Avon Valley Woods
Avon Valley Woods
Management Plan
2013-2018
Avon Valley Woods
MANAGEMENT PLAN - CONTENTS PAGE
ITEM
Page No.
Introduction
Plan review and updating
Woodland Management Approach
Summary
1.0
Site details
2.0
Site description
2.1 Summary Description
2.2 Extended Description
3.0
Public access information
3.1 Getting there
3.2 Access / Walks
4.0
Long term policy
5.0
Key Features
5.1 Ancient Woodland Site
5.2 Informal Public Access
5.3 Field Margins and Boundaries
5.4 Open Ground Habitat
5.5 Secondary Woodland
6.0
Work Programme
Appendix 1: Compartment descriptions
Appendix 2: Harvesting operations (20 years)
Glossary
MAPS
Access
Conservation Features
Management
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Avon Valley Woods
THE WOODLAND TRUST
INTRODUCTION
PLAN REVIEW AND UPDATING
The Trust’s corporate aims and management
approach guide the management of all the
Trust’s properties, and are described on Page 4.
These determine basic management policies
and methods, which apply to all sites unless
specifically stated otherwise. Such policies
include free public access; keeping local people
informed of major proposed work; the retention
of old trees and dead wood; and a desire for
management to be as unobtrusive as possible.
The Trust also has available Policy Statements
covering a variety of woodland management
issues.
The information presented in this Management
plan is held in a database which is continuously
being amended and updated on our website.
Consequently this printed version may quickly
become out of date, particularly in relation to the
planned work programme and on-going
monitoring observations.
Please either consult The Woodland Trust
website www.woodlandtrust.org.uk or contact the
Woodland Trust
([email protected]) to confirm
details of the current management programme.
There is a formal review of this plan every 5
years and a summary of monitoring results can
be obtained on request.
The Trust’s management plans are based on the
identification of Key Features for the site and
setting objectives for their management. A
monitoring programme (not included in this plan)
ensures that these objectives are met and any
necessary management works are carried out.
Any legally confidential or sensitive species
information about this site is not included in this
version of the plan.
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Avon Valley Woods
WOODLAND MANAGEMENT APPROACH
The management of our woods is based on our charitable purposes, and is therefore focused on
improving woodland biodiversity and increasing peoples’ understanding and enjoyment of woodland.
Our strategic aims are to:
• Protect native woods, trees and their wildlife for the future
• Work with others to create more native woodlands and places rich in trees
• Inspire everyone to enjoy and value woods and trees
All our sites have a management plan which is freely accessible via our website
www.woodlandtrust.org.uk. Our woods are managed to the UK Woodland Assurance Standard
(UKWAS) and are certified with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) through independent audit.
In addition to the guidelines below we have specific guidance and policies on issues of woodland
management which we review and update from time to time.
We recognise that all woods are different and that the management of our sites should also reflect
their local landscape and where appropriate support local projects and initiatives. Guidelines like
these provide a necessary overarching framework to guide the management of our sites but such
management also requires decisions based on local circumstances and our Site Manager’s intimate
knowledge of each site.
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The following guidelines help to direct our woodland management:
Our woods are managed to maintain their intrinsic key features of value and to reflect those of the
surrounding landscape. We intervene when there is evidence that it is necessary to maintain or improve
biodiversity and to further the development of more resilient woods and landscapes.
We establish new native woodland using both natural regeneration and tree planting, but largely the
latter, particularly when there are opportunities for involving people.
We provide free public access to woods for quiet, informal recreation and our woods are managed to
make them accessible, welcoming and safe.
The long term vision for our non-native plantations on ancient woodland sites is to restore them to
predominantly native species composition and semi-natural structure, a vision that equally applies to our
secondary woods.
Existing semi-natural open-ground and freshwater habitats are restored and maintained wherever their
management can be sustained and new open ground habitats created where appropriate.
The heritage and cultural value of sites is taken into account in our management and, in particular, our
ancient trees are retained for as long as possible.
Woods can offer the potential to generate income both from the sustainable harvesting of wood products
and the delivery of other services. We will therefore consider the potential to generate income from our
estate to help support our aims.
We work with neighbours, local people, organisations and other stakeholders in developing the
management of our woods. We recognise the benefits of local community woodland ownership and
management. Where appropriate we allow our woods to be used to support local woodland,
conservation, education and access initiatives.
We use and offer the estate where appropriate, for the purpose of demonstration, evidence gathering
and research associated with the conservation, recreational and sustainable management of woodlands.
In particular we will develop and maintain a network of long-term monitoring sites across the estate.
Any activities we undertake will conform to sustainable forest management principles, be appropriate for
the site and will be balanced with our primary objectives of enhancing the biodiversity and recreational
value of our woods and the wider landscapes.
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Avon Valley Woods
SUMMARY
This public management plan briefly describes the site, specifically mentions information on public
access, sets out the long term policy and lists the Key Features which drive management actions.
The Key Features are specific to this site – their significance is outlined together with their long (50
year+) and short (5 year) term objectives. The short term objectives are complemented by a
detailed Work Programme for the period of this management plan. Detailed compartment
descriptions are listed in the appendices which include any major management constraints and
designations. A short glossary of technical terms is at the end. The Key Features and general
woodland condition of this site are subject to a formal monitoring programme which is maintained in
a central database. A summary of monitoring results is available on request.
1.0 SITE DETAILS
Site name:
Avon Valley Woods
Location:
Grid reference:
Woodleigh
SX732490, OS 1:50,000 Sheet No. 202
Area:
Designations:
139.42 hectares (344.51 acres)
Ancient Semi Natural Woodland, Ancient Woodland Site, Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty
2.0 SITE DESCRIPTION
2.1 Summary Description
Steeped in history, this collection of four Woodland Trust owned woods – Aveton, Watkins, Centry
and Avon – feature the hidden remnants of an old steam railway.
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Avon Valley Woods
2.2 Extended Description
The Avon Valley Woods lie just north of the small hamlet of Woodleigh within the South Devon
AONB in a landscape described as “inland undulating uplands” and “river valley slopes and
coombes”. The area is characterised by a farmed plateau of often shallow well drained stony soils
lying between the steep wooded river valleys of the Avon and Torr Brook.
The woods are a complex of Aveton, Bedlime, Titcombe, Woodleigh (Avon), Centry and Watkins
Woods. Collectively these form 139 hectares of accessible woodland linked by a network of paths
and tracks, ranging from ancient semi natural woodland alongside the river Avon, to coniferised
areas of ancient woodland planted in the 1960s, and finally extensive areas of recent creation. The
important conservation value of these sites is in part recognised by the County Wildlife Status of the
ancient semi natural woodland areas.
The woods represent the earliest acquisitions made by Kenneth Watkins, founder of the Woodland
Trust and are a living tribute to his vision. The very first wood owned by the Trust was Bedlime which
was purchased on the 24th October 1972. At that time the wood had been used widely for shooting
and there was a perceived pressure that woods within the valley would be felled and converted to
conifer as part of the drive by the government policies and management fashions of the time. These
fears provided the initial drive for acquisitions in the valley and the setting up of the Woodland Trust.
In August 1973 Dartshill Copse (adjoining Bedlime, and now treated as part of Bedlime), Titcombe
Wood and Woodleigh Wood (Avon) were purchased.
The valley of the River Avon is the main landscape feature of the site, the broadleaved and
coniferised ancient woodland areas are confined to the banks and the steep valley slopes and the
recently planted broadleaved woodland areas found on the level pastoral plateau above the valley.
The Victorian railway that ran through the valley from Loddiswell Station now forms the basis of a
level walking route through the valley and links many of the woodlands together until emerging at
Topsham Bridge. The site provides one of the largest areas of accessible woodland in the South
Devon AONB. The main valley path can be gained from Topsham Bridge and the former Loddiswell
Station however, parking is very limited. The valley path is often flooded and although generally
level provides a challenging walk. The recently planted woodlands can be accessed from the public
highway just north of Woodleigh Village and limited parking is provided at most entrances.
3.0 PUBLIC ACCESS INFORMATION
3.1 Getting there
The Avon Valley Woods is a complex of sites located around the village of Woodleigh near
Kingsbridge in South Devon. Access to the sites is gained from a number of different directions from
surrounding country lanes that do not have any pavements.
Aveton Wood
Aveton Wood can be accessed directly from Coombe Lane above Topsham Bridge via a hunting
gate beside the main management gate to the wood. Once inside the wood the paths follow a
network of forest tracks leading through the site. The main track follows a contour with only a slight
gradient in places with a reasonably level crushed stone surface. The wood is little used at present
and no managed formal circular routes exist however it is possible to walk around the site although
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Avon Valley Woods
some of the tracks leading from the main route have rough unmade surfaces and slopes of a
steeper gradient. It is possible to access Titcombe and then Woodleigh Woods from this site but the
route is steep and the path surface rough and crossing the river via an old railway bridge (outside
Woodland Trust ownership) is necessary. There is very limited parking provision at the entrance for
cars and no other spaces within reasonable walking distance of the gate.
Bedlime Wood
Bedlime Wood is a quiet, secluded woodland to the north of the complex and is open for public
access but does not have any access provision due to its physical limitations with the ground being
very steep and undulating. This means there are no paths maintained within the site. The wood does
bound Coombe Lane for a short distance and views can be appreciated from Aveton Wood.
Woodleigh and Titcombe Woods
These central two woods are not directly accessible from the road but via a step-over stile and a
narrow footpath beside Loddiswell Station (disused) in the south or from Topsham Bridge in the
north via a public footpath. This crosses private land before running the entire length (approximately
1 mile) of both Woodleigh and Titcombe Woods and currently provides the only easy option of
visiting these woods. In places old timber walkways help with access across the many spring lines
that flow across the path to the River Avon but in places this path can become seasonally flooded.
