Coppicing
What is coppicing and what are the benefits?
Coppicing is an ancient form of woodland management where a tree or shrub gets cut down to a low level, which then encourages growth and new shoots to grow, forming a 'stool'. Traditionally, this was used to get a steady supply of timber, which could be used for firewood, building, fencing etc. This takes place in late winter or early Spring.
There are many benefits to coppicing and different coppicing stages support different species. For example, early on after the coppicing, flowering plants (e.g. bluebells and wildflowers), shrubs and grass are supported to grow as the light can get through the canopy and onto the woodland floor. This provides food and habitat for invertebrates and pollinators.
As the growth continues, a low woody habitat is formed, which is perfect for nesting birds and small mammals, such as hedgehogs and wood mice.
Overall, coppicing increases biodiversity. The Gardens Team are planning to restore old coppices on campus to their former glory – keep your eyes peeled for more information on this in the coming months.
If you would like to read more, check out this summary of Woodland Management Link opens in a new windowfrom the Woodland Trust.
Important - things to note:
- This is a physically demanding task
- You will be using a pruning saw - health and safety will be discussed on the day
- There are 15 spaces available for each session - please let us know if you can no longer make it so that we can give your place to someone else (no matter how late it is)
- Open to staff and students
- Sign up is essential (Sign up to Session 1 here Link opens in a new windowand Session 2 hereLink opens in a new window)
- Please bring sturdy gloves, wear sturdy footwear (NOT wellies), and wear warm clothing (e.g. fleeces, waterproofs, trousers)
If you have any questions about this activity, please email sustainability@warwick.ac.uk
Event details:
- Wednesday the 27th of November, 2024
- Led by Joe Hall from the Grounds and Gardens Team
- Meeting outside the Sports and Wellness Hub
- Two sessions: 10:30am-12pm, and 1pm-2:30pm