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Cultural & Historical Value - Coppiced woodlands are very much
part of our cultural heritage. Over several millennia their management has provided the raw
materials for agriculture, housing and many forms of industry. Surviving copses are living
reminders of the local history that has moulded the landscape and its communities over the
centuries.
Wildlife Value - Actively managed coppice woodlands provided a
wide range of habitats for wildlife. Newly cut coppice allows light and warmth
into a wood which is a boost for woodland flowers and by summer it will be alive
with the hum of insects attracted to the open and sunny conditions. Over the
years, until its next cut, the coppice will close out the light and warmth but
also provide a dense 'thicket' of shrubby growth often absent from mature
woodlands. In larger woods, where there is room for a ‘cycle’ of coppice
coupes, the wildlife benefit is enhanced by the fact that there is a series of
coupes all at different stages of growth. This means that those species
which depend on the light warmth and bare ground provided in the early stages of the coppice
cycle can survive by moving on to adjacent coupes within the wood as they are cut.
It should also be pointed out that derelict coppice can also have an important
conservation value where uncommon or rare species are associated with it. In other cases such as where dormice are
present, coppice management may need to be modified in order to ensure their survival. When
planning on restoring derelict coppice it is advisable to check with your local Wildlife
Trust or Biological Records Centre to see what biological records exist for the site.
These organisations may also be able to arrange biological survey of your wood
if no records exist or those that exist are old.
Rural employment - Coppice woodlands provide work for a range
of rural craftsmen and women including hurdle, spar and charcoal makers. Their work is driven
by demand. If you want a living, working countryside then supporting local coppice workers
and related craftsmen is a must!
Sustainable resource - If managed correctly all
the products produced from a coppiced woodland are 100% sustainable. In anything
from 5 to 30 years, (depending on species and product), an area of coppice will
be ready to supply its next 'crop' of coppice rods and poles. Also, through
buying local products you are also cutting down on the pollution and congestion
produced by transport. To find out more about sustainable forestry visit
www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/.
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