The path surface is natural, unmodified and sometimes rocky for the majority of its length. The walk
is challenging in places, but provides an un-interrupted woodland experience for some distance. An
old railway (not in Woodland Trust ownership) currently used as a permissive path runs throughout
the valley and often parallel to the public footpath.
Watkins and Centry Wood
Access to Watkins Wood and Centry Wood is directly from the lane running north from Woodleigh
village. Several entrances allow access to these sites with either field and hunting gates (on the
permissive and public bridleway routes) or kissing gates on the footpath routes. One step over stile
is used to gain access to Bartlands field in the far north-east of the site. Paths and rides cross the
site through the planted areas all with natural, unmodified surfaces and a steep gradient in places.
The planted areas to the west of the lane have no public access provision within them although
access is available to the open space above them allowing enjoyment of the views across the Avon
Valley. Again the surface here is natural and unmodified.
There is one public bridleway on the site crossing the northern section of Watkins Wood. This route
follows a sunken farm lane with an uneven sometimes rocky surface through the site. Other
permissive bridleways now exist around the boundaries of this compartment although wet ground
makes access difficult at times along the Torr Brook Valley.
Nearest public toilet – There are a number of public facilities to be found in Kingsbridge
(approximately 3 miles) an example being found at the Quay where the toilets are suitable for the
disabled and have baby change facilities. There are facilities at the Parish Council Car Park in the
centre of Loddiswell Village these may be occasionally locked. Further information on public
conveniences can be found on the South Hams District Council website - www.southhams.gov.uk
under “Residents”.
Nearest bus stop – There are no bus services directly to Woodleigh however there is a limited
service to Loddiswell village approximately 1.5 miles away along minor country lanes with no
pavements.
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Avon Valley Woods
Further information about public transport provision is available from Traveline –
www.travelinesw.com or by phone on 0870 608 2 608.
Information on toilets and public transport gathered November, 2012
3.2 Access / Walks
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4.0 LONG TERM POLICY
The majority of the Ancient Semi Natural Woodland will be left to allow natural process to dominate
with intention to create old growth stands of varied canopy structure in equilibrium of decline and regrowth. However as there may be long term limitations to this approach including declining light
levels through a lack of wind throw or other natural process, increasing percentages of non-natives
such as beech and sycamore and the more extensive regeneration of holly. Some coupes and ride
edges may be managed to maintain biodiversity and to maintain the NVC or County Wildlife Status.
Plantation on Ancient Woodland Sites areas will continue to be managed in line with the Woodland
Trust restoration strategy focused on thinning to maintain light levels by the slow removal of nonnatives and securing the development and restoration of largely native woodland cover. The policy
approach of thinning will inevitably be compromised in the event of an out break of Phyopththora
ramorum and the issue of a Plant Health Notice. Current access will require upgrading at the point of
harvesting to overcome safety issues.
Recently established areas of new woodland will be allowed to develop without significant
intervention. However, as rides, hedgerows and areas of open ground are increasingly occluded by
regeneration and canopy development, management will be undertaken to maintain the structural
diversity of these areas as designed, through extensive grazing, traditional hedgerow management
and thinning.
A long term relationship with villagers and those living in the parish will be maintained and
developed through use of the site.
Low key informal public access throughout the site will continue, with links between woodlands and
also the wider rights of way network being improved as appropriate, if opportunity allows.
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Avon Valley Woods
5.0 KEY FEATURES
The Key Features of the site are identified and described below. They encapsulate what is important
about the site. The short and long-term objectives are stated and any management necessary to
maintain and improve the Key Feature.
5.1 Ancient Woodland Site
Description
Ancient Woodland
Extensive semi-natural valley woodlands with a variety of NVC stand types ranging from well
drained to wetter soils. Cumulatively the woods are in close proximity to similar sites within the
valley system and form a large area of semi-natural cover. The woodlands are considered a
significant feature of the South Devon AONB and the County Wildlife Site designation confirms the
importance of the woodlands BAP status. The woodlands provide the largest area of accessible
semi-natural woodland in the AONB.
Planted Ancient Woodland
Aveton Wood is found above Topsham Bridge at the far northern end of the sites. Virtually, the
whole wood was felled and re-planted in 1960 and 1970s with Douglas fir, Japanese larch,
European larch and poplar. Summary of floral interest dated 10/9/92 highlighted concentrations of
remnant ancient woodland flora in particular associated with boundary features. Rides also showed
species associated with unimproved grassland areas. Although, the whole site is listed as Ancient
Woodland in NCC register, the First Edition OS Circa 1880s shows sub compartment 4a as two
separate fields.
Since Woodland Trust ownership sub compartments 4b and 4e were clear felled in 2003 and the
Douglas Fir restocked to native broadleaves utilising a combination of planting and natural
regeneration. All the remaining conifer compartments were thinned at this time. Sub compartment 4f
is the only relic area of Ancient Semi Natural Woodland in Aveton which remained untouched by the
felling in the 1960s due to its inaccessibility.
A review of the site in the Spring of 2014 is expected to determine that all the conifer areas require a
further thinning in order to further “secure and enhance” the ancient woodland features.
Significance
Proposals support the corporate objective: Aim 2 – Protecting native woods, trees and their wildlife
for the future.
The valley woods were also the first woodlands acquired by the Trust and contribute to the WTs
objective of increasing Woodland biodiversity and no further losses of Ancient Woodland
Opportunities & Constraints
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Avon Valley Woods
Ancient Woodland
Limited management access constrains economic and silvicultural working of semi-natural
woodland areas; however this does provide the opportunity to practice continual cover High Forest
management over a large area increasing biodiversity over a long timescale.
Planted Ancient Woodland
Opportunity: To restore coniferised Ancient Woodland to native broadleaved cover, broadly in line
with NVC type W10.
Constraints: steep slopes, difficult road access to site and equally limited management access
within, including a lack of turning, and stacking space for timber and harvesting and haulage
vehicles within the wood. Difficulties with access will restrict silvicultural operations leading to long
term decline of ground flora.
Factors Causing Change
Ancient Woodland
1. Closed mature canopy structure favours shade tolerant species and the regeneration of nonnative species such as beech/sycamore and holly and a resultant loss of ground flora is a growing
risk due to increasingly dense stands.
Planted Ancient Woodland
1. Increasingly dense canopy cover.
2. Conditions favouring regeneration of conifers.
3. Likely, infection of larch with Phytophthora ramorum.
Long term Objective (50 years+)
Ancient Woodland
1.Diverse and varied age structure of broadleaved cover over entire group of woodlands. All
identified significant older trees retained. Some new areas of regeneration created in the older
valley woodlands. Woodland creation areas will have been thinned and ride edges managed
cyclically.
Planted Ancient Woodland
1. Conversion of planted (coniferous) areas to largely native broadleaved cover with a desired
spread of associated ground flora.
Short term management Objectives for the plan period (5 years)
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Avon Valley Woods
Ancient Woodland (Bedlime/Titcombe/Avon/Woodleigh)
1. In areas of Ancient Woodland free of invasive species (laurel, rhododendron) away from points of
access, highways boundaries and seasonal flooding, the existing semi-natural woodland habitat will
be left to develop through natural processes (Minimal-intervention).
2. Management will seek to eradicate non-natives (laurel, rhododendron, regenerating conifer)
within the life plan from the target areas (Bedlime/Titcombe link and Bushclose Copse) and then to
survey the remaining woodland areas for presence of non-natives in preparation of the next plan.
Planted Ancient Woodland (Aveton)
3. To manage the current “critical” PAWS status of sub cpts 4a, 4c, and 4d to “threatened” during the
life of the plan period. This will be achieved by silvicultural thinning of sub cpts 4a, 4c and 4d before
2016 and thinning back from ancient woodland remnants present along linear features such as the
River Avon. Success will be measured by assessing the increase in spread and abundance of
ancient woodland indicators in 2018 at the end of the current plan period.
4. Restoration potential of the site is limited by difficult vehicular access and we will seek to alleviate
this issue before the next thinning in 2016.
5. Control of invasive bracken and bramble to ensure establishment of re-stock areas planted in
2004.
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Avon Valley Woods
5.2 Informal Public Access
Description
The extensive nature of the woods provide one of the few opportunities in the South Hams of
enjoying a lengthy woodland experience, complimenting the WT's core objective of increasing public
enjoyment of Woodland.
The valley area is accessible from a public right of way at Loddiswell Station (disused) in the south
and Topsham Bridge in the north. The valley path can become seasonally flooded and in places old
timber walkways help with access across the many spring lines draining into the river Avon. The
path runs the length of compartments 1 & 2 (Woodleigh and Titcombe woods) and provides the only
easy access option. The walk is challenging in places, but provides an un-interrupted woodland
experience for some distance. The former railway bed (not in WT ownership) is currently used as a
permissive path runs throughout the valley and parallel to the public right of way. There is no public
access available to Bedlime Wood.
Although, the eastern boundary of Aveton Wood (compartment 4) adjoins the old railway, it is not
possible to enter the wood from the public footpath without crossing the old bridge (not in WT
ownership). Therefore Aveton Wood can only be accessed from Coombe Lane above Topsham
bridge. Here Public access is available via the main roadside entrance. Once in the wood a
network of forest tracks lead into the site.
Access to the recently planted Watkins and Centry woods can be gained from the village of
Woodleigh. Limited parking for cars is provided at all the key entrances off the highway. Some
areas are grazed and access to these areas may be limited at times but alternative routes are
available. The advice of the Fieldfare Trust was sought on “disability access” at the time offsetting
out the new planting and the design of the tracks and paths are intended to minimise steepness and
cross slope. All tracks have natural grass surfaces and there are no formalised surfaced disability
routes on site.
