Cricket bat willows ready to be harvested
For over 30 years we have been growing a strain of hybrid Willow, derived from the White Willow (Salix alba) at Thorpe Meadows, a location perfectly suited for this type of tree. This strain of willow is the only species created to grow the best timber quality for cricket bats, which is why they are called ‘cricket bat willows’. The trees grow quickly to produce an even grain and a good weight, whilst also being strong and durable.
These trees are now mature and so the time has come to harvest them to make cricket bats for the next generation of cricket players to enjoy. Contractors will be coming into the Park to fell these trees the week beginning 6th October.
Why do we harvest the trees and sell the timber?
Once the trees are felled, the timber is sold to manufacturers of cricket bats. This important income is vital for our self-financing charity, Nene Park Trust. We are the custodians of Thorpe meadows in Peterborough, and profits from this commercial crop allow us to keep maintaining and improving this area, as well as the wider Nene Park.
Are all the parts of the felled trees used?
None of the tree goes to waste. Once the trees have been cut into appropriate lengths for cricket bats, any remaining pieces are chipped. This leftover material then goes to a biomass energy plant and burned as a renewable energy source.
Will the trees be replaced?
Yes! We will plant twice as many replacement trees in the next few months ready to be grown as another commercial crop to be harvested when they reach their maturity in 15-20 years or when their stem has reached its optimal diameter for producing cricket bats.
What about carbon storage from the trees?
A high proportion of the carbon locked into the trunk stays in solid state by becoming the cricket bats they produce. The new replacement trees will grow rapidly and will continue to absorb carbon in this area.
For any further questions, please get in touch with the team on visitor.services@neneparktrust.org.uk or 01733 234193
