The Chiltern Society and the Royal Forestry Society (RFS) are joining forces for this year’s Grown in Britain Week, and are calling for volunteers to help with ride and woodland management at Hockeridge Wood near Ashley Green.
Grown in Britain (GIB) aims to increase the supply of British timber destined for use by local people and businesses. Open Forest Friday on 16 October will be held at woodlands, sawmills and other venues across the UK, demonstrating how active management benefits woodland habitats and environments as well as the timber they produce.
At Hockeridge Wood, local people are being urged to try their hand at woodland management from 10am-1pm. No skills required, just plenty of enthusiasm (minimum age 18).Tools and instruction will be provided. Places are limited, please contact euanrussell@tesco.netif you are interested in taking part.
During the morning, Grown in Britain will also be presenting the RFS with Grown in Britain accreditation, independent confirmation that the woodlands are managed in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard for sustainable woodland management in the UK.
RFS Chief Executive Simon Lloyd said: ” Britain’s woodlands are important for their environmental as well as economic benefits. To be confident that our woodlands can meet the challenges they are already facing, and will continue to face, from environmental change, pests and diseases, we need to make sure they are well managed
” Good and active woodland management is vital to building that resilience and we are grateful to the Chiltern Society who are supporting our aims with a series of work parties in our Hockeridge and Pancake Wood, which are open to all.
” As a society dedicated to inspiring passion and excellence in woodland management, we are also delighted to have achieved Grown in Britain accreditation for both this wood and Battram, our wood in the National Forest.”
Euan Russell, a volunteer leader from the Chiltern Society said:“We are pleased to join the RFS in its endeavours in these woodlands as part of our overall objective to provide practical support on the ground to make a difference in the Chilterns.
“Our overall aim is to improve all aspects of the Chiltern’s for the benefit of all and thus encourage people to enjoy this unique rural landscape.”
More details of Grown in Britian Week events are available here
More about Hockeridge Wood here
