees, can benefit wellbeing.

Treefest is a research project where people can walk to help understand the benefits of trees. With a focus on the National Forest, the purpose of the project is to create tools and knowledge to inform the design of future treescapes for the benefit of future generations and the rest of the natural world.

Those wishing to take part in Treefest will need to download the free Go Jauntly app and walk one or more of the eight Treefest routes within the National Forest. These walks are in Calke, Dunstall, Jubilee Wood, Jackson’s Bank, Rosliston, Anslow, Robin Wood and Beacon Hill. A short in-app survey as part of each walk will provide the data which will be sent to the University of Derby for evaluation. 

Miles Richardson, Professor of Human Factors and Nature Connectedness at the University of Derby, said:

“Trees are part of most people’s lives, yet there is much to discover about how the different types, ages and locations affect our wellbeing. Through eight varied walks we hope to be able to see how standalone trees, older woodlands and new plantations contribute to wellbeing.”

Hana Sutch, CEO and Co-Founder at Go Jauntly said:

“We know that being connected with nature is good for you. Visits to green spaces can make you feel happier and healthier. But there is still more research to be done. For a sustainable future we need to expand our treescapes in the best way possible. We are proud to be supporting the University of Derby once again, plus the National Forest, for the Connected Treescapes research project.”

Heather Gilbert, Research & Evidence Manager at the National Forest Company, added:

“In the National Forest we aim to ensure our woodlands are benefitting both people and nature. This project will help us understand the impact our woodlands are having on the people that use them, as well as informing the design of future woodland creation.”

Go Jauntly is available to download on the App Store and the Play Store. The Treefest research walks are available in-app now.

Find out more about Treefest.