Continuous Cover by Natural Regeneration involves the management of the woodland so as to create the conditions favourable for seed production from selected mature trees and the creation of suitable environments within the forest for these seeds to germinate and grow. The aim is a balance of trees of different ages from seedling to mature, marketable and seed bearing trees. Trees are selected and felled individually, aiming to leave the best trees and/or the minor species to improve the quality and diversity of the forest. The forest’s canopy is managed to allow the appropriate amount of light to the forest floor to encourage natural regeneration from local seed sources and to nurture those seedlings, saplings and younger trees, which have established themselves. Each new generation of trees is itself managed to encourage the next, successor generation. The aim is to have a new generation of trees approximately every ten years, covering about 10% of the forest area, an overall effect of roughly 1% regeneration per year.

Particular attention is paid to sites of Scheduled Ancient Monuments or other archaeological remains to reduce any damage caused by forest operations to a minimum and, where possible, to enhance its protection. Similarly, we aim to minimise the damage caused by forestry operations to the surrounding habitats, with particular emphasis on protecting Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Our continuous cover/natural regeneration system, by encouraging diversity amongst the trees species, also encourages diversity of other plant and animal species.

Our woodland is certified to UK Woodland Assurance Standards (UKWAS) and inspected annually for compliance. Our full certification code is CU-FM/COC-806855.

Assistance with management is received from the Forestry Commission via a management grant whose aim is the improvement and restoration of ancient native woodlands and their habitats.

Contact Details