In 2020 we planted 400 oaks, scots pine, hawthorne, hazel and birch - our Forest Ridge had begun.
About Us
A few years ago, a group of us started dreaming about buying a wood to live in, grow things and form a community.
We looked at some awesome places, but realised that to fulfil our plans we'd have to cut down a lot of trees.
So we decided to grow a wood instead on some land we got near Thornhill in Dumfries & Galloway, Scotland, inviting people to come and be part of our vision for a future forest, a growing community and a place for building something for tomorrow….
2021
In 2021, we planted another 200 saplings: holly, elder, sycamore, beech, bird cherry, rowan, alder, and willow, alongside a slope of pinewood. All were native to the South of Scotland and locally sourced. The forest began to grow...
2022
The Forest Ridge Project became about more than just trees – important as they were. In 2022, we fenced off an area of land for growing vegetables and started our orchard with apple and soft fruit trees. We also began developing ideas for arts and education projects, all centered around the land and nature.
2023
By 2023, we had expanded our efforts, creating new, larger beds and experimenting with different vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, cucumbers, and peas, while also continuing to build on the successes of previous years.
2024
In 2024, we held our very first artists' gathering, a truly special time that included a foraging workshop and a team-building workshop. The artists who joined us came together to create a beautiful play in the woods, and we shared unforgettable evenings, filled with creativity, and delicious food around the warmth of the fire.
2025
This year we’re continuing to celebrate of creativity, nature, art, and community. We’re offering more outdoor projects, and participatory activities. We’ve also involved more local people in planning and developing our vegetable growing, working towards a fully functioning market garden.
Subscribe below to learn more.
Gallery
Welcome to the Forest Ridge Project gallery. Here, we grow food, host artist retreats, connect with our community, and share moments around the fire.
A Commitment to Sustainability
The Forest Ridge Project have joined the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere 'Proud Supporter' Charter.
The Biosphere, spanning Southwest Scotland, is a testament to sustainable living, where like-minded entities collaborate to protect our natural world.
We Pledge to Support the Following Principals:
Help to conserve the natural resources of the Biosphere
Support the economy to benefit people and nature
Promote cultural heritage and local products
Contribute to the health and wellbeing of the community
Develop knowledge, understanding and promote research
Raise awareness of the Galloway and Southern Ayreshire Biosphere
Let’s keep in touch
hello@theforestridgeproject.com
© 2024
