Woodland update

Robin Hall

In the Autumn of 2020 work began to cut and remove Cherry Laurel and Rhododendron that had infested an area of woodland on Plaw Hatch Farm. These invasive species had created a dense canopy which prevents regeneration of native trees and plants. Since the first venture into the area with a chainsaw, a large area has been cleared. A group of volunteers was formed and most of the clearing of the site was done by these friends of the woods. A big part of the work has been the prevention of re-growth of the Laurel and Rhododendron and the removal of bamboo which has also spread across part of the site. As we would not use chemicals to kill the stumps, they have been “weeded” by hand. This process takes several years but after repeated visits to the stumps to remove the many shoots that appear, they eventually die. The first Rhododendrons that were cut have had this treatment and they are now rotting away.

Last winter work continued with a small dam to refill part of the pond and the original overflow channel was cleared. Discussions continue about how much restoration is appropriate for this pond, but ducks have been spotted down there so they seem to be content with what is available now.

A volunteer day happens on the last Saturday of each month and is open to all. If anyone would like to get involved, please contact me via robin@plawhatchfarm.co.uk

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