A public bridleway crosses the northern section of Watkins Wood (Compartment 6). Other
permissive bridleways now exist around the boundaries of this compartment although wet ground
makes access difficult at times along the Torr Brook Valley.
Significance
Proposals support the corporate objective: Aim 3 - Inspiring everyone to enjoy and values woods
and trees.
Opportunities & Constraints
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Avon Valley Woods
Steep valley sides constrain opportunities for easy roaming away from the valley bottom however,
limited opportunities to explore and link woods may exist utilising old management tracks and the
creation of links between the higher/lower parts of the site.
Watkins Wood offers long term opportunities for low key informal access throughout the area and
the complex as a whole also offers the opportunity for educational visits. This area offers extensive
views of the Valley Woodlands which provide the opportunity to illustrate the Trust's Objectives at a
landscape scale.
Access to the site is limited predominately to cars and parking is restricted and local roads are not
suitable for heavy traffic. As such access promotion and high levels of provision, particularly around
Woodleigh, may be inappropriate.
Access to horse riders is constrained by topography and WT landownership; opportunities for further
network enhancement such as the off road link to bypass Lowerdale Turn have been met - but
further opportunities can be considered on merit as they occur.
Factors Causing Change
1. Increasing numbers of "desire lines"
2. Increasing number of people accessing the site.
3. Damage to roadside verges from parked cars.
Long term Objective (50 years+)
An attractive and serviceable network of tracks and paths through the variety of types of woodland
and open ground that provide views and vistas of the local landscape and encourage the
appreciation of the woodland both on the site and in the locality. The access will be managed to
maintain the level of demand by the local community and visitors alike. Links with the local public
footpaths and bridleways will be maintained.
Short term management Objectives for the plan period (5 years)
1. To ensure the wood is accessible, welcoming and safe throughout the plan period. Maintained
through EMC term contract and inspected annually.
2. Formalise desire lines and rational linkages identified in 2013 survey between the mature valley
woodlands and recently planted uplands by end of plan period.
3. Ensure landscape views from recently planted areas are maintained throughout plan period.
Maintained through EMC term contract and inspected annually.
4. Seek to maintain suitability of permissive bridleways and undertake remedial work to permissive
route adjacent to Torr Brook to ensure long term potential of route by end of the plan period.
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5.3 Field Margins and Boundaries
Description
Traditional Devon Banks and Hedges surround and divide parts of the woodland creation areas.
The hedges are in a variety of conditions from overgrown to recovering from years of repeated
heavy flailing. Devon Hedges are locally distinctive and are identified in a number of regional action
plans, ranging from biodiversity to landscape character. They also complement woodland objectives
on the site and support a number of local specialist BAP species - such as Dormouse and Greater
Horseshoe Bats.
Significance
Proposals support the corporate objective: Aim 2 – Protecting native woods, trees and their wildlife
for the future.
Opportunities & Constraints
Opportunity:
1 - to incorporate hedges within woodland creation areas providing immediate diversity and tree
cover in these areas.
2 - To bring some hedges back into traditional management where this does not impinge on
woodland creation objectives; for the benefit of local landscape, distinctiveness and important local
wildlife species.
Constraints:
1 - Bringing hedges into rotational management can be expensive and requires specialist skills.
Extensive lengths of roadside hedge will have to remain in regular flailing regimes for road safety.
Factors Causing Change
1. Insufficient intervention to manage hedges.
2. Flailing alone is not sufficient to prevent clusters of trees establishing in roadside hedges.
Long term Objective (50 years+)
Hedges in rotational management by traditional methods, supplemented by mechanical trimming
along highways.
Short term management Objectives for the plan period (5 years)
1. Undertake staged implementation of hedge restoration plan developed in 2012/13. Seeking to
bring one or more boundary hedges back into traditional management within the plan period, and
thus maintain long term landscape patterns of enclosure and open uplands as per Landscape Plan.
Review progress and plan at end of period for next management plan.
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5.4 Open Ground Habitat
Description
Significant areas of open ground retained on high ground adjacent to the woodland creation plots in
all phases. The open ground is linked by wide open rides and glades. Site design was influenced
heavily by the landscape assessment and subsequent design plan and community consultation
process.
Open topped hills were identified in landscape assessment as part of the character of the South
Hams and are locally distinctive.
This type of near semi-natural habitat supports a variety of important species identified in their own
Species Action Plans (S.A.P.)
Significance
Proposals support the corporate objective: Aim 2 – Protecting native woods, trees and their wildlife
for the future.
Proposals support the corporate objective: Aim 3 - Inspiring everyone to enjoy and values woods
and trees.
Opportunities & Constraints
Opportunities:
1. Access to several local graziers
2. Added interest to site visitors
Constraints:
1. Stock fencing required to secure more grazing areas.
2. Lack of water
3. Livestock conflict with other users
Factors Causing Change
1. Lack of grazing
2. Invasive species (ragwort)
3. Resistance of dog walkers to livestock
Long term Objective (50 years+)
Maintain open areas of species rich grassland, grazed to optimise habitat value. Where gazing is
impractical, the substantial internal ride network of interlinking rides and glades will be managed on
a rotational cutting basis.
Short term management Objectives for the plan period (5 years)
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Avon Valley Woods
1. To manage extensive areas of open ground to accommodate retention of open aspect of upper
field areas in line with landscape assessment and character of “inland undulating uplands”. In
addition to diversify the current species poor grassland to increase its habitat value to ground
nesting birds and invertebrates. Where practical adopt preferred management approach of by
grazing and longer term the potential to graze and create areas of wood pasture. Wide rides, way
leaves and access routes and limited areas of open ground will be maintained by rotational cutting
as recommended by the RSPB for permanent pasture. Success of grazing and cutting strategy will
be reviewed annually to ensure progress, evaluate value and species diversity.
2. Reduce by 50% the cost of controlling ragwort but end of plan period. The adoption of the DEFRA
best practice strategy in the previous plan period led to widespread regeneration of ragwort outside
of the key control areas providing an extensive seed source. Control by means of herbicide, pulling
and cutting and increasingly in grazing areas by careful selection and timing of livestock grazing
regimes.
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Avon Valley Woods
5.5 Secondary Woodland
Description
WATKINS WOOD (WEST) Former arable fields linked to the ASNW of the Avon Valley, surrounded
and divided by Devon banks. Native woodland was planted 2004 based on NVC W8 Ash Maple and
NVC W10 Oak bramble types found in adjacent mature semi natural woodland.
WATKINS WOOD (EAST) Phase woodland creation on former arable cropping between 2000 and
2003. Fields surrounded and partly divided by Devon banks. Recently established woodland
species based on NVC W8 ash maple and NVC W10 oak bramble types found in adjacent semi
natural woodland. Land slopes steeply to the east from the road down to the riparian woodland of
the Torr Brook.
CENTRY WOOD (EAST) - Woodland Creation area of native species established in 2000 as part of
the “Woods On Your Doorstep” project. Former arable land surrounded by Devon banks and
hedges. The open ground area also includes a small orchard of South Devon Apple varieties and a
large boulder of local stone as the Millennium Feature.
Throughout all the woodland creation areas extensive open ground has been retained to maintain
views and the open aspect of the high ground, large open areas to be developed as permanent
pasture. Arable weeds such as willow herb and ragwort continue to feature extensively.
Significance
Proposals support the corporate objective: Aim 1 – To enable the creation of more native woods and
places rich in trees
Opportunities & Constraints
Significant opportunity exists within Watkins Wood area to create an extensive block of new native
woodland contributing to the Devon habitat action plans for oak and wet woodland. The soil
structure and hydrology has been greatly affected by past farming practices and remain as factor
influences tree establishment. Natural regeneration adjacent to Woodleigh Wood is increasingly
forming an attractive semi-natural site feature, such buffering is and important principle of
conservation management.
The success of woodland creation on such a large scale at Watkins also provides an opportunity to
explore innovative management interventions and to demonstrate best practice.
The woodland is a growing commemorative memorial to the Woodland Trusts founder Kenneth
Watkins.
Factors Causing Change
1. Potential introduction of ash–dieback.
Long term Objective (50 years+)
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Avon Valley Woods
1. Creation of a large area of secondary woodland with characteristics of semi-natural woodland
structure
2. Established habitat links with adjacent semi-natural woodland to allow natural “migration” of
woodland flora and fauna
3. Where appropriate creation of a mosaic of wood pasture and well-developed semi-natural
grassland habitats of high conservation value.
Short term management Objectives for the plan period (5 years)
1. Seek to employ a strategy of supplementary planting with hazel and or encouraging natural
regeneration ash to maintain stocking levels until completion of WGS contract period for each
planting phase. In areas beyond contract period consider the value of “failed establishment” in terms
of creating the emergence of semi natural habitats.
2. In accessible areas remove and where practical recycle tree shelters from all establishment
phases in the plan period.
3. Subject to control of noxious weeds adopt changes to current maintenance regimes to allow
greater linkages with semi-natural woodland by allowing a greater proportion of natural regeneration
to establish on field, planting margins and wayleaves, beyond the “natural regeneration zones”.
Monitor and review along with short term objectives for the management of open space and
management of noxious weeds, by end of plan period.
4. Seek to reduce by 50% the annual cost of controlling noxious weeds by end of plan period.
5. The millennium orchard is situated in an exposed location and this has limited establishment. The
on-going establishment of the nearby hedgerow and recently planted woodland are increasingly
improving the micro-climate. Replacement planting, re-staking and annual pruning are necessary to
maintain condition and ensure establishment which is unlikely before the end of the plan period.
