Forestry operations at Mortimer Forest
Mortimer Forest is a working woodland producing sustainable timber. We are currently working in the Haye Park area of the forest (see map below).
Stay safe
Please follow all safety signage, closure information, diversions and instructions from operators. Please look out for moving vehicles and follow any instructions from the driver. Do not climb on stacked timber. A log can weigh up to a tonne and rolling logs can kill. Stacks are carefully made and may look stable but, if a log comes loose, others are likely to follow.
What is happening?
We will be thinning out the woodland by removing some of the trees to allow more space and light for the remaining trees to grow.
Can I still visit Mortimer Forest?
Black Pool Loop is currently closed and there is a diversion in place on Climbing Jack Trail. Walks from Vinnalls and Whitcliffe car parks remain open as usual.
The most important thing for Forestry England is to keep the public, our staff, and contractors safe. Mortimer Forest is open to visit but, when machinery is operating close to the forest road, public rights of way or waymarked trails diversions may be required and will be clearly signposted on site.
Bankspeople may also be present to help keep areas clear of people for short periods of time, please wait for instructions to pass if this is the case.
Any unofficial tracks or trails that cross the harvesting areas will be closed for the duration of the work.
What about the wildlife?
Harvesting trees is an important part of sustainable forest management and well managed forests support more wildlife. Before we start any forestry work, we carry out thorough ecological surveys to check for species such as birds, mammals, rodents, invertebrates, flora, and fungi. This enables us to identify ecological constraints such as the presence of European Protected Species and Schedule 1 protected birds, which affect the time of year when certain operations can be carried out.
We consider our findings against complex factors including tree health, how the ground slopes, soil condition, and likely rainfall when planning forestry work. While working, we continue to check for wildlife and adapt, pause, or suspend work if necessary.
Where can I find out more?
You can read our full management plan for Mortimer Forest in the Mortimer Forest Plan. If you have any questions, you can contact us at westengland@forestryengland.uk
