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After landing on the Isle of Man over 20 years ago, Microgaming has teamed up with Manx Wildlife Trust to plant a microforest to the south of the island.It was back in April 2001 Microgaming chose to base their operations in the Isle of Man, and have since played an active role in community projects and charitable incentives.
Sapling Donations
Initially, Microgaming has donated 1,500 tree saplings to the microforest project with 80 volunteers of Microgaming staff members to help plant the new saplings. During the 8th and 9th of October, the group of Microgaming staff volunteers joined volunteers from the Manx Wildlife Trust to plant various native species including thorny shrubs like Hawthorne and wild roses, and fast-growing native trees such as Birch and Aspen, and Oak. Another reason for planting this type of tree and hedgerow saplings is the low maintenance value.
Supporting Biodiversity
The microforest is designed to support biodiversity and new habitats for local wildlife. Within 20 years this scrubland with its tiny saplings will emerge into an Oak woodland.During and after the planting of the saplings, rainfall hasd been quite low so in stepped the Rushen Fire Service who pumped over 5,000 litres of water on the site. The local Southern Nomads RUFC are located near to the site supplied parking and facilities for the team of volunteers.John Coleman CEO at Microgaming said, “As we come to the end of our 20-year celebrations, I’m proud that Microgaming can support a project that will benefit our island for many more decades. Huge thanks to everyone who mucked in to bring the microforest to life – together, you have helped plant a legacy that will last for years to come.” Andree Dubbeldham, Officer for Manx Wildlife Trust said, “The new microforest is the first piece of a massive nature jigsaw that will take shape on land owned by Rushen and Arbory Commissioners over the coming years. The microforest’s location close to the Port Erin and Port St Mary means that it will not only bring wildlife into a suburban area, but it will also attract people out into nature, delivering the associated physical and mental health benefits. Children and adults alike will be able to enjoy the space for centuries.”