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This site is situated on a high edge of the Teign valley near Dunsford, with views to Exmoor and Wales on a clear day.
In the winter of 2004/05 we planted two extensions totalling 2.1ha (5.2 acres) to the existing ancient woodland of 5.1ha (12.6 acres). There are many ancient woodland remnants in the lower-upper reaches of the Teign Valley, the most famous of which is Dunsford Wood for its wild daffodils. Some like this one, however, are isolated by conifer plantations around them and it is vitally important to extend and link them to give a chance of survival to the huge diversity of plants that are found here.
Planting was difficult, with several dates cancelled due to snow and ice. When we did finally manage to get going we had bramble, bracken and nettles to contend with, but it was worth it to see the new trees come into leaf alongside the tens of thousands of bluebells. Thanks goes out to over 60 volunteers who helped plant nearly 1200 trees in all weathers - Mother Nature's simulation of a 'dry hail machine' was a real test!
Maintenance at this site is crucial to ensure that the young trees are not swamped in the early years by the bracken and bramble and we are committed to visiting at least 3 or 4 times in the spring, summer and autumn until 2009. Please do join us to enjoy these enchanting woods, with their own caves and mini Tor, look out for dates on our website.
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