Prince Harry visits The Queen's Commonwealth Canopy Project at Epping Forest

Prince Harry has visited Epping Forest to view the Wood Pasture Restoration Project which is part of The Queen's Commonwealth Canopy (QCC).

During his visit His Royal Highness was able to learn about the area's natural and historic heritage and he was able to witness the work that is being undertaken as part of the QCC project.

Park Rangers introduced Prince Harry to Longhorn cow Lucky, who grazes across the forest using satellite collars and fenceless grazing technology. He also chatted to those who are involved with ancient tree conservation work and learnt how the site is being preserved and managed for generations to come.

The QCC was launched in 2015 in partnership with The Royal Commonwealth Society and is a conservation initiative that aims to create a global network of indigenous forests to benefit communities and wildlife. 

Epping Forest, London's largest open space, was dedicated to the QCC in 2016 by The City of London Corporation.

Home to over a million trees Epping Forest is steeped in Royal History. It was opened in 1882 by Queen Victoria when she made a public address under the Queen's Oak Tree. She dedicated the forest to "the use and enjoyment of my people for all time".

Prince Harry also met some local school children who frequently use the park and are involved in a range of conservation activities. His Royal Highness helped identify plant health problems and took part in an activity called pond dipping, which is all part of The QCC's aim to promote the value of native forests.

Finally Prince Harry, together with school children, planted a tree under the Queen's Oak to mark the Epping Forest Queen's Commonwealth Canopy. 

Prince Harry previously supported the QCC during his visit to the Caribbean. He visited projects in Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada.

The forestry sites across the Commonwealth dedicated to the QCC will be preserved in perpetuity to mark Her Majesty's lifetime of service to the Commonwealth.

About The Queen's Commonwealth Canopy

Since the launch 21 Commonwealth counties have dedicated forestry projects or are planting new forests, with another 10 countries in the process of finalising submissions.

In November 2016 The Queen hosted a reception at Buckingham Palace to acknowledge the countries that have dedicated projects by presenting High Commissioners with a certificate of QCC partnership.

Find out more about The Queen's Commonwealth Canopy.