19
Avon Valley Woods
6.0 WORK PROGRAMME
Year
Type of Work
2013 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
2013 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
Description
Due By
Watkins Wood Sub Cpt 6a - cut and re- 31/05/13
spray rhododendron adjacent to and
above permissve bridleway along Torr
Brook
Rhododendron is present in the
"mature" woodland area of Bushclose
Copse. A number of clumps adjcent to
the path are obvious as they were
cleaned round as part of 2012
bridleway works to ease future working.
A series of clumps are present further
back into the wood. The precise
number of clumps and approximate
area need mapping and estimating.
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
26/07/13
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
20
Avon Valley Woods
2013 HF - Grazing
2013 NWH - Invasive Plant Control
2013 NWH - Grazing Work
2013 SL - Legal Obligation Work
2013 SL - Safety / Legal Obligation Work
(SODS)
UTLISE AS NECESSARY - 14 man
days removing ragwort by hand
(dig/pull) throughout control zones.
Arisings must be piled amongst trees
away from zone.
Mid July (weather dependant) Originally £1800
08/05/2013 - Broken Gate (replacement
, including padlock and chain) and
replacement of rails. £185 plus VAT
02/07/2013 - Aveton track clearance
£600 plus VAT
01/08/2013 - Fencing additional - H2O
Environmental. £837 plus VAT
12 man days spot spraying ragwort
rosettes with Glyphosate 6l/ha. Cover
all control zones identified on map plus
adjoining infested areas if time permits.
Mid April (weather dependant)
(equivalent of 3 days of 4 man team).
Seek solution to resolve of water supply
for grazing - bore hole, new mains
supply - seek quote from SWW.
1. Watkins Roadside Boundary Roadside boundary requires
mechanised hedge cutting, in places
one side of road in others both sides of
road. Note land boundaries in red.
Southern boundary along lane requires
combination of manual cutting and then
mechanised hedge cutting.
2. Bedlime roadside boundary requires
combination of manual cutting and then
mechanised hedge cutting. Boundary
also along runs along driveway to
house and requires cutting.
3. Aveton Wood - Light trim of roadside
boundary - ensure no potential for
overhanging vegetation
2/07/2013 - Following confirmation of
infection with phytophthora ramourm
undertaken works to open up and cut
as many of the harvesting access rides
as time permits. Note focus only on
areas with larch and douglas fir ONLY.
21
26/07/13
30/07/13
30/07/13
30/08/13
06/09/13
Avon Valley Woods
2013 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
27/09/13
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
2013 SL - Safety / Legal Obligation Work
(SODS)
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
Following notification of infection and
issue of Plant Health Notice undertake
tree removal at entrance to Aveton
Wood to ease lorry access for timber
felling and extraction.
3 m/days @ £145
addtional works agreed on 24/09/2013
1. Remove roadside overhang to ease
lorry access (neighbours trees)
2. Remove additional trees at the
entrance and along track where
identified
3. Remove gate and set to one side.
4. Cut small laurel and rhododendron
clumps and treat stumps with
gyphosate "stamp/patch"
6 m/days @ £145
22
04/10/13
Avon Valley Woods
2013 AW - Management Access Capital
20/06/2013 - This estimate is based on 31/10/13
a site visit with contractor James Baron
in early May, the work is considered
essential as the track is potentially
dangerous for hauliers to use as they
have to reverse up to 300m in and out
of the site above a steep slope. Note
we will be left with a site where we can
offer parking for visitors, which we dont
have currently.
4/11/2013
1/. To reduce a 20m section of roadside
bank as discussed, improving access to
Averton Wood entrance is £650.00 +
vat.
2/. Improve the entrance and access
track into Averton Wood by excavating
material off the bank on one side and
tipping on the other side as discussed
on site.
To provide all plant and labour the
cost is £4,500.00 + vat.
3/. Surface dress the access track and
turning area, with approx. 1500 tonnes
of quarry rubble and compact the cost
is £3,000.00 + vat.
2013 AW - Management Access Capital
2013 AW - Management Access Capital
Sub-total £ 8150 plus VAT, plus
machinery cleaning (£500) before
leaving site
5/11/2013 - K. Hill - Felling/Gate
31/10/13
removal etc in preparation for road
works plus miscellaneous emergencey
works along Aveton/Bedlime/Watkins
boundary following storm £ 1300 plus
VAT (reduce overall to £8050 plus VAT)
20/06/2013 - This estimate is based on 31/10/13
a site visit with contractor James Baron
in early May, the work is considered
essential as the track is potentially
dangerous for hauliers to use as they
have to reverse up to 300m in and out
of the site above a steep slope. Note
we will be left with a site where we can
offer parking for visitors, which we dont
23
Avon Valley Woods
have currently.
1. Improve the entrance by excavating
material off the bank and tipping on the
other side as discussed on site.
All excavated material will be
compacted in layers with a vibrating
roller. Estimated cost £4,500.00 + vat
2. Surface the access track and turning
area with stone, so it is suitable for
lorries Estimated cost £6,000 +vat
I suspect we will need a contingency of
£8k to allow for additional stone and to
widen the highway where its is very
narrow by cutting back the roadside
bank wiht an excavator. We will aslo
need to remove trees along the
roadside to improve sight lines and to
protect lorries from overhang.
I have submitted a Woodfuel WIG for
£10/15k.
2013 AW - Management Access Capital
24/09/2013 - Additional works at Aveton
( K. Hill) in preparation for harvesting
£870 plus VAT (reduce £18,500 to
£18,000)
4/11/2013 - J. Baron PO for £8650 for
roading, reduce overall to £9350 plus
VAT
5/11/2013 - K. Hill - Felling/Gate
rmeoval etc in prepartion for road works
plus misc emergencey works along
Aveton/Bedlime/Watkins boundary
following storm £ 1300 plus VAT
(reduce overall to £8050 plus VAT)
14/11/2013 - J. Baron - PO for
completing roading project to £6152
plus VAT (reduce overall to £1898 plus
VAT)
19/11/2013 - Kevin Harvey - H2
31/10/13
Environmental - earthworks for water
supply for grazing at Watkins £2104.24
plus VAT (reduce overall to zero)
24
Avon Valley Woods
2013 PE - Events - General
2013 AW - Management Access Capital
Apple Pressing Event - Centry Wood
Orchard
31/10/13
15/09/2013 - Event cancelled by
villagers
20/06/2013 - This estimate is based on 31/10/13
a site visit with contractor James Baron
in early May, the work is considered
essential as the track is potentially
dangerous for hauliers to use as they
have to reverse up to 300m in and out
of the site above a steep slope. Note
we will be left with a site where we can
offer parking for visitors, which we dont
have currently.
1. Improve the entrance by excavating
material off the bank and tipping on the
other side as discussed on site.
All excavated material will be
compacted in layers with a vibrating
roller. Estimated cost £4,500.00 + vat
2. Surface the access track and turning
area with stone, so it is suitable for
lorries Estimated cost £6,000 +vat
I suspect we will need a contingency of
£8k to allow for additional stone and to
widen the highway where its is very
narrow by cutting back the roadside
bank wiht an excavator. We will aslo
need to remove trees along the
roadside to improve sight lines and to
protect lorries from overhang.
I have submitted a Woodfuel WIG for
£10/15k.
24/09/2013 - Additional works at Aveton
( K. Hill) in preparation for harvesting
£870 plus VAT (reduce £18,500 to
£18,000)
4/11/2013 - J. Baron PO for £8650 for
roading, reduce overall to £9350 plus
VAT
5/11/2013 - K. Hill - Felling/Gate
25
Avon Valley Woods
rmeoval etc in prepartion for raod works
plus misc emergencey works along
Aveton/Bedlime/Watkins boundary
follwoing storm £ 1300 plus VAT
(reduce overall to £8050 plus VAT)
14/11/2013 - J. Baron - PO for
completing roading project to £6152
plus VAT (reduce overall to £1898 plus
VAT)
19/11/2013 - Kevin Harvey - H2
Environmental - earthworks for water
supply for grazing at Watkins £2104.24
plus VAT (reduce overall to zero)
2013 NWH - Maintenance Work
2013 WMM - General Site Management
Note we will need some funding to
cover repairs following harvesting and
for roadside resolving drainage. Quote
due for J. Baron
04/12/2013 - Money utilised to fund
29/11/13
chainswa work along extraction tracks
to help minmise harvesting damge to
coppice, to remove remaining trees
along road eshe caut up in the
tlelephone lines or with potential to
during harvesting and to fell blackthorn
on hedge where machines will access
wood. Speak with Paul Allen for more
detail and map.
c.f. Undertake 300 m of hedgerow
29/11/13
restoration £8 to 9 per linear metre
(speak to Barry Green of Green
Ecology for quote) Engage with
Woodleigh Activities Group in relation
to volunteering and woodfuel.
Quote for £2000 plus VAT to undertake
200 m of hedge laying between cpt 4
and 5 west of road, PO raised and work
completed, balance of £1k held for
future works.
15.11.2013 - Use balance to pay R.S.
Plant Hire £1200 pus VAT for "moling"
works to highway to lay new water
main.
29.11.13 - Sundry Purchase Order
Rasied and £1200 on this line zeroed.
26
Avon Valley Woods
2013 AW - Management Access Capital
2013 SL - Legal Obligation Work
Creation of interpretation sign, (artwork 29/11/13
presumed to have been developed in
2011) Note comments by former
trustee and wishes of parish council Consider EWGS options.
18/02/2013 - Delayed to 2013
assuming success with apple pressing
and pony grazing with DWT in autumn
winter of 2013/4
Tree Safety Operations
29/11/13
Zone A - Roadside boundaries Aveton,
Bedlime and Watkins
Zone B - Avon Woods PROW following
river
Assume 3 team days for two man tree
surgery team @ £480 per/team day.
