Forestry operations at Mortimer Forest
Mortimer Forest is a working woodland producing sustainable timber. We are currently working on the western side of the forest.
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 are thinning trees around Juniper Hill and to the south of Vinnalls in Mortimer Forest. This means removing selected trees for timber products. This gives the remaining trees more space and light to grow to their full potential. Thinning also lets more light onto the forest floor, which improves the habitat for ground flora and the wildlife it supports.
While contractors and machinery are on site, we are taking the opportunity to clear storm damaged trees in other areas of the forest, as well as removing trees infected with Chalara ash dieback. These works will be carried out between Sunny Dingle and Mary Knoll Valley and in Aston Copse.
We expect contractors to be on site from mid-May, with work likely to continue for several months.
Once harvesting is complete and all the timber has been removed from site, we will assess the condition of the forest roads, waymarked trails and Public Rights of Way and arrange for any necessary reinstatement work.
Can I still visit Mortimer Forest?
Access to as much of the forest as possible will be maintained during the harvesting operations. When machinery is operating close to the forest road, public rights of way or way marked trails, diversions or temporary closures may be required and will be clearly signposted on site. Bankspeople may also be present to help keep you safe by asking you to wait for short periods of time.
Any unofficial tracks or trails identified that cross the harvesting areas will be closed for the duration of the work.
Please continue to follow the diversion for the Vinnalls Loop and Climbing Jack trail along the forest road.
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. There isn’t a single, perfect time of year for 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
