An outstanding example of how the Forestry Commission’s English Woodland Grant Scheme can be of benefit has been proven at Birchanger Wood on the Herts/Essex border near Bishop’s Stortford.
For several years’ advice and guidance has been given to Birchanger Wood Trust, which manages the woodland, for the ongoing coppicing programme, as well as finance in the form of grant aid to support this and other works.
This ancient woodland originates from the 12th century when it was recorded as "Bircehangra" which means, "Wooded slope growing with Birch trees". Indeed to this day, the wood contains many Birch trees. In spring it is renowned for its carpet of bluebells and wood anemones.
Birchanger Wood Trust Warden, Pat Forest, says: “Moving into the future our aim is to upgrade the wood and the Forestry Commission has once again come to our aid with footpaths, coppicing, bird boxes, pond renovation and picnic benches and tables.
“The Forestry Commission continue to be our stalwart supporters, without whose help we would be unable to attain our goals.”
David Rowe, Forestry Commission Woodland Officer for the area, added how funding for the important works affecting public access have allowed the ongoing relationship with the Birchanger Trust to continue to flourish as has been the case for over ten years.
These are the areas where the support and funding has been in evidence:
Footpaths
The woodland is a very popular with local residents. The existing paths are in need of upgrading to make them more clearly defined in the woodland. This will also help protect the flora and fauna, which in places are becoming eroded. It is proposed that the footpaths will be designed for use by all abilities of users.
Coppicing
Birchanger Wood is ancient coppice woodland. This is where areas of the woodland trees are felled to ground level and then grow again from the stumps, a very sustainable way of keeping an old woodland growing. This type of management has been ongoing for hundreds of years. The Forestry Commission is helping to support this management and provide advice and grants to allow this to continue.
Bird Boxes
Forestry Commission funding is enabling us to promote the habitat for rare and everyday wild birds within the wood such as Tree Creepers.
Picnic Benches and Tables
The existing benches are very popular with visitors and thanks to Forestry Commission funding more of these are to be made and strategically sited.
Pond Renovation
Funding will allow us to renovate our ponds to a suitable habitat for tadpoles and frogs along with other precious wildlife.
Further information on these areas and other Forestry Commission support can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk/eastengland
NOTES TO EDITOR
1. Photo caption: Pat Forest, Head warden, on left with one of the volunteers.
2. The Forestry Commission is a government department responsible in England for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests, and increasing their value to society and the environment. Forestry makes a real contribution to sustainable development, providing social and environmental benefits arising from planting and managing attractive, as well as productive woodlands. www.forestry.gov.uk
MEDIA CONTACTS
Chris Johnson, Forestry Commission England Press Officer, tel 01223 346034
David Rowe, Woodland Officer for Cambridgeshire, Forest Heath & Uttlesford Districts, tel 01223 773064. Mob: 07917 262823