The stump of the landmark Sycamore Gap tree near Hadrian's Wall in Northumberland, England, is showing signs of regrowth after the beloved sycamore was illegally cut down on Sept. 28, 2023, in an act that sparked national outrage.
Here's what to know
According to ITV News, the National Trust says a dense circle of fresh shoots has emerged around the stump, encouraging walkers and conservationists.
The charity said the shoots have reached roughly two to three feet in height, suggesting the fenced-off area may be helping the stump recover.
"Three years after the Sycamore Gap tree was cut down, the tree stump that was left behind is fighting back," the caption of a TikTok video by the outlet said.
The sycamore was illegally cut down in a storm on Sept. 28, 2023, after Daniel Graham and Adam Carruthers, who were sentenced to four years in prison, came from Cumbria to fell it.
By the time it was destroyed, the tree had stood for more than a century and was a familiar destination for visitors, prompting outrage well beyond Northumberland.
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Andrew Poad, general manager for the National Trust at Hadrian's Wall, said, "These flourishing shoots are really encouraging and show that the special measures we've taken, including reducing soil compaction around the roots and limiting human disturbance, are paying off."
More background
The new growth offers a visible sign of recovery after a very public loss.
The National Trust has also said it has raised saplings from seeds recovered at the site, and ITV News reported that arts projects were launched as well.
What's being done?
After the felling, the area around the stump was fenced to give specialists a chance to assess whether it might recover. With fewer visitors disturbing the roots and less foot traffic around the base, that strategy now seems to be helping.
The National Trust says it is continuing to monitor the stump, and rangers will decide how to manage the site as the new growth develops.
"We're grateful to all the visitors who, through the care they are taking, are supporting our efforts to protect the tree and give it the best possible chance to thrive," Poad said, according to ITV News. "But for now, we're filled with hope by the way nature is taking its course."
Where can I learn more?
Sycamore Gap is part of a wider fight to protect cherished trees and help damaged landmarks recover. These stories cover work around the site as well as other cases involving historic or threatened trees in Britain, Australia, Tanzania, and California.
• At Hadrian's Wall, crews used a remarkable paving method while seedlings and saplings were raised.
• Across Britain, advisers say protecting ancient trees preserves irreplaceable genetics and cultural history.
• In Western Australia, residents were devastated after an 800-year-old peppermint tree was destroyed.
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