Community Orchard

**Community Orchard **
MASTT are in the process of creating a community orchard in Slaithwaite, thanks to funding from Kirklees Council.
It will be located in a field in close proximity to the
Rotcher picnic site. We plan to plant a variety of trees including
apples and pears, with a selection of soft fruit bushes. However it may
be 2-3 years before the trees produce edible fruit but the site can
still be used by MASTT for outdoor events.
 
There are many benefits that can be achieved by planting
fruit trees within a community. Not only will these trees produce
wonderful fresh fruit, they will provide an area for people to relax
and feel closer to nature. They can provide focal points and improve
green spaces in the ‘urban jungle’ that have too readily become areas
for ‘development’.
 
Orchards were once widespread across the Birtish Isles,
with each area having native varieties but now they seem to be few and
far between., With supermarkets offering cheap standardised fruit
imported from other countries, the interest in local fruit growing has
dwindled, however the benefit to us will be the ability to pick the
fruit when we choose, directly from the tree. However a select few keep the spirit alive by recognising remaining orchards by celebrating Apple Day on the 21st October. 
 
MASTT believe that everyone within the community can have access to
these fruits at no cost but until the trees are matured please do not
enter the site without a member of MASTT being present.
 
If anyone is interested in becoming involved
with this project please post a message on this board stating your
interest or by emailing MASTT on info@mastt.org
 
We are always looking for volunteers to help with
planting, clearing and general support. Please do get in touch if you
are interested in getting involved. See below for pictures of the site before the brambles were cleared and photos of the planting of the trees - PICS