Protecting our Ancient Woodland

Ancient woodland like the ones found within Manydown’s countryside park make up only 2% of British woodland. These habitats can be as rich in bio-diversity as tropical rainforests, so there are plenty of good reasons for us to look after them.

Ancient woodland has been around for so long it has developed its own special communities of plants and animals not found elsewhere and once it is gone it cannot be easily replaced. 

It is much more than the trees that you can see, it supports unique and complex communities of plants, fungi, insects and other microorganisms. 

The work we have recently undertaken to fill gaps made in the border of the woods with native species of blackthorn will, once established, help to manage access to the delicate ground flora within the woodland.

What we are doing?

We want to protect and enhance the existing natural habitat at Manydown. As part of this commitment, we are strengthening the edge of the woodland by planting native species (such as blackthorn and bramble) in locations where informal gaps have been created. A wooden post and wire fence is also being installed to further protect the existing natural environment and ancient woodland.

Why we are protecting the woodland?

Ancient woodland takes hundreds of years to establish. It is vital to protect this valuable natural asset which is important for:

  • Wildlife
  • Biodiversity of flora
  • Recreation, health and wellbeing
  • Cultural, historical and landscape value

How you can help?

Whilst we encourage people to enjoy what Manydown has to offer, we ask everyone to respect the natural environment and only walk on the allocated Public Rights of Way to help us to protect this important habitat.

Please keep your animals on a lead and make sure to clean up after them so that everyone can enjoy using the space together.

Together we can protect and enhance the existing natural habitat at Manydown.