Cherryrock Farm, Bristol
Published 16 January 2023
Applies to England
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Over two years, Mr Howes has planted a total of 18.54 hectares of new woodland on his farm.
Last year, with support from the Woodland Trust, Mr Howe planted 9.11 hectares of mixed deciduous woodland on his farm, Cherryrock. This year, a further grant delivered by the Forestry Commission has made it possible to plant another 9.43 hectares on nearby land.
The woodlands will help to improve soil and water quality, give shade and shelter to livestock and reap the benefits of a year round crop.
As a retired farmer, the grant delivered by the Forestry Commission has enabled me to establish woodland and also secure for ten years a similar income from the land that would be gained from rental.
Not only are the trees a tribute to Janet, but all woodlands benefit the environment aesthetically and practically, and form one of the best, lasting legacies for the generations who succeed us.
As part of the woodland creation, Mr Howes has been working with the Forestry Commission to design woodland that delivers the provision of habitat for Willow Tit and other wildlife, helps to improve water quality and supports the local environment in dealing with increased rainfall from climate change.
Public footpaths run through the site and the new woodland also offers future screening potential to the nearby wind Turbine.
I take great pleasure from helping to create woodland and would encourage others to do it, says Mr Howes.
I hope that it brings pleasure to all, and will be appreciated for the many different qualities for which woodlands worldwide are essential.
Going forward, the Forestry Commission will be on hand with advice regarding the management and protection of the trees to ensure the survival of plantings.
Managing woodland does require commitment to ensure optimal survival of the trees, adds Mr Howes.
There may be a need for weed suppression during early years, ensuring that tree guards stay upright and helping to minimise damage by deer and squirrels, but there are funds available from Natural England for this maintenance and basic payments continue for the first 10 years.
And this isn’t Mr Howes’ first venture into woodland creation.
Twenty-two years ago, in memory of my wife, I planted an oak woodland on part of my farm. Not only are the trees a tribute to Janet, but all woodlands benefit the environment aesthetically and practically, and form one of the best, lasting legacies for the generations who succeed us.