Protecting the future of our native woodland in England and Wales
Each of the Trust's 1,000 woodland sites is unique with its own special character – from ancient guardians of the past through to newly-planted woodland that promises new life and landscape. As varied as the woods themselves is the care they need and each individual site has its own management plan designed to make the most of their distinctive nature.
In 2007 WREN donated £53,000 to the Woodland Trust to enable us to complete a number of valuable projects, including work at the following six woods across England and Wales:
Windmill Wood, Runcorn
To enhance the public's enjoyment of Windmill Wood paths, path scrapes have been improved, a boundary fence erected to reduce litter and anti social behaviour, and squeeze gaps have been installed to reduce fly tipping.
Bagger Wood, near Barnsley
Bagger Wood has also seen improvements to the paths and entrances and the removal of rhododendron which will encourage the native plants to grow, improving access to the wood for visitors.
Plas Power, Bersham near Wrexham
Plas Power has a number of historical features including a 1200 years old earthwork known as Offa’s Dyke which is a Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM) and is estimated to have been 27m wide and 8m tall when originally constructed. Clearance of the foliage from the sides of the Dyke enables visitors to see it in it’s former glory.
There is also an ornate cast iron Victorian bridge and railings and a Western Weir which was constructed around 1750. The importance of these features is highlighted by their inclusion in the Clywedon Trail promoted by the local authority.
Nidd Gorge, Harrogate
The restoration at Nidd Gorge of 17 hectares to Planted Ancient Woodland (PAWS), involving the removal of conifers and halo thinning around the existing mature native trees, plus new planting of native species. Footpaths have also been improved including a new waymarked route for walkers and the establishment of a less able route to the forest road.
Owlet Wood, Blyton & Laughton
Owlet Wood, which lies upon Coversands lowland heathland, is a designated County Wildlife Site where specialised birds such as nuthatch, hobby, woodlark and great spotted woodpecker are found. Veteran oaks also play host to other rare species and sensitive halo thinning of birch around the veteran oaks will provide the right conditions for them to thrive and ensure a longer life.
Coed Tregib, Llandeilo
Work to the paths and entrances of Coed Tregib has improved the access for visitors, also discouraging short cuts through the wood which damage the native flora such as bluebells. A bench for visitors to use and enjoy and an interpretation board at the wood entrance for information have also been installed .