Bluesky National Tree Map data supports vital conservation work at Blenheim Palace

The detailed aerial images are providing conservationists with an insight into the number of trees on the estate, as well as how the woodland canopy is changing over time on the grounds around the Palace, famed for being the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill.

As well as housing Europe’s largest concentration of ancient oak trees, more recent conservation work includes a tree planting initiative over a 150-hectare site, making it the largest tree planting site in southern England.

Specialists are also applying tree canopy cover, height and location data from Bluesky’s unique National Tree MapTM (NTMTM). This dataset, which captures data for all trees 3 metres and taller in Great Britain, is being used to analyse the age and type of different woodlands as well as to track past and future changes.

David Gasca, Head of Natural Capital at Blenheim Palace, said: ““Knowing where our oldest trees are located means we are able to better tell the story of the estate’s natural history.

“Pinpointing locations through the aerial data means we can direct specialists to the most important locations in our woodlands and develop plans to protect and enhance them in future management and planting strategies.”

The data details how tree coverage has changed on the estate over time.