Coppicing is a traditional method of woodland management where stems are cut at ground level promoting vigorous re-growth. This provides the sustainable supply of straight poles used for many purposes including thatching, hurdle making, basket weaving and firewood. The process of coppicing not only prolongs the life of a tree, it also produces a wealth of sustainable materials.

Click on Kerry Vaughan's name above to see more about the tutor.

This course is aimed at beginner to give an insight into the history, wildlife and practical aspects of coppicing. We will spend some time inside learning about various aspects of this traditional management technique and why it is so important. We will spend the majority of the day outside coppicing in a nearby woodland.

This course will suit anybody who likes spending time outdoors: landowners or anyone with an interest in traditional woodland management techniques. The Wildlife Trusts and others have groups of volunteers who carry out work on the reserves.

This course does involve the physical work of cutting stems, stacking and possibly dragging them. You will find it a very satisfying way to spend a day outdoors doing something positive for the environment and a fantastic way to keep warm and get some exercise!

WHAT TO BRING

Note pad and pen
Sturdy boots or wellies
Warm clothes suitable for the outdoors including waterproofs
Hat
Work gloves

There will be equipment to borrow on the day.

PARTICIPANTS' COMMENTS:

Lovely day. Thank you. Gary Rogers
Perfectly pitched for a beginner. A good balance of the theory and context along with the practical. Walking the grounds beforehand was especially useful, being able to see old coppice and pollarding. An excellent day. Tim Pike
Excellent presentation by a teacher who is extremely well-informed about her subject. Friendly and helpful! Joan
As I keep coming back I guess that says it all. Valerie Banwell

RECOMMENDED READING

The Woodland Way: A permaculture approach to sustainable woodland management - Ben Law 9ISBN-10 1856230090)
Trees and Woodland in the British Landscape - Oliver Rackham
Managing Habit5ats for Conservation - William J Sutherland and David A Hill
Natural Woodland: Ecology and conservation in northern temperate regions - George F Peterken
Green Woodwork: Working with wood the natural way - Mike Abbott

Identification Guides:

Collins Bird guide - Lars Svensson eta al
Collins Tree guide - Owen Johnson
The Wild Flower key - How to identify wild plants, trees and shrubs in Britain and Ireland - Francis Rose
Wild Flowers by Colour: The easy way to flower identification
Colour Identification guide to the Grasses, Rushes and Ferns of the British Isles and North Western Europe - Francis Rose
Pocket Guide to the Butterflies of Great Britain and Ireland - Richard Lewington