For the past month we have been undertaking restoration work on a number of our plantation on ancient woodland sites (PAWS) by removing non-native species from a number of compartments within Raincliffe Woods.
Our native plants and animals that live in Raincliffe Woods have evolved to specific light and soil conditions found in deciduous broadleaved woodlands, so while ever PAWS sites are dominated by dense stands of fast growing conifers these ancient woodland features and the species that live there are under threat.
Our long-term objectives for the site includes exciting plans to revert specific compartments to wet woodland, which is now some of our least common wooded habitat in the UK. Wet woodland support an extremely rich invertebrate habitat, supporting a very large number of species, many of which are now rare in Britain.
Some of the work carried out may look harsh when first completed, but the ability of nature to reclaim the spaces left behind is incredible. The success or failure of woodland management can not be measured in weeks or months, but can take generations. For example many of our treasured ancient trees are only present today due to management decisions taken centuries ago.
We will be carrying out enrichment planting this winter using native species in some areas to support the recovery of these areas back to their natural broadleaf habitat, so keep an eye on our events page for details.
We would like to thank visitors for their understanding regarding any disruption to the use of public rights of way during this period.
November 2020
