Some of you will have noticed that felling operations have recently taken place in the wood, and may be wondering what is happening.
I wanted to take the opportunity to explain.
The work forms part of a planned woodland management programme to remove ash trees that have succumbed to, or are in advanced stages of, Ash Dieback (Hymenoscyphus fraxineus) – a fungal disease that has caused widespread and devastating losses to ash populations across the British Isles and continental Europe. Left in place, affected trees present an increasing safety risk as structural integrity deteriorates, and their removal is considered best practice in responsible woodland management.
The felled timber currently remains on site. Extraction has not yet taken place as ground conditions are too wet to permit heavy machinery access without causing unacceptable damage to the woodland floor and soil structure. Operations will proceed once conditions allow.
Following extraction, the woodland will be restocked with a diverse mix of native broadleaf species, in keeping with the character of site and with the aim of creating a resilient, ecologically valuable woodland for the future.
I appreciate that felled trees can look alarming to those unfamiliar with woodland management practice, I am grateful for the interest and concern shown by the local community. Please be assured that the work is being carried out responsibly and with the long-term health of the woodland very much in mind.
Mike.
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