On 25 June, a team of Appleby volunteers spent their morning with tools in hand at Sherwin Nature Reserve in Warwick, clearing invasive species and overgrowth, and planting new endemic and native trees throughout the Reserve’s trail systems and adjacent tribe road. The Reserve is home to a multitude of endemic species and one of the few remaining tracts of natural inland water, an important sanctuary for the island’s bird population. About 25 employees participated in this fantastic cause, with many more signing up to volunteer for future clean-ups and tree planting; some employees even brought along family members to join in the restoration effort. The firm also made a $5,000 donation to assist in the Bermuda National Trust’s ongoing work to preserve Bermuda’s natural heritage.
Tim Faries, Bermuda Managing Partner and Chair of the Charities Committee said, “Appleby has deep roots in Bermuda as the location of our very first office over a century ago. Our charitable giving and community partnerships have always focused on many sectors, from youth, sports, education, women, health, arts and the environment. We honor and share in the Bermuda National Trust’s mission to protect the island’s natural heritage and we are delighted that our team’s contribution will allow the community to enjoy the picturesque beauty of the Sherwin Nature Reserve once again. Our intent with our partnerships and practices is to provide a positive environmental, social and governance (ESG) impact. The power of what many can accomplish together is abundant and we intend to continue to do our part for our beautiful island for many years to come.”
Riley O’Brien, an Associate in the Corporate department that initiated and led the team clean-up effort said, “Our involvement with the Bermuda National Trust provides a wonderful opportunity to help restore and preserve the sustainability of Bermuda’s natural environment—a resource that benefits us all and an initiative that aligns with local priorities. It is hugely rewarding that our team’s volunteer day assisted the Bermuda National Trust in resuming educational programs at the Reserve for Bermuda’s schoolchildren in September, and it truly demonstrates the power of teamwork.”
Myles Darrell, Conservation Officer, Bermuda National Trust said: “Thank you to the Appleby Team for this remarkable effort. After years of being closed to the public, the Sherwin Nature Reserve trails are now open and accessible for enjoyment by the community. The educational signs are all cleaned and some have been levelled for better use. The Tribe Road has been cleared of six cubic yards of storm debris, which is much appreciated by local residents. We managed to plant 12 Palmettos, 6 Olivewood, 3 Cedars, 2 Southern Hackberry, 5 Turnera, 5 Dianella, 12 Agapanthus, 3 Dockbush, 3 Seaside goldenrod and all of them were fertilized, mulched and looking very happy in their new homes. Most of the trees and shrubs were native or endemic but some exotic ornamentals were included, providing colorful flowers to the Railway Trail. This huge accomplishment has benefited the Bermuda National Trust, the neighbourhood and Bermuda as a whole. Thank you!”
The Bermuda National Trust cares for 277 acres of land across the island to protect and promote Bermuda’s unique natural and cultural heritage, with an education programme focused on encouraging this ideal for future generations to come. Appleby are delighted to contribute to this mission.
