Outside of Armagh, in a townland called Drumconwell, there exists an oak planting project. Set on nine acres of wonderful countryside, and overlooking the beautiful city of Armagh, is Rooted in Ireland. This is historical land indeed, the center of St Patrick's church, and an area steeped in tradition and folklore. Armagh is a modern city as well, boasting a modern 4 star hotel, numerous golf courses, and a wealth of visitor attractions. Many of the nearby villages are worthy of a visit just for their own attractions, and it is an area that, once visited, is never forgotten.
Ireland, and Armagh in particular, has a serious lack of trees. Once heavily forested, centuries of destruction have taken their toll, and Ireland is a sparse landscape, when it comes to trees. This is why Rooted in Ireland was born, and this is its' story.
Rooted in Ireland made its' debut in March 2006, and so far 1700 trees have been planted. Each tree is offered via the website as a memorial tree, or a dedication tree. People have been dedicating trees in memory of someone's life, as wedding gifts, or to mark the arrival of a baby into a family. Others have been dedicated by companies wishing to reduce their carbon footprint. It seems that everyone, regardless of where they are from, or what they do for a living, can see the benefit of planting an oak tree in Ireland; indeed it gives a whole new meaning to the expression, I've got roots in Ireland!
The directors have big plans for the project, and intend to ultimately plant 10,000 trees in total. The site will be developed as more trees are purchased, and will include a visitor centre in the style of a famine cottage, a viewing platform, and various decorative features in keeping with the surrounding countryside. The project is currently being considered for funding by various grant bodies including the EU peace fund, and will become an integral part of a visitor's experience when they arrive in Armagh. The directors have been heartened at the help, encouragement, and support that has been given to them by people from all walks of life. It seems that everyone can see the benefit of the Rooted in Ireland ethos, and this is perhaps summed up by the following Greek proverb: " A society grows great when people plant trees whose shade they will never sit in".
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Rooted in Ireland is an oak planting project in Ireland. They offer Memorial Trees, and also have an Irish Gifts online store.
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