ALL ABOVE CANCELLED TO BE
REPLACED BY AS FOLLOWS:
21/03/2013 - Utlise monies to cover
post flooding work on both the Avon
and Toor Brook as follows:
Avon River - as quoted by email
11/02/2013 £1960.00 plus VAT
Torr Brook - machine day as quoted by
email 11/02/2013 £460 plus VAT
Total £2420 plus VAT.
27
Avon Valley Woods
2013 SL - Legal Obligation Work
Email for A. Hill dated 4th June 2013
11.34am
29/11/13
1. Avon valley line ref; 7 I will use this
later in June, as the prolonged spell of
rain the ragwort seams a little slower
coming up this year. I’ve walked the
lower track by the river. The water level
has gone right down by the board walks
still could not find the pipe .But did find
some more blown Alders, see pic below
there are three in total which have
snapped rotted out. Price to clear will
be £380+vat
2. Also at the bottom of averton this
Beech has now come right down an is
resting on the bridge . This will be a bit
more involved as half the tree is in the
river over the bridge, A day for a
couple of guys and the digger and grab
would sort it £560 +vat.
3. Averton woods larch there are a few
broken stems leaning over, when they
fall they will hit the bt cable and the
road, its not that clear in the picture.
This would need a team of four due to
the close proximity to the road £580
+vat if there was time left more coppice
cutting could be carried out.
2013 SL - Safety / Legal Obligation Work
(SODS)
2013 NWH - Maintenance Work
4. Lastly sort out broken gate at
Watkins entrace by swapping broken
gate for gate into Bartlands and replace
broken padlock. £100+ Vat
Following notification of infection and
20/12/13
issue of Plant Health Notice undertake
tree removal at entrance to Aveton
Wood to ease lorry access for timber
felling and extraction.
3 m/days @ £145
Orchard - prune, re-stake and general
maintenance of all fruit trees
28
20/12/13
Avon Valley Woods
2013 WC - Tree Planting / Seeding
2013 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
2014 SL - Safety / Legal Obligation Work
(SODS)
Aveton Wood - sub cpts 4a - 1.34 ha
27/12/13
and 4e 2.73 ha - Re-stock ongoing
maintenance of small planted tree
groups, assume minimum of 2 weeding
operations with clearing saws plus
shelter maintenance and beat up at
year end. Clear restock planting areas
of all competing vegetation, straighten
stakes and tighten ties and replace any
losses.
UTLISE AS NECESSARY - 14 man
31/12/13
days removing ragwort by hand
(dig/pull) throughout control zones.
Arisings must be piled amongst trees
away from zone.
Mid July (weather dependant) Originally £1800
08/05/2013 - Broken Gate (replacement
, including padlock and chain) and
replacement of rails. £185 plus VAT
02/07/2013 - Aveton track clearance
£600 plus VAT
01/08/2013 - Fencing additional - H2O
Environmental. £837 plus VAT
24/09/2013 - Additional works at Aveton
in preparation for harvesting £870 plus
VAT
The overall volume of timber to be
31/01/14
felled is estimated at 2500
tonnes/metres. Because the Woodland
Trust financial year runs from Jan to
Dec the purchase order has been split
between 2013 and 2014. The first
purchase order for 2013 allows for 2000
tonnes/metres and the second for 2014
for 500 tonnes/metres.
Euroforest will process haulage tickets
weekly and they will issue an invoice to
the WT for the cost of the various
timber products as per the agreed unit
rates, at the same time they will make a
payment to the WT for the gross timber
value.
Assume gross costs £46,569 divided by
2500 = £18.62 per tonne/metre
29
Avon Valley Woods
Therefore the POs have been created
as follows:
2013 PO = 2000 x £18.62 = £37,240
2014 PO = 500 x £18.62 = £ 9,310
When processing invoices/payments by
Euroforest average the overall
invoice/payment values by the
assumed notional 2500 units.
OVERALL ESTIMATE TO WHICH WE
ARE BROADLY WORKING AS A
FINAL OUTCOME
Extract of email dated 23/08/2013 Please see below my estimated costs /
revenues for the standing sale:
Total Labour
Total Haulage
Total Sales
Margin
Re-instatement
2014 SL - Safety / Legal Obligation Work
(SODS)
£21650
£19250
£72600
£4356
£1313
Balance / Estimated Client Income
£26030
Gross Costs
£46569
The overall volume of timber to be
25/02/14
felled is estimated at 2500
tonnes/metres. Because the Woodland
Trust financial year runs from Jan to
Dec the purchase order has been split
between 2013 and 2014. The first
purchase order for 2013 allows for 2000
tonnes/metres and the second for 2014
for 500 tonnes/metres.
Euroforest will process haulage tickets
weekly and they will issue an invoice to
the WT for the cost of the various
timber products as per the agreed unit
rates, at the same time they will make a
payment to the WT for the gross timber
30
Avon Valley Woods
value.
Assume gross costs £46,569 divided by
2500 = £18.62 per tonne/metre
Therefore the POs have been created
as follows:
2013 PO = 2000 x £18.62 = £37,240
2014 PO = 500 x £18.62 = £ 9,310
When processing invoices/payments by
Euroforest average the overall
invoice/payment values by the
assumed notional 2500 units.
OVERALL ESTIMATE TO WHICH WE
ARE BROADLY WORKING AS A
FINAL OUTCOME
Extract of email dated 23/08/2013 Please see below my estimated costs /
revenues for the standing sale:
Total Labour
Total Haulage
Total Sales
Margin
Re-instatement
2014 SL - Safety / Legal Obligation Work
(SODS)
£21650
£19250
£72600
£4356
£1313
Balance / Estimated Client Income
£26030
Gross Costs
£46569
Restock of Aveton, some ground
preparation, storage and maintenance
in 2014 as e mailed on the 7/2/2014
31
28/03/14
Avon Valley Woods
2014 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
Continuation of 2013 works - extend
into overgrown tracks (Aveton) and
further rideside thinning please note
more extensive than cutting in 2103
(Torr Brook)
28/03/14
Aveton Wood - cut/coppice back
willow/gorse growing alongside and in
tracks. Arisings to be placed away from
path edges. Alternate sides/scallops.
Work to include all rides (harvesting
routes) and manual work to thin ride
edges.
Watkins Wood - permissve bridleway
along Torr Brook - cut/coppice back
overtopping trees in scallops growing
alongside and in tracks.
Complete work early to avoid nesting.
2014 WMM - General Site Management
2014 WMM - General Site Management
2014 SL - Legal Obligation Work
2014 WC - Shelter Supply / Erection
NOTE Annual operation maintenance
cut of current rides and opening up
edges and overgrown routes.
Work more expensive due to more work 28/03/14
required that previously thought £12.5
/m rather than £8/9 /m.
Hedge 2 (see report) Cut and lay inside
strip of roadside hedge 180 m (£8/9 per
linear m £1620 plus 3 m/day cutting out
woodfuel £450 and then clearance of
brash 1 machine day £180 ) ensure
better arrangments for clearing brash in
2014.(Total £2250)
Watkins Road side hedge laid with
28/03/14
scrub cleared, fire wood separated and
brash piled in wood.
To brash rake the site to clear debris
31/03/14
from larch clearfell to enable restocking
Watkins Wood (West)
18/04/14
To remove and recyle approximately
40,000 tree shelters from Watkins
Wood (West) 32
Avon Valley Woods
2014 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
2014 WMM - General Site Management
2014 WMM - General Site Management
2014 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
12 man days spot spraying ragwort
rosettes with Glyphosate 6l/ha. Cover
all control zones identified on map plus
adjoining infested areas if time permits.
Mid April (weather dependant)
(equivalent of 3 days of 4 man team).
To clear back hedge line to allow quad
bike access to collect tree shelters
Replacement of 100m of fenceline
along boundary with Aveton Farm.
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
19/04/14
30/04/14
30/04/14
09/05/14
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
2014 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
NEW 2013
1. Woodleigh/Titcombe Wood boundary
arera - cut rhododendron/laurel (stump
treat) and occasional conifer and then
return in the spring to stump treat (6
m/days cutting £810 1 m/days follow up
spraying £135)
2. Watkins Wood Sub Cpt 6a - re-spray
(1 m/day) rhododendron adjacent to
and above permissve bridleway along
Torr Brook. Rhododendron is present in
the "mature" woodland area of
Bushclose Copse. A number of clumps
adjcent to the path are obvious as they
were cleaned round as part of 2012
bridleway works to ease future working.
A series of clumps are present further
back into the wood. The precise
number of clumps and approximate
area need mapping and estimating.
33
30/05/14
Avon Valley Woods
2014 AW - Visitor Access Infrastructure
2014 SL - Tree Safety Emergency Work
2014 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
To repair storm damaged boardwalk on 31/05/14
public right of way in valley bottom.
To do tree safety work required due to 31/05/14
larch extraction and resultant wind blow
tree movement.
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
25/07/14
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
2014 NWH - Grazing Work
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
Work moved into 2015
31/08/14
Stock Fencing - As per H2 Quote 2302
Dates 19 July 2012 - Stockfence to to
Bottom Field Plantation - Bartlands
2014 SL - Safety / Legal Obligation Work
(SODS)
1. Stockfence 880m , gate and stile
£5951.80 plus VAT
2. Pasture Water Pump £922.76 (NOTE
review into alternative remains ongoing
as at 14/05/2013)
3. Estimate to resolve ongoing
boundary fencing issue with neighbour
Mr Merrin £5000
work put into 2015,
To complete the harvesting of the
31/08/14
phytophthora infected larch and thin the
Douglas Fir stands. This excludes the
track re-instatement as this will be
organsied by the Woodland Trust as
discussed on site.
This purchase order is linked to
previous purchase orders 503987.1 and
503986.1 and is to be netted off with a
sales invoice for the timber sales.
