A Brighter Future

The long-term plan for the ecological future of Fingle Woods began a few years ago. Teams of woodland ecologists and volunteers walked the woods, studying each and every patch of planted conifer along with the remnants of ancient woodland. As they searched the ground, the wild flowers and herbs were recorded, providing a benchmark of how many ancient woodland indicator plants were surviving in the woods. It provided a picture of where the restoration work should begin, prioritising those places most in need.Three years down the line this restoration work is beginning to show results as the conifers are thinned and the wild woodland plants are slowly reclaiming their place on the hillside. It’s a gradual transition from a dark and shady place to a bright and vibrant woodland habitat.

by Matt Parkins