Please help - where to see healthy coppice

[Deb London]

I have an interest in how woods were managed in the past, and how the flora and fauna of woods have changed from ancient to modern times.

During my studies I came across this shot of what was described as vigorous healthy coppice of about 5 years regrowth.



In order to get a feel for the effect coppicing might have on habitat, I'd like to visit and area like this one. Not necessarily to study the fauna, but to take some shots of the structure of the flora that form the field layer and get a feel for this type of woodland management.

The coppice above was compared with one heavily browsed by Roe Deer. The heavily browsed area was described as having a field layer composed of coarse grass and the canopy was open, some stools killed or severly damaged by the animals. This is not the type of coppice that I am interested in seeing. To me it seems almost impossible to find places without deer these days, but I want to give it a go.

Anyone got any ideas for a trip this spring?

Thanks.

[The Woodman]

How far do you want to travel?
Would you want to see coppice with standards too?

[Deb London]

Hi Woodman,

The aim is to travel as little as possible to see it, although there is a planned trip to Kent on the cards in spring. Kent being a long way away.

Coppice with or without standards. But the standards mustn't be too close together, I think.

[The Woodman]

I've no knowledge of Kentish practices apart the fame and history that goes before them.

You could try emailing Alistair Yeomans of the Institute of Chartered Foresters if you haven't got anywhere lined up.

ICF South East England Group

[Deb London]

Cheers for the contact Woodman.

[triops]

Go to Hayley Wood in Cambridgeshire where a long-term coppicing programme is going on, and deer fencing is used to exclude at least Fallow.

[Deb London]

Hi triops,

Thanks very much.

Deb

[chazzpott]

Hi deb
there is a country park very close to me (Essex. by Dartford tunnel) Where they coppice areas of Hazel every year. As a result, there is coppice of varying ages and all healthy too. There are standards as well and not too close together either. Also, there is a mature Wild Service tree in amongst it as well.

Charlie.

[Deb London]

Hi CP,

Very interesting (I am also interested in indicators of ancient woodland). It would be great if you could give me coordinates/directions.

[Tursiops2]

I don't know if it's within your travelling range, but Priestley Wood near Needham Market in Suffolk is glorious. More details here: wood home page
T2