34
Avon Valley Woods
2014 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
26/09/14
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
2014 SL - Tree Safety Works - Zone B
2014 NWH - Invasive Plant Control
2014 AW - Visitor Access Infrastructure
2014 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
2014 AW - Management Access Capital
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
To clear the beech tree from across the
riverin the Avon Valley and clear the
fallen tree at Aveton Farm.
To hand pull ragwort from all open
space on the East side of Watkins.
To install 30m post and rail fencing, 2
12ft vehicle gates allowing for
pedestrian access adjacnet to both
gates in the 'turning circle' and timber
satcking bay to control access.
NOTE - Review this for 2014 as
budgeted before extent of ragwort in
2013 mapped.
30/09/14
30/09/14
01/10/14
30/10/14
12 man days spot spraying ragwort
rosettes with Glyphosate 6l/ha. Cover
all control zones identified on map plus
adjoining infested areas if time permits.
Mid April (weather dependant)
(equivalent of 3 days of 4 man team).
1. To reprofile the tracks and surface up 31/10/14
to the lorry turning circle using approx
220 tons of Quarry rubble and top dress
with 80 tonnes of 40mm limestone
scalpings
2. To install a concrete channel culvert
at the entrance to the wood and to put
in a silt trap for the 2nd culvert and
clear soil from around the exit pipe.
35
Avon Valley Woods
2014 PE - Events - General
2014 SL - Tree Safety Emergency Work
2014 SL - Legal Obligation Work
2014 NWH - Maintenance Work
2014 AW - Management Access Capital
Forest & Beach
Springdale
5 Orchard Close
Beeson
Kingsbridge
South Devon
TQ7 2HP
Hire of Forest and Beach Centre
Afternoon Forest School Session
To fell fallen tree blocking the PROW
footbridge at Bartlands
Tree Safety Operations
Zone A - Roadside boundaries Aveton,
Bedlime and Watkins
Zone B - Avon Woods PROW following
river
Assume 3 team days for two man tree
surgery team @ £520 per/team day.
Cutting of grazing areas subject to
grazing success ( assumes all three
proposed areas)
Creation of interpretation sign, (artwork
presumed to have been developed in
2013) Note comments by former
trustee and wishes of parish council Consider EWGS options.
36
31/10/14
21/11/14
28/11/14
28/11/14
28/11/14
Avon Valley Woods
2014 SL - Legal Obligation Work
2014 NWH - Maintenance Work
2014 SL - Tree Safety Emergency Work
2014 SL - Emergency Safety Works
2014 WC - Tree Planting / Seeding
2015 NWH - Grazing Work
2015 SL - Tree Safety Silviculture Work
2015 NWH - Initial Restoration Work
1. Watkins Roadside Boundary Roadside boundary requires
mechanised hedge cutting, in places
one side of road in others both sides of
road. Note land boundaries in red.
Southern boundary along lane requires
combination of manual cutting and then
mechanised hedge cutting. NOTE IN
2014 DO NOT TOP ROADSIDE
HEDGE EAST OF ROAD PLEASE
JUST SIDE UP INSIDE AND OUTSIDE
AS HEDGE DUE TO BE LAID IN 2016
2. Bedlime roadside boundary requires
combination of manual cutting and then
mechanised hedge cutting. Boundary
also along runs along driveway to
house and requires cutting.
3. Aveton Wood - Light trim of roadside
boundary - ensure no potential for
overhanging vegetation
Orchard - prune, re-stake and general
maintenance of all fruit trees
Clearance of large tree from Watkins
bridleway and from across river using
emegancy tree safety fund.
To replace culvert at Watkins wood with
2 600mm dia pipe to 8m and back fill.
Aveton Wood - sub cpts 4a - 1.34 ha
and 4e 2.73 ha - Re-stock ongoing
maintenance of small planted tree
groups, assume minimum of 2 weeding
operations with clearing saws plus
shelter maintenance and beat up at
year end. Clear restock planting areas
of all competing vegetation,
straighten/replace stakes and tighten
ties and replace any plant losses. Also
remove shelters from established trees.
Connection of 2nd trough at Watkins as
part of bringing mains water into the
site from SWW
To clear the fallen Pine in Centry Wood
- cut and chip leave logs for locals
To do soil analysis on the 3 grazing
compartments and a number of the
rides around Watkins wood.
37
30/11/14
19/12/14
24/12/14
24/12/14
26/12/14
31/01/15
31/03/15
31/03/15
Avon Valley Woods
2015 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
2015 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
2015 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
2015 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
12 man days spot spraying ragwort
19/04/15
rosettes with Glyphosate 6l/ha. Cover
all control zones identified on map plus
adjoining infested areas if time permits.
Mid April (weather dependant)
(equivalent of 3 days of 4 man team).
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
09/05/15
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines to 2m
width.
3. To mow the community grassland
area at Centry Wood.
4. Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
1. Woodleigh/Titcombe Wood boundary 30/05/15
arera - cut rhododendron/laurel (stump
treat) and occasional conifer and then
return in the spring to stump treat (6
m/days cutting £810 1 m/days follow up
spraying £135)
2. Watkins Wood Sub Cpt 6a - re-spray
(1 m/day) rhododendron adjacent to
and above permissve bridleway along
Torr Brook. Rhododendron is present in
the "mature" woodland area of
Bushclose Copse. A number of clumps
adjcent to the path are obvious as they
were cleaned round as part of 2012
bridleway works to ease future working.
A series of clumps are present further
back into the wood. The precise
number of clumps and approximate
area need mapping and estimating.
12 man days spot spraying ragwort
19/06/15
rosettes with Glyphosate 6l/ha. Cover
all control zones identified on map plus
adjoining infested areas if time permits.
(equivalent of 3 days of 4 man team).
38
Avon Valley Woods
2015 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
2015 NWH - Invasive Plant Control
2015 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
2015 PE - Events - General
2015 AW - Management Access Capital
2015 AW - Visitor Access Infrastructure
2015 NWH - Maintenance Work
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines to 2m
width.
3. Mow the community grassland area
at Centry Wood.
4. Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
UTLISE AS NECESSARY - 14 man
days removing ragwort by hand
(dig/pull) throughout control zones.
Arisings must be piled amongst trees
away from zone.
Mid July (weather dependant)
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Take a hay cut off all open areas.
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
Apple Pressing Event - Centry Wood
Orchard
Repair of tracks after Larch removal
25/07/15
01/09/15
26/09/15
31/10/15
31/10/15
To apply for permanent movement of of 31/10/15
PROW along the bottom of Avon Wood
to higher ground to allow safer and all
year round access along the PROW.
Cost includes clearing of vegetation for
new route and removal of the old
boardwalk. Devon CC may fund some
of the work.
Cutting of grazing areas subject to
28/11/15
grazing success ( assumes all three
proposed areas)
39
Avon Valley Woods
2015 SL - Legal Obligation Work
2015 PE - Interpretation & Signage
2015 WC - Site Maintenance
2015 NWH - Maintenance Work
2015 WC - Tree Planting / Seeding
2016 WMM - General Site Management
2016 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
Tree Safety Operations
Zone A - Roadside boundaries Aveton,
Bedlime and Watkins
Zone B - Avon Woods PROW following
river
Assume 3 team days for two man tree
surgery team @ £520 per/team day.
Creation of interpretation sign to show
how the Avon Valley Complex all links
together. Note comments by former
trustee and wishes of parish council Consider EWGS options.
beat-up only protected trees at 5%
Mechanical weeding of tree plots
concentrating on the1.5m
tubes (no chemical) - 2 cuts a year
Orchard - prune, re-stake and general
maintenance of all fruit trees
Aveton Wood - sub cpts 4a - 1.34 ha
and 4e 2.73 ha - Re-stock ongoing
maintenance of small planted tree
groups, assume minimum of 2 weeding
operations with clearing saws plus
shelter maintenance and beat up at
year end. Clear restock planting areas
of all competing vegetation,
straighten/replace stakes and tighten
ties and replace any plant losses. Also
remove shelters from established trees.
To lay, cross cut for commiity fire wood
and scallop and stack brash for Watkins
hedge running NW-SE
12 man days spot spraying ragwort
rosettes with Glyphosate 6l/ha. Cover
all control zones identified on map plus
adjoining infested areas if time permits.
Mid April (weather dependant)
(equivalent of 3 days of 4 man team).
40
28/11/15
30/11/15
30/11/15
19/12/15
26/12/15
28/03/16
19/04/16
Avon Valley Woods
2016 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
09/05/16
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
2016 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
2016 NWH - Invasive Plant Control
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
NEW 2013
30/05/16
1. Woodleigh/Titcombe Wood boundary
arera - cut rhododendron/laurel (stump
treat) and occasional conifer and then
return in the spring to stump treat (6
m/days cutting £810 1 m/days follow up
spraying £135)
2. Watkins Wood Sub Cpt 6a - re-spray
(1 m/day) rhododendron adjacent to
and above permissve bridleway along
Torr Brook. Rhododendron is present in
the "mature" woodland area of
Bushclose Copse. A number of clumps
adjcent to the path are obvious as they
were cleaned round as part of 2012
bridleway works to ease future working.
A series of clumps are present further
back into the wood. The precise
number of clumps and approximate
area need mapping and estimating.
UTLISE AS NECESSARY - 14 man
25/07/16
days removing ragwort by hand
(dig/pull) throughout control zones.
Arisings must be piled amongst trees
away from zone.
Mid July (weather dependant)
41
Avon Valley Woods
2016 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
25/07/16
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
2016 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
26/09/16
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
2016 PE - Events - General
2016 SL - Legal Obligation Work
2016 NWH - Maintenance Work
2016 WC - Site Maintenance
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
Apple Pressing Event - Centry Wood
Orchard
Tree Safety Operations
Zone A - Roadside boundaries Aveton,
Bedlime and Watkins
Zone B - Avon Woods PROW following
river
Assume 3 team days for two man tree
surgery team @ £520 per/team day.
