Under-management is one of the most significant threats to the wildlife value and continuity of a woodland. Unfortunately most small woodlands have been neglected in the last 50 years and as such have become dense, even-aged stands which do not present a good habitat for most woodland species and have little or no regeneration ensure the woodland continues into the next generation.

Woodland Management

Most of our woodland management is carried out as part of a whole site approach which includes ecological assessment and management planning, but where these have already been done, we can undertake specific management operations on their own.

Hedge Laying

We lay hedges in the traditional South-Western style as well as renovate previously flailed or neglected hedges. Laid hedges create better wildlife habitats and prolong the life of the hedge. Although often considered an expensive option, laying only needs to be carried out once in every 8-12 years, and at present, no mechanical alternative delivers the same wildlife benefits. With the decline in traditional hedgerow management on farms, small hedgerows bordering gardens and private fields have become an important refuge for many species.

Pond Creation

The creation of a pond is probably the single most effective way of increasing the wildlife diversity of most sites. We undertake pond creation on any scale, from back garden to farm wetland networks. We can also set up reed-bed systems to clean the water entering the system where necessary.

Natural Landscaping

Many of the habitat management principles which apply on a landscape scale can also be applied to gardens. Gardens have a hugely underestimated role to play in habitat creation especially with regard to features like ponds and late-flowering plants often largely absent in the wider landscape. We use both ecological and horticultural experience to create gardens which maximise the wildlife potential of the site as well as being interesting and enjoyable places for people.