Woodland Improvements

Our programme of woodland improvements commenced in 2015.

Raincliffe Woods improvements include thinning planted 'stands' of mainly Larch and Beech, with some fell to waste (leaving as deadwood) on hard-to-reach areas.

What is Thinning?

Thinning is a process where selected trees are felled.

So, those remaining have more growing space and less root competition with other trees.

For the first three years, the work was carried out by the Woodland Trust.

In 2018, the year's programme was halted due to very wet ground conditions.

During 2019, RWCE CIC took on responsibility for the remainder of the 10-year felling licence.

Therefore, the majority of the thinning work is now completed.

We will move to a more selective fell and extraction of the remaining Larch.

Larch Trees

The Larch trees are at risk from Phytophra, which is a highly contagious disease.

If the disease is identified in our woodland, it involves serving of a Statutory Notice to clear fell all remaining Larch in proximity to any infected tree.

For more information on or Felling Licence, please visit the plans page to view and download a Revised Management plan and the latest maps and proposals.

Benefits of Tree Removal

Where possible, the trees selected for removal are to favour broadleaved trees.

The work also allows more light to the ground, encouraging the ancient woodland ground flora to develop beneath the trees.

There is also less competition from the neighbouring conifers.

Working hard
Working hard at woodland improvements

The woodland work inevitably causes some short-term disruption to users of the wood.

Chainsaws and forest machinery are fairly noisy, however the work is only for a short period.

Access to the woodland is maintained as near normal as possible.

Logs
Logs being moved as part of woodland improvements

We apologise for any inconvenience this causes.

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