Trees Moved to Challenge Golfers

Press Releasein Golf
treemoving Arboricultural contractors, Nature First have successfully moved 50 semi-mature trees at Brickhampton Golf Complex in Gloucester using their 'Big John 65' tree spade imported from America earlier this year.

The trees, which are mainly oaks, were originally planted in 1995 as small whips and now the course owner wants to move them out of the more densely wooded areas into prime positions on the fairway to tighten up the course and make it more challenging for the players.

The critical factors, however, were to keep the course open whilst the tree moving and replanting took place and also to avoid damage to the fairways from the 17 tonne machine. Gloucestershire firm Nature First used their new tree spade, equipped with low pressure tyres to minimise ground damage, to ensure the work was completed in less than a week and with no significant disruption to the golfers.

The tree spade, which is the only one of its size in the country, uses sharp, armour metal blades which move into the soil one at a time under the root ball of the tree - completing the digging process in minutes. The frame protects and securely holds the tree during transportation, even over rough terrain.

At the new site for the tree, the machine simply manoeuvres into position, placing the root ball in the new hole which has been pre-dug with the same machine.

Terry Creed owner of Brickhampton Golf Complex, who personally oversaw the tree moving commented, "Moving these 50 semi-mature trees is all part of the annual landscaping of the course. We have a good relationship with Nature First who are helpful and responsive, understanding our requirements. The ability to move semi-mature trees so successfully has enabled the Complex to act as their own nursery - planting whips then moving them when they reach semi-maturity, saving money by not needing to buy semi-mature trees."

For further information, please contact Nature First, telephone 01452 731199 or Claire Card at Beacon Marketing Solutions, tel: 01452 883100 / 07966 498597.

Background

Nature First, based at Down Hatherley in Gloucestershire, provide a complete range of arboricultural services including tree moving, tree care and soil de-compaction. They specialise in the supply of semi-mature trees for all types of planting schemes. Trees are sourced from all over the world and also from their own extensive nursery.

Trading for over 14 years and employing 20 people, Nature First is one of the UK's largest arboricultural companies working for local authorities, contractors and landscape architects as well as private individuals. Well respected for their technical expertise and practical knowledge, the company is regularly called upon for advice on difficult situations. Their innovative approach has kept them at the forefront of this rapidly changing market.

The Brickhampton Golf Complex was established in 1995 when 18,500 whips were planted over the 200 acre green field site. By continually planting new trees each year, the course is now home to approximately 25,000 trees. A team of eight Greenkeepers tend the course and care for the trees, ensuring the course is open for play to the 850 members all year round.
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