Thursday 14 Nov, and a sunny morning at Green Broom Wood for thirteen workers. Tony got a fire going and we carried on clearing brushwood and bramble from the glade to the left of the footpath. A fallen oak tree, blocking the path, was removed, and a passing walker stopped to inquire what we were doing. He tells us he has been walking this way for forty years, and is clearly as interested as we are to know what flowers and plants will appear in spring, now that the ground has been cleared.
After coffee we had a visit from Rik Pakenham, forestry manager for the Hardwick Estate – he seemed very happy with our work so far, and mentioned especially how well the hazel coppice had regrown since our early sessions. Hazel coppice is not only a good provider of stakes and binding for hedge-laying, but is also in demand for thatching spars, which are currently imported from Poland!
The Estate’s aim for this Planted Ancient Woodland Site (PAWS) is to promote natural regeneration of nearby trees such as oak, beech and ash. They may plant some additional species such as cherry, which have good commercial value. Meanwhile the Green Gym has plenty more work to do at this popular spot.
Elizabeth, 14/11/2013
