Forestry operations at Mortimer Forest
Mortimer Forest is a working woodland producing sustainable timber. We are currently working at Whitcliffe in the Evens area of the forest.
Stay safe
Please follow all safety signage, closure information, diversions and instructions from operators. Please look out for moving vehicles and follow any instructions from the driver. Do not climb on stacked timber. A log can weigh up to a tonne and rolling logs can kill. Stacks are carefully made and may look stable but, if a log comes loose, others are likely to follow.
What is happening?
This area of Mortimer Forest is classified as a Plantation on Ancient Woodland Site (PAWS) which means that we are gradually managing it back to the way it would have been several hundred years ago.
We are thinning Larch trees, this means removing selected trees for timber products. Thinning gives the remaining trees more space and light to grow to their full potential. We are removing trees in circular groups to let more light onto the forest floor, this should help native broadleaf species such as oak and birch to regenerate naturally.
Can I still visit Mortimer Forest?
The car park at Whitcliffe, the Whitcliffe Loop and Mortimer Trail across the harvesting areas will be closed while machinery is operating close by.
Please follow the temporary diversion signs on site for the Climbing Jack trail and Public Right of Way.
Any unofficial tracks or trails identified that cross the harvesting areas will be closed for the duration of the work.
Car parks and trails at Vinnalls and Black Pool are open as normal.
What about the wildlife?
Harvesting trees is an important part of sustainable forest management and well managed forests support more wildlife. Before we start any forestry work, we carry out thorough ecological surveys to check for species such as birds, mammals, rodents, invertebrates, flora, and fungi. This enables us to identify ecological constraints such as the presence of European Protected Species and Schedule 1 protected birds, which affect the time of year when certain operations can be carried out.
We consider our findings against complex factors including tree health, how the ground slopes, soil condition, and likely rainfall when planning forestry work. While working, we continue to check for wildlife and adapt, pause, or suspend work if necessary.
Where can I find out more?
You can read our full management plan for Mortimer Forest in the Mortimer Forest Plan. If you have any questions, you can contact us at westengland@forestryengland.uk
