Our story
The Llangattock Community Woodlands Group has developed a multi-year project partnership with the warden team from Brecon Beacons National Park, operating along the pathways of the River Usk. Together, we cover a range of activities from tree felling to planting, beekeeping, boosting local diversity while clearing invasive plant species.
Tree felling:
Many small woodlands are dominated by tall, thin trees fighting for light. These create dense shade near the ground and restrict the range of plants that can flourish. We fell trees selectively to allow light in, promote sturdier tree growth and encourage a wider range of wildlife habitats. We also deal with storm-damaged trees to reduce the danger of falling trees and branches. Whatever the reason for felling, the resulting trunks and branches are cut into manageable lengths and stacked tidily for seasoning.
Tree planting:
Wherever appropriate, we plant new trees. On the edge of woodlands these form natural boundary hedges and with careful management in the future will add to the diversity of the woodlands as a whole. For more on tree planting, search "Stump Up For Trees" website.
Beekeeping:
Keeping bees has become a significant area of activity in recent years. We manage a number of hives and sell honey, mead and beeswax products.
Environment/ biodiversity:
Active management means working in harmony with woodlands, restoring their natural multi-layered structure and creating the ideal conditions for a rich mix of plant, animal, bird and insect life. We are developing habitats that support pollinating insects and have now established honeybee colonies in one of the woodlands.
Clearing invasive plants:
Cherry laurel, rhododendron, snow-berry and Himalayan balsam have spread aggressively in parts of the woodlands we manage, crowding out native plants and reducing wildlife habitat. We work to eradicate the invaders, and then replant cleared areas with native species.
Our advice
Work with local partners so you can have a bigger impact. Currently, in partnership with Canal & River Trust and The Woodland Trust, most of our activity is concentrated on a couple of their woodlands that border the Monmouthshire and Brecon Canal. We've also had a close relationship with Llangattock Green Valleys, with whom we share an aim to promote sustainable energy. In particular, we process felled timber into woodfuel and charcoal, which we sell in the local area.
Our Changeprint
Our Changeprint can be measured by the number of new trees planted; expansion of wild flower meadow growth; local bee populations; habitat restoration and creation; increase in native plant species; and the enjoyment people get from access to woodlands.