Cutting of grazing areas subject to
grazing success ( assumes all three
proposed areas)
beat-up only protected trees at 5%
Mechanical weeding of tree plots
concentrating on the1.5m
tubes (no chemical) - 2 cuts a year
42
31/10/16
28/11/16
28/11/16
30/11/16
Avon Valley Woods
2016 NWH - Maintenance Work
2016 WC - Tree Planting / Seeding
2017 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
2017 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
Orchard - prune, re-stake and general
maintenance of all fruit trees
Aveton Wood - sub cpts 4a - 1.34 ha
and 4e 2.73 ha - Re-stock ongoing
maintenance of small planted tree
groups, assume minimum of 2 weeding
operations with clearing saws plus
shelter maintenance and beat up at
year end. Clear restock planting areas
of all competing vegetation,
straighten/replace stakes and tighten
ties and replace any plant losses. Also
remove shelters from established trees.
12 man days spot spraying ragwort
rosettes with Glyphosate 6l/ha. Cover
all control zones identified on map plus
adjoining infested areas if time permits.
Mid April (weather dependant)
(equivalent of 3 days of 4 man team).
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
43
19/12/16
26/12/16
19/04/17
09/05/17
Avon Valley Woods
2017 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
2017 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
NEW 2013
30/05/17
1. Woodleigh/Titcombe Wood boundary
arera - cut rhododendron/laurel (stump
treat) and occasional conifer and then
return in the spring to stump treat (6
m/days cutting £810 1 m/days follow up
spraying £135)
2. Watkins Wood Sub Cpt 6a - re-spray
(1 m/day) rhododendron adjacent to
and above permissve bridleway along
Torr Brook. Rhododendron is present in
the "mature" woodland area of
Bushclose Copse. A number of clumps
adjcent to the path are obvious as they
were cleaned round as part of 2012
bridleway works to ease future working.
A series of clumps are present further
back into the wood. The precise
number of clumps and approximate
area need mapping and estimating.
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
25/07/17
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
2017 NWH - Invasive Plant Control
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
UTLISE AS NECESSARY - 14 man
days removing ragwort by hand
(dig/pull) throughout control zones.
Arisings must be piled amongst trees
away from zone.
Mid July (weather dependant)
44
25/07/17
Avon Valley Woods
2017 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
26/09/17
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
2017 PE - Events - General
2017 NWH - Maintenance Work
2017 SL - Legal Obligation Work
2017 NWH - Maintenance Work
2017 WC - Tree Planting / Seeding
2018 WMM - Invasive Plant Control
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
Apple Pressing Event - Centry Wood
Orchard
Cutting of grazing areas subject to
grazing success ( assumes all three
proposed areas)
Tree Safety Operations
Zone A - Roadside boundaries Aveton,
Bedlime and Watkins
Zone B - Avon Woods PROW following
river
Assume 3 team days for two man tree
surgery team @ £520 per/team day.
Orchard - prune, re-stake and general
maintenance of all fruit trees
Aveton Wood - sub cpts 4a - 1.34 ha
and 4e 2.73 ha - Re-stock ongoing
maintenance of small planted tree
groups, assume minimum of 2 weeding
operations with clearing saws plus
shelter maintenance and beat up at
year end. Clear restock planting areas
of all competing vegetation,
straighten/replace stakes and tighten
ties and replace any plant losses. Also
remove shelters from established trees.
12 man days spot spraying ragwort
rosettes with Glyphosate 6l/ha. Cover
all control zones identified on map plus
adjoining infested areas if time permits.
Mid April (weather dependant)
(equivalent of 3 days of 4 man team).
45
31/10/17
28/11/17
28/11/17
19/12/17
26/12/17
19/04/18
Avon Valley Woods
2018 AW - Visitor Access Maintenance
1. Entrance Points maintenance (all
Avon Valley, including Aveton and all
planting phases) & clean signs
2. Cut all paths and desire lines.
3. Cut all areas of open ground as
agreed with site manager.
Minor maintenance and repairs to
access infrastucture to be undertaken
as part of cyclical cutting, all major
repairs to be reported.
NOTE: Cuts must be spread by 7
weeks to permit success of ground
nesting birds.
46
09/05/18
Avon Valley Woods
APPENDIX 1: COMPARTMENT DESCRIPTIONS
Cpt
No.
Area
(ha)
Main
Year
Species
Management
Regime
1a
12.95 Mixed
1950 High forest
broadlea
ves
2a
12.85 Mixed
1950 High forest
broadlea
ves
3a
14.76 Mixed
1950 High forest
broadlea
ves
Major
Management
Constraints
Key Features
Present
Designations
No/poor
Informal Public Ancient Semi
vehicular access Access
Natural
within the site
Woodland, Area
of Outstanding
Natural Beauty
BEDLIME WOOD – Ancient semi natural woodland, upland oak with close affinity to NVC type W10
principally stored coppice with uniform structure and species range. Downy birch is frequent as are
non-native sycamore and beech. Understory is dominated by hazel, with holly forming dense stands
in some areas and regenerating sycamore and beech throughout. Rowan, hawthorn is rare in
distribution. Sweet Chestnut forms dense canopy in the southern half of the wood. Ground flora,
locally dominant bluebell, bramble and greater woodrush, locally abundant broad buckler-fern,
frequent male-fern, scaly-male-fern, occasional wood anemone, bracken soft shied-fern, honey
suckle and hard –fern.
No/poor
Informal Public Ancient Semi
vehicular access Access
Natural
to the site
Woodland, Area
of Outstanding
Natural Beauty
TITCOMBE WOOD – Ancient semi natural woodland, compartment has a mainly westerly aspect,
sloping to the west, levelling close to the River Avon. To the north of the compartment the dominant
species is stored sweet chestnut coppice along with pole stage beech, silver birch and ash dating
from the post war period circa 1950. Occasional mature beech circa P1870 present throughout.
Alder dominates the lower slopes adjacent to the river with occasional poplar. Pole stage ash is
present midway through the stand established around 1965. To the south east there is a higher
incidence of mature and spreading beech trees with an infill of sycamore that has been coppiced.
The under storey is composed of hazel, elder, rowan and sycamore. Hazel coppice is abundant to
dominant in a small number of areas within the compartment. Current structure indicates a more
open canopy pre 1950 that may have been grazed and/or alternatively heavily felled during the war.
Ground flora varies in abundance throughout the stand but comprises of avens, nettle, bryophytes
including male, hard and harts tongue ferns, bramble, wood rush and dogs mercury.
No/poor
Informal Public Ancient Semi
vehicular access Access
Natural
to the site
Woodland, Area
of Outstanding
Natural Beauty
47
Avon Valley Woods
WOODLEIGH WOOD – Ancient semi natural woodland with westerly aspect. Oak and beech dating
from the 1950s is more prominent at the northern end of the compartment, including a small spur of
land planted with beech and hazel in 1985. Mature beech (est. P1870) are scattered throughout the
lower western edge, tending to be confined to boundary features. Occasional mature pine and larch
are also evident. Pole stage alder (P1965) is located along the lower wetter western boundary. The
remaining areas are dominated by sycamore coppice which forms around 50% of the canopy, with
oak, ash, silver birch and beech present. As with other ASNW compartments much of this
regeneration dates from the post war period (1950-1960) indicating areas of significant felling in that
period. Where the canopy structure permits hazel, elder, holly, beech, ash, sycamore and
honeysuckle is abundant and dominates resulting in greater shading. A seasonal pool rises and
floods an area adjacent to where the railway line embankment blocks an old bend in the original line
in the river. Ground flora comprises of bluebell, dog’s mercury, avens, bryophytes including hard
and male ferns, ground ivy and bramble. Outcrops provide a moist habitat where mosses cover the
exposed rock.
4a
2.96 Mixed
2014 PAWS
native
restoration
broadlea
ves
Informal Public Ancient
Access
Woodland Site,
Area of
Outstanding
Natural Beauty
AVETON WOOD - Former steep fields with established plantation of thinned Japanese larch
(P1964). Close to the entrance a small area of selectively thinned Douglas fir (P1964), slopes down
to a small stream feeing river Avon. Ground flora is abundant and species include bramble, bracken,
ivy, mosses and ferns. Tree form is generally good. An area of P55 Coppiced wet woodland,
including poplar present on a thin strip of wet ground surrounding the stream. Ground flora more
diverse close to the stream.
4b
1.50 Mixed
2004 PAWS
Informal Public Area of
native
restoration
Access
Outstanding
broadlea
Natural Beauty
ves
AVETON WOOD - PAWS Native species re-stock following clear-fell of DF in 2003. Combination of
natural regeneration of ash, birch, sycamore, hazel and occasional oak with small clumps of native
species planted to boost regeneration stocking. Ground flora currently smothered by dense bramble
and bracken. Base of shallow side valley draining into River Avon.
4c
3.01 Mixed
2014 PAWS
native
restoration
broadlea
ves
Informal Public Ancient
Access
Woodland Site,
Area of
Outstanding
Natural Beauty
AVETON WOOD - Straddling a small ridge, north facing slope is thinned larch (P72) whilst the south
facing is (P64), both areas of generally good form. Openness of the canopy has led to the
development of a rich understory. Ground flora is abundant and is dominated by bramble but is
richer than in 4a. Other species include bracken, fern, nettle, moss, ivy and honeysuckle.
