Woodland Strategy 11.34 Mb - the Dorset AONB

Section 3
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imported timber, continuing these commercial forests is important to maintain the
production of quality timber whilst underpinning the current and emerging markets.
Traditional woodland management practices, such as coppicing and pollarding helped create
a wealth of biodiversity associated with the county’s trees, woods and forests. However,
with the greater availability of fossil fuel, plastic and metal alternatives and ever increasing
timber imports, many coppice woodlands became redundant and today many woodland
products such as charcoal, hurdles, thatching spars and construction timber are imported
from abroad because they are cheaper. This decline in woodland management subsequently
led to a decline in the biodiversity of Dorset’s woodlands, particularly butterfly and
woodland bird species. Many of these remaining trees and woodlands are of ancient
origin, and remain today as protectors of numerous rare native wildlife species and habitats.
The increase in deer and squirrel populations combined with inappropriate management
has resulted in a decline in many native woodland species such as common dormouse
(Muscardinus avellanarius), pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly (Boloria ephroyne), greater
and lesser horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum & R. hipposideros) and the spotted
flycatcher (Muscicapa striata). However, in many instances the planting and subsequent
management of forestry plantations has provided ideal habitats for many threatened species
such as bats, nightjar (Carpimulgus europaeus), smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and
Dartford warbler (Sylvia undata).
Ancient oak on bank in Harbins Park © Sean Cooch by kind permission of Harbins Park Farm
Orchards
Many traditional orchards, especially those which are no longer actively cultivated, face
the threat of neglect or removal to make way for housing developments, horse grazing
or intensive arable agriculture. Traditional apple, pear, plum, cherry and nut orchards have
changed from being part of most farms to rarities in most counties. Yet these orchards
are often the richest kinds for a huge diversity of wildlife, and vary enormously across the
country, creating distinctive and historic landscapes. Traditional orchards are cultural landmarks.
They are the source of genetic variety, local recipes and customs. They are home to the
hundreds of varieties of apples and other orchard fruits and are extremely biodiverse.
Forest and open heathland © David Rees