ESSENTIAL FELLING WORKS AT HALDON FOREST

Significant clearing around the boles and subsequent tree inspection has been carried out by the Area Forester and the Field Team who manage Haldon Forest. The inspection revealed several rotting trees that may become dangerous and will have to be felled to ensure the safety of road users.

Area Forester, Allan Smart says:

“There are a large number of beech trees which line the roads that need to be removed as they pose a significant threat to road users. Many are extremely old (over 200 years) and have become infected by fungi such as Ganoderma, Fistulina and Ustulina spp and if they are not felled could eventually fall. The fungi infect the tree and take all the nutrients and begin to break down the cellular tissue causing rot. Unfortunately there is no real practical treatment other than to remove the affected tree. This will at least help to preserve the remaining trees – many of which will stay.

“Where appropriate new trees will be planted and shrubs allowed to grow to maintain the landscape and habitats within the forest. Each individual tree in the area has been thoroughly inspected, diagnosed and specifically prescribed a remedial treatment. It is our intention to retain all those trees that have a chance of longer-term survival.”

“The work will mean improved visibility along the roads. In addition, we hope that fewer deer will be injured by traffic as drivers will be able to see them well in advance and be able to take evasive action. By removing diseased trees now we hope to prevent accidents and unnecessary inconvenience to the road user.”