Traditional woodland techniques prove popular with wildlife

A community project which is using traditional woodland management methods to transform a forested area near the village of Roddlesworth, Lancashire, is already proving popular with wildlife in its first year.

The five-year project which aims to improve the habitat for wildlife was developed by United Utilities Partnership Project Officer Andy Ryding and Woodland Officer Michael Bullivant in partnership with Natural England, Chorley and District Natural History Society and local coppicing experts Greenwood Twiggs.

Coppicing is the process of cutting trees down to the stump to allow for more light to hit the forest floor. By carefully selecting areas to work on, and implementing the work over several seasons, the project aims to improve biodiversity, create habitat corridors, and enhance the overall health of the woodland.

Andy Ryding explained: “The project is focused on re-establishing traditional woodland management techniques such as coppicing, thinning, and habitat creation. It might seem strange that cutting some trees down can help attract more wildlife, but we are already seeing fantastic results with more bird life in the area.”

Work on the West Pennine Moors site began in November 2023 with selected areas being coppiced, habitat corridors created, and new bird boxes installed. Within a few weeks bird species including Tree Pipits and Pied Flycatchers returned to the area with the Flycatchers successfully breeding and hatching six young.

In addition to the environmental benefits, the project also provides an opportunity for the local community to get involved and learn more about woodland management and conservation. On-going monitoring and assessments by the Chorley and District Natural History Society will help track the success of the project and provide learnings for future conservation projects.

As the project continues over the next two years, it is hoped that the woodland will become a thriving habitat for a variety of bird species and other wildlife in the area.

Andy added: “We’re taking a very careful approach to the work by only working in one section of woodland at a time. This is to prevent any shock to the ecosystem and allow for a gradual transition to a healthier and more diverse environment.

“The success we have seen so far is thanks to the dedication and commitment of everyone involved. By working together to improve and protect our natural spaces, we can ensure a brighter future for wildlife, the environment, and future generations to come.

“The transformation of Roddlesworth South is a reminder of the positive impact that conservation efforts can have and the importance of preserving our natural heritage”.