Nore Barn Woods are part of the Chichester Harbour Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty, and the southern edge and marsh is a
SINC (Site of Importance for Nature Conservation).
The aims of work in the wood are:
· To maintain and improve the woods, retaining the
general character
· To improve wildlife by creating a range of habitats
· To ensure the long term survival of the woods so that
future generations can enjoy
What are the threats to the woods?
The hawthorn trees are over-mature, so they are toppling early
and leaving bare areas which are difficult to repopulate. They
are also too tall, so light does not reach the forest floor.
Holly is spreading, crowding out more desirable plants.
The age range of oaks is very limited, all being about 60 years
old. This is not good for continuous tree cover in the future.
There is full public access to the wood which causes trampling
of undergrowth and dogs chasing wildlife. There is also
occasional vandalism.
How will the aims be achieved and the threats minimised?
To improve wildlife a variety of habitats will be created and
maintained. These are:
· Dead fallen timber – timber piles are good for insect
life
· Standing dead timber – dead trees support bird and bat
life
· Central ride – the edges of the open area are excellent
for flowers
· Glades – also good for flowers and butterflies
· Bramble – home to birds
· Improve and replant the hedge – good for bird life and
to act as a corridor for all wildlife
· Consider climate change and plant appropriate species
The amount of light within the wood will be increased by
coppicing or pollarding selected areas of trees, and allowing
them to regrow. Invasive and non-native plants will be
controlled.
All work will be carried out following accepted conservation
practices.
To define this conservation work a 3 year plan has been agreed
with Havant Borough Council (HBC), based on a Woodland Plan
approved by the Forestry Commission. All tree work is covered by
a Felling licence from the Forestry Commission. To monitor
progress HBC visits yearly. If you wish to have further
information, or to comment upon the work plan, please contact
the Chairman.