NATIVE WOODLAND: RESTORATION AND CREATION

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EAST OF EDEN

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NATIVE WOODLAND: RESTORATION AND CREATION STEVE SCOTT Introduction This paper is a brief overview of current policy and practice for the restoration and creation of native woodland in the East of England. Inevitably, it is impossible to do justice to this subject in a short space, and the author is acutely aware of walking in the steps of many eminently more qualified commentators. Our native woodland is a hugely valuable environmental and cultural asset. More rare and endangered species rely on woodland than any other terrestrial habitat. Some of our ancient woodland may have been continuously tree covered since the last ice age and have been sustainably managed for millennia. Many of our native woods are in poor condition, however, and they face a number of threats from man, beast and bug. If we are to maintain and enhance our native woodland assets for future generations then we need concerted and targeted action. Definitions A few definitions are probably warranted in potted form: “Ancient” Woodland is that has been continuously under tree cover since 1600 (approximately the date of the first reliable maps). “Native” woodland is comprised of tree species indigenous to the site. “Ancient semi-natural woodland” has been continuously tree covered since 1600 with species indigenous to the site. “Other semi-natural woodland” is of more recent origin. A “Plantation on Ancient Woodland Site” (PAWS) is a continuously wooded site on which the native tree cover has been replaced with non (site) native trees, whether broadleaved or coniferous. In practise, of course, there are degrees of grey in site realities. Distribution At the regional level the relevant proportions of woodland types over two hectares are: Woodland (over two hectares) in the East of England (hectares) Ancient semiPlantation on natural ancient Total woodland area woodland woodland sites Plantation 113,300 18800 8200 86300 Although ancient woodland is scattered throughout the region, the majority is to be found in Hertfordshire, Essex and South Suffolk. The region contains some of the most important ancient woodland in the country, with Staverton Thicks near Woodbridge in Suffolk and Epping Forest being prime examples.

Trans. Suffolk Nat. Soc. 40 (2004)


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