Coppicing Weekender - Good for you, good for wildlife
Description
Join us for a comprehensive weekend course on coppicing, a traditional method of woodland management. This course is designed to provide you with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in coppicing. We will be coppicing hazel in the semi-ancient natural woodland of Voltaire's Wood, known on the maps as Hazel Wood. The abundance of historic coppice here used to provide fuel and furniture materials for the local area. Here's what you can expect to learn: Saturday: 11:00am - 12:30pm: Woodland Structure and Coppicing Introduction. Start your coppicing journey with an in-depth understanding of woodland structure. We'll discuss the different layers of a woodland, from the canopy to the understorey, and their importance in a healthy woodland ecosystem. This session will also introduce you to coppicing, its history, and the types of trees suitable for this method. 1:30pm - 5:00pm: Practical Coppicing After lunch, we'll move on to the practical aspect of coppicing. You'll learn how to use hand tools effectively and safely to cut down stems. We'll cover different cutting techniques, including how to make a clean cut to promote healthy regrowth. There will be a break for tea to ensure you stay refreshed and energised. Sunday: 10:00am - 1:00pm: Coppicing and Biodiversity We'll start the day with more coppicing, giving you the chance to refine your skills. Then, we'll shift our focus to the role of coppicing in promoting biodiversity. We'll explore the woodland, identify wildflowers, and discuss the nourishment cycle supported by coppicing. 1:00pm: Lunch Enjoy a break for lunch and some time to relax and appreciate the woodland surroundings. 2