Introduction to Woodland Management

Woodlands like any other habitats may look after themselves if they have the right conditions. For example, when trees die they re-new themselves in equal measure. In a natural environment; death from old age and damage from roaming animals, catastrophes from fires, disease and drought allow the trees to regenerate, and seeds to germinate and a new generation of trees to grow. This allow sun light to penetrate the ground which is essential in the regeneration of a woodland.

Currently there are no wildwoods in Britain these day, and even in Europe. Every woodland has been in some degree been managed since pre-historic times by humans. We cleared woodland to grow food, and harvest timber for building and heating. Managed woodland has been tamed and the associated wildlife have evolved and adapted to these conditions, to the point that largely reliant to man-made change. Arguably, the effects of climate change and the prolific effect of evasive species, pest and disease have give an valid reason where our woodlands is dependant on management to survive and thrive.