Tutor: Kerry Vaughan
Time: 9:30 - 4.00, 13 November 2011
Location: ASSINGTON MILL, Suffolk, CO10 5LZ
Coppicing is a traditional method of woodland management where stems
are cut at ground level promoting vigorous re-growth. This provides the
sustainable supply of straight poles used for many purposes including
thatching, hurdle making, basket weaving and firewood. The process of
coppicing not only prolongs the life of a tree, it also produces a
wealth of sustainable materials.
This course is aimed at the beginner to give an insight into the
history, wildlife and practical aspects of coppicing. We will spend
some time inside learning about various aspects of this traditional
management technique and why it is so important. We will spend the
majority of the day outside coppicing in a nearby woodland. This course
will suit anybody who likes spending time outdoors: landowners or
anyone with an interest in traditional woodland management techniques.
The Wildlife Trusts and others have groups of volunteers who carry out
work on the reserves, and they would certainly welcome you. This course
does involve the physical work of cutting stems, stacking and possibly
dragging them. You will find it a very satisfying way to spend a day
outdoors doing something positive for the environment and a fantastic
way to keep warm and get some exercise!
PARTICIPANTS' COMMENTS:
Lovely day. Thank you. Gary Rogers
Perfectly pitched for a beginner. A good balance of the theory and
context along with the practical. Walking the grounds beforehand was
especially useful, being able to see old coppice and pollarding. An
excellent day. Tim Pike
Excellent presentation by a teacher who is extremely well-informed
about her subject. Friendly and helpful! Joan
As I keep coming back I guess that says it all. Valerie Banwell
Just waiting for Kerry's book on coppicing! She's a great
ambassador for the Suffolk Wildlife Trust.
Lovely cake.
It's been like therapy! Thanks so much. Dan R.
A great introduction to coppicing, with the opportunity to hear
first-hand accounts of the problems and solutions of woodland
management. An excellent day.
Another super day. Thank you.
RECOMMENDED READING
The Woodland Way: A permaculture approach to sustainable woodland
management - Ben Law 9ISBN-10 1856230090)
Trees and Woodland in the British Landscape - Oliver Rackham
Managing Habitats for Conservation - William J Sutherland and David A
Hill
Natural Woodland: Ecology and conservation in northern temperate
regions - George F Peterken
Green Woodwork: Working with wood the natural way - Mike Abbott
Identification Guides: Collins Bird guide - Lars Svensson et al
Collins Tree guide - Owen Johnson
The Wild Flower key - How to identify wild plants, trees and shrubs in
Britain and Ireland - Francis Rose
Wild Flowers by Colour: The easy way to flower identification Colour
Identification guide to the Grasses, Rushes and Ferns of the British
Isles and North Western Europe - Francis Rose
Pocket Guide to the Butterflies of Great Britain and Ireland - Richard
Lewington
What to Bring:
Note pad and pen
Sturdy boots or wellies
Warm clothes suitable for the outdoors including
waterproofs
Hat
Work gloves
There will be equipment to borrow on the day.
