As you wander through our lovely woodland you’ve probably spotted some felled trees on the ground. Or perhaps you’ve wondered why there are orange crosses on some of the trees…
Sadly, a large number of our mature ash trees are suffering ash dieback.
What is ash dieback?
Ash dieback is a lethal fungal disease currently affecting 80% of UK ash trees in the UK.
It spreads from tree to tree by birds, pollinators, and by people potentially carrying the disease on the bottom of shoes as they move from place to place. Ash trees are incredible at self-seeding but this has also encouraged further spread of the disease.
How does ash dieback affect the trees?
As the disease takes hold of the tree, branches will die. These branches can fall to the ground in windy conditions. The disease then spreads to the trunk of the tree, and the tree will begin to rot from the inside. Eventually, the tree will die.
What can we do to help stop the spread of ash dieback?
There is currently no cure for ash dieback, so to make sure our woods are safe for you to walk around, we have to fell the infected trees.
Can you replace the ash trees?
Yes! We are in the process of felling ash trees that are close to the trails in the woods, but we will be replanting with new native broadleaf trees. Over time, these trees will grow and create a new canopy within the woods for future generations and wildlife to enjoy.
How can I find out more?
To find out more about ash dieback and how it is affecting woodlands throughout the UK check out the Woodland Trust website.
Do you want to get involved?
If you love nature and you’d like to get involved and volunteer as part of our woodland management team, please email our Morgan, our Community Woodland Lead, for more information: morgann@ameliatrust.org.uk.
