Forestry operations at Fernworthy Forest
Fernworthy Forest is a working woodland producing sustainable timber. We are working here for several months from August 2024. This page provides more information about the work we're doing.
What is happening?
From August 2024, we are working across western and central areas of Fernworthy. In areas where the trees are growing densely, we are thinning them. This means removing selected trees for timber products. This gives the remaining trees more space and light to grow to their full potential. Thinning also lets more light onto the forest floor, which improves the habitat for ground flora and the wildlife it supports.
In some small areas, we are removing all of the trees at once because they are suffering from Phytophthora ramorum. This is an incurable tree disease that is harmless to people and animals. Because there is no cure, the only way to slow down the spread of disease is to remove the affected trees as quickly as possible.
The timber from Fernworthy Forest is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) as being sustainably produced.
Can I still visit Fernworthy Forest?
Safety is our highest priority. Fernworthy Forest is open to visitors throughout the forestry work but there might be times when tracks are closed or diverted so we can work safely nearby. We also ask visitors to keep gateways and turning circles clear for machinery and haulage vehicles.
It is essential for the safety of our visitors, staff, contractors, and volunteers that everyone follows all signs, diversions, and closures at all times, whether or not you can see or hear us working. Forestry work is very hazardous. A falling tree can weigh several tonnes and hit the ground at nearly 60mph. If a harvesting machine chainsaw snaps, it can fly through the forest like a bullet.
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. For example, Fernworthy is an important site for several bird species, including raptors.
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 forest plan for Fernworthy online. If you have any questions about our work in the Forest, please email us.