Woodland baselines across Our Farms

Key findings

• Total woodland area on surveyed farms = 101.59ha of approx. 2,003ha which equates to 5% of total farm area.
• Broadleaf woodland = 92.15ha equates to 92% of total woodland area.
• Conifer plantations = 9.44ha equates to approx. 8% of total woodland area.
• Linear hedgerows = 158,689m of which approx. 7,000m were under 30 years old.
• Mature tree canopy within linear hedgerows 43.71ha (Mature tree canopy width within the hedgerow has been set at 10m (this being the minimum average measurement identified).
• All woodlands were unmanaged
• Woodlands were predominantly Semi Natural with <10% classified as ancient woodlands.

Background

This project involved surveys conducted on 15 farms engaging and participating in the Our Farms, Farming Connect Programme and this initial assessment is vital for developing an on farm Natural Capital Assessment (NCA).

The need for a woodland and hedgerow assessment specifically will forge an understanding of its current condition, inform effective management, meet regulatory requirements, monitor change, and enhance its ecological, economic, and amenity value. It's a fundamental step towards responsible and effective woodland management, providing the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, protect and enhance the woodland's value, and potentially access financial support.

Purpose of the work

• Identify the types and extent of woodlands and non-woodland trees (hedgerows, lone trees) present on farms.
• Quantify the area of tree cover relative to the total farm holding size.
• Assess current management practices for these habitats.
• Determine prescriptions for implementing a program of works for improvement.
• Identify commonalities and consistencies across the surveyed farms.

Outcomes

Woodland Landscape and Classification

The Our Farms network features diverse woodlands, mainly in unproductive areas and supplemented by small tree groups near former dwellings or old field boundaries. Many fields have veteran parkland trees, primarily Sessile and Pedunculated Oak, which provide shelter for livestock and boost biodiversity. A notable "wood pasture" habitat, a Biodiversity Action Plan priority, supports unique flora, fauna, and fungi, with grazing animals playing a crucial role in maintaining its semi-open structure.

Woodland types include Upland Ash woodlands (mixed species) and Upland Oakwoods (dominated by Sessile and Pedunculated Oak with some Birch and Rowan). The understory largely consists of Holly, Rowan, Hawthorn, and Hazel, with Goat Willow in wetter areas. Richer communities with Ash and Wych Elm thrive in areas with more alkaline soils, while damp conditions support various ferns, mosses, and liverworts. Riparian woodlands along watercourses are vital for freshwater ecosystems and offer significant habitats, with recent interventions like thinning and fencing improving their function and protecting water resources.

Conifer Plots

Approximately 8% of the woodland area comprises unmanaged conifer plots, mostly Douglas Fir and Sitka Spruce, planted between the 1960s and early 1990s, likely for livestock shelter. These plots are generally unmanaged, leading to stunted growth and low yield. While "wolf trees" on the edges offer some protection, the overall shelterbelt functionality has declined, making them vulnerable to wind damage.

From an ecological perspective, these plots are currently of low biodiversity value. However, their age makes them suitable for felling, presenting an opportunity for restocking with diverse native broadleaf species. This would enhance ecological conditions, improve shelter for livestock, and increase resilience to climate change. Timber felling is expected to be financially beneficial, especially with future agricultural support schemes.

Woodland Condition and Management Opportunities

Most woodlands on the farms are in moderate to poor ecological condition due to a lack of active management. However, there are significant opportunities for improvement through strategic thinning, enrichment planting with native species, and controlling competing vegetation. Practices promoting natural regeneration and diverse microhabitats will also enhance resilience.

There's high potential for new woodland creation across most farms, which can align with farming objectives by providing shelter and shade for animals, while also benefiting nature. Funding support may be available through schemes like the Woodland Creation Planning Scheme or the Small Grant - Woodland Creation scheme. The wider treescape, including trees outside defined woodlands, contributes significantly to ecological connectivity, benefiting biodiversity, soil health, carbon storage, and livestock welfare.

Tree Health

Ash dieback is universally present on all surveyed farms, causing the decline of ash trees and making them vulnerable to secondary infections. This poses significant health and safety risks, particularly near public rights of way, necessitating management interventions. Phytophthora disease of alder was also observed on two farms along watercourses.

Woodland Use and Management History

Historically, woodlands were primarily used for firewood. While most areas were fenced, livestock often accessed riparian zones through watercourse intersections, hindering natural regeneration. Despite this, woodland edges consistently provided valuable shelter for livestock.

Moving forward, there are opportunities to diversify woodland use and enhance ecological value. Robust fencing along watercourses is crucial to prevent livestock access and encourage regeneration. Exploring initiatives beyond firewood, such as small-scale timber production, non-timber forest products (e.g., foraging), or even educational access, could generate additional benefits and revenue, balancing economic use with ecological restoration.

Overview of hedgerows on Our Farms: Condition, Management, and Ecological Value

Hedgerows are integral features of our farm landscapes, serving as vital ecological corridors, providing shelter for livestock, and contributing significantly to biodiversity. During the survey information was collected on the hedgerow networks across our farm blocks, assessing their current condition, management practices, and ecological significance.

Our farms encompass approximately 158,689 metres of hedgerows. The condition of these hedgerows varies across the different land areas.

Conclusion

The overall wider treescape on our farms is highly positive. Hedgerow management is generally very good, resulting in a network of hedgerows that are common to the areas and exhibit above-average structural specifications. Many of these hedgerows are species-rich, robust, and in good condition, assessed as having high ecological value.

The double fencing implemented during restoration work under agri-environment schemes has significantly contributed to the vibrant growth and robust structure of hedgerows, enabling them to bulk up effectively creating a robust structure. While primarily designed to strengthen field boundaries, these well-established hedgerows now provide multifunctional benefits for both nature and livestock.
A notable feature is the relatively large number of mature hedgerow trees and a smaller number of mature in-field trees. Some of these, along with certain trees within woodlands, even meet veteran tree criteria, indicating their advanced age and ecological significance.

While woodlands currently suffer from a lack of management and widespread ash dieback, there are clear, financially prudent opportunities for active intervention, restoration, and new planting. The well-managed hedgerow network demonstrates the positive impact of targeted interventions. The report emphasises the urgent need for a renewed commitment to protecting and enhancing these natural assets, recognising the pivotal role farmers play in building resilient, biodiverse, and productive Welsh landscapes for future generations.

Please contact timtechnegolcff@mentera.cymru if you would like to receive a copy of the full final report for this project.