48
Avon Valley Woods
4d
1.39 Mixed
2014 High forest
native
broadlea
ves
Informal Public Ancient
Access
Woodland Site,
Area of
Outstanding
Natural Beauty
AVETON WOOD - PAWS - East facing slope to river, dominated by Douglas fir (P. 1964) thinned in
2003 leaving relatively high quality timber stand, light levels limit development of understory. The
riparian strip by the River Avon contains occasional Beech Pollards (P1880), Alder Coppice (P1955)
and a significant Oak. At the top of the slope is a small area of mature sycamore and ash coppice
with standards. Bramble dominates the ground flora and other species include bracken, fern, ivy,
moss, wood sorrel and gorse. Spring line seepages occur seasonally and in these areas soils are
thin with high coverage of lower plants.
4e
2.63 Mixed
2004 High forest
native
broadlea
ves
Informal Public Ancient Semi
Access
Natural
Woodland, Area
of Outstanding
Natural Beauty
AVETON WOOD - PAWS - Native species re-stock following clear-fell of two former sub cpts in
2003. Combination of natural regeneration of ash, birch, sycamore, hazel and occasional oak with
small discreet clumps of native species planted to boost regeneration stocking. Ground flora
currently smothered by dense bramble and bracken. Steep slope to river mainly east facing.
4f
0.98 Mixed
1900 High forest
Very steep
Informal Public Area of
native
slope/cliff/quarry/ Access
Outstanding
broadlea
mine shafts/sink
Natural Beauty
ves
holes etc
AVETON WOOD - Relic area of Ancient Semi Natural Woodland at southern tip of Aveton Wood.
Canopy dominated by mature oak (P.1880), with some beech and sycamore. Holly forms an
increasingly dominant understory. Ground flora is frequent but declining, species include bluebell,
bramble, honeysuckle, ivy and fern. Exposed rock present and appears to have been quarried, with
small pits and gullies in places.
5a
23.37 Mixed
2004 Wood
Informal Public Area of
native
establishment
Access
Outstanding
broadlea
Natural Beauty
ves
WATKINS WOOD (West) the lower part of three fields (ex-arable) surrounded and divided by Devon
bank and hedges. Native woodland was planted 2004 based on NVC W8 Ash Maple and NVC W10
Oak bramble types found in adjacent mature semi natural woodland. Large areas of pure oak
remain weak and are yet to establish. Areas left to natural regeneration are dominated by extensive
ash regeneration at margins. Ragwort remains significant noxious weed issue annually. The fields
slope to the southwest and adjoin Woodleigh wood (Compartment 3a) forming a small valley 'bowl'
at the lowest point.
49
Avon Valley Woods
5b
3.71 Open
ground
2004 Wood
establishment
Informal Public Area of
Access
Outstanding
Natural Beauty
WATKINS WOOD (West) The upper part of three fields previously arable and now managed as
permanent pasture grassland recent grazing introduced to improve condition. Surrounded and
divided by Devon bank and hedges. The terrain is less steep, the western most field being the
highest and flattest providing important landscape views into the Avon Valley.
6a
47.74 Mixed
2002 Wood
Informal Public
broadlea
establishment
Access
ves
WATKINS WOOD (East) Series of woodland creation phase established on former arable cropping
between 2000 and 2003. Fields surrounded and partly divided by Devon banks and hedges with
some extensive open ground to retain views and open aspect on high ground, large open areas to
be developed as permanent pasture and grazed. Land slopes steeply to the east from the road
down to the Torr Brook which is lightly wooded along its entire length. Recently established
woodland species based on NVC W8 ash maple and NVC W10 oak bramble types found in adjacent
semi natural woodland. Arable weeds such as willow herb and ragwort continue to feature
extensively. The planting surrounds Bushclose copse a block of semi natural woodland which lies in
the centre of the eastern slopes. Comprising mainly oak, ash and beech over occasional Hazel
coppice with a bramble and bracken ground flora. A small unused barn is situated close to the edge
of the copse. In the north eastern section of the compartment is a low lying area close to Torr Brook
is bounded by native willow over a diverse area of wet grassland. There is a small copse of spruce
and willow (0.15ha - P1993) adjacent to the stream and bridleway.
6b
4.95 Mixed
2000 Wood
Informal Public
native
establishment
Access
broadlea
ves
CENTRY WOOD - Woodland Creation area of native broadleaves established in 2000 as part of the
“Woods On Your Doorstep” project. Former arable land surrounded by Devon banks and hedges. A
new hedge planted at the same time separates Centry Wood from Watkins Wood. The area falls
gradually to the eastern hedges. The open ground area also includes a small orchard of South
Devon Apple varieties and a large boulder of local stone as the Millennium Feature.
50
Avon Valley Woods
Appendix 2: Harvesting operations (20 years)
Forecast
Year
Cpt
2014
4a
2014
Operation Type
Work Area
(ha)
Estimated
vol/ha
Estimated total
vol.
Clear Fell
2.96
254
751.96
4c
Clear Fell
3.01
254
764.66
2014
4d
Clear Fell
1.39
254
353.12
2014
4e
Thin
0.90
40
35.81
2014
4f
Thin
3.46
40
137.67
2019
4f
Thin
3.46
22
75
51
Avon Valley Woods
GLOSSARY
Ancient Woodland
Ancient woods are defined as those where there has been continuous woodland cover since at least
1600 AD. In Scotland ancient woods are defined strictly as sites shown as semi-natural woodland
on the ‘Roy’ maps (a military survey carried out in 1750 AD, which is the best source of historical
map evidence) and as woodland all subsequent maps. However, they have been combined with
long-established woods of semi-natural origin (originating from between 1750 and 1860) into a
single category of Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland to take account of uncertainties in their
identification. Ancient woods include Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland and plantations on Ancient
Woodland Sites (see below). May support many species that are only found in ancient woodland.
Ancient Semi - Natural Woodland
Stands in ancient woods defined as those consisting predominantly of native trees and shrubs that
have not obviously been planted, which have arisen from natural regeneration or coppice regrowth.
Ancient Woodland Site
Stands in ancient woods that have been converted to plantations, of coniferous, broadleaved or
mixed species, usually for timber production, including plantations of native species planted so
closely together that any semi-natural elements of the understorey have been suppressed.
Beating Up
Replacing any newly planted trees that have died in the first few years after planting.
Broadleaf
A tree having broad leaves (such as oak) rather than needles found on conifers (such as Scots
pine).
Canopy
The uppermost layer of vegetation in a woodland, or the upper foliage and branches of an individual
tree.
Clearfell
Felling of all trees within a defined area.
Compartment
Permanent management division of a woodland, usually defined on site by permanent features such
as roads. See Sub-compartments.
Conifer
A tree having needles, rather than broadleaves, and typically bearing cones.
Continuous Cover forestry
52
Avon Valley Woods
A term used for managing woods to ensure that there are groups or individual trees of different
ages scattered over the whole wood and that some mature tree cover is always maintained.
Management is by repeated thinning and no large areas are ever completely felled all at once.
Coppice
Trees which are cut back to ground levels at regular intervals (3-25 years).
Exotic (non-native) Species
Species originating from other countries (or other parts of the UK) that have been introduced by
humans, deliberately or accidentally.
Field Layer
Layer of small, non-woody herbaceous plants such as bluebells.
Group Fell
The felling of a small group of trees, often to promote natural regeneration or allow planting.
Long Term Retention
Discrete groups of trees (or in some cases single trees) that are retained significantly past their
economic felling age. Operations may still be carried out within them and thinning is often necessary
to maintain stability.
Minimum Intervention
Areas where no operations (such as thinning) will take place other than to protect public safety or
possibly to control invasive exotic species.
Mixed Woodland
Woodland made up of broadleaved and coniferous trees.
National vegetation classification (NVC)
A classification scheme that allows an area of vegetation to be assigned to the standardised type
that best matches the combination of plant species that it contains. All woodlands in the UK can be
described as being one of 18 main woodland types (W1 - W18), which principally reflect soil and
climatic conditions. For example, Upland Oakwoods are type W11, and normally occur on well
drained infertile soils in the cooler and wetter north and west of Britain. Each main type can be
subdivided into numerous subtypes. Most real woods contain more than one type or sub-type and
inevitably some woods are intermediate in character and can't be properly described by any sub
type.
Native Species
Species that arrived in Britain without human assistance.
Natural Regeneration
Naturally grown trees from seeds falling from mature trees. Also regeneration from coppicing and
suckering.
53
Avon Valley Woods
Origin & Provenance
The provenance of a tree or seed is the place where seed was collected to grow the tree or plant.
The origin is the geographical location within the natural range of a species from where seeds/tree
originally derives. Thus an acorn collected from a Turkey oak in Edinburgh would have an Edinburgh
provenance and a southern European origin.
Re-Stocking
Re-planting an area of woodland, after it has been felled.
Shrub Layer
Formed by woody plants 1-10m tall.
Silviculture
The growing and care of trees in woodlands.
Stand
Trees of one type or species, grouped together within a woodland.
Sub-Compartment
Temporary management division of a compartment, which may change between management plan
periods.
Thinning
The felling of a proportion of individual trees within a given area. The remaining trees grow to fill in
the space created.
Tubex or Grow or Tuley Tubes
Tubes placed over newly planted trees or natural regeneration that promote growth and provide
protection from animals such as rabbits and deer.
Weeding
The control of vegetation immediately around newly planted trees or natural regeneration to promote
tree growth until they become established. Either by hand cutting or with carefully selected weed
killers such as glyphosate.
Windblow/Windthrow
Trees or groups of trees blown over (usually uprooted) by strong winds and gales.
The Woodland Trust, Kempton Way, Grantham, Lincolnshire NG31 6LL.
The Woodland Trust is a charity registered in England and Wales no. 294344 and in Scotland no. SC038885.
A non-profit making company limited by guarantee. Registered in England no. 1982873. The Woodland Trust logo is a
registered trademark.
54

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