330 November 2022 - Gryffe Advertizer

Branching Out at the Knapps
By Rona Simpson of Stanley Wright
An area, much loved by locals, is to be given an arboreal makeover by Milton Farm Partnership. The proposed plan is to plant 35 hectares surrounding
the Knapps Loch and nearby woodland with a mixture of broadleaved species of trees.
The reasons for planting are fourfold:– to provide a sustainable commercial benefit to the farmer; to enhance access through improved pathways; to
increase biodiversity; to increase carbon capture.
It is an area hugely popular with dog walkers and many others who use it for recreational purposes. With this is mind the forestry planner for the site has
identified the main pathways and earmarked them for an upgrade. Hopefully this will mean more people will be able to access the area in future – with
fewer soggy feet!
Understandably, some might resist the idea of changing this landscape, but the proposed plan has been sensitively designed to seamlessly incorporate
with the surrounding environment and existing woodlands. No planting is to take place on the front fields, which will be retained for future use for local
events.
A mixture of broadleaved
and native species has
been proposed for planting
– many of them native
varieties. These have been
chosen for their timber
qualities, impact on the
landscape and suitability
to the surrounding ecology
of the Knapps. Native
species are particularly
beneficial for biodiversity.
Yes, the landscape will
change, but it will bring
with it diversity and colour.
We should look forward to
some stunning arboreal
autumnal displays.
While the new trees
are taking root it will be
necessary to erect deer
fencing to protect them
from browsing by roe deer.
It will also be necessary to
ask dogwalkers to keep
dogs on leads (or under
control) within the fenced
areas so that the saplings
are not damaged. This will
only be for a short period
of time until the trees are
established.
Looking to the future, the timber grown will produce a variety of products as well as providing a valuable diverse habitat. Birds will build nests and small
mammals and invertebrates will, in time, make this new forest their home. It will also quickly begin to capture and store carbon – an important process
in our current climate. Furthermore, this new plan will provide another woodland area for our community to enjoy.
Next Deadline...
#331 December: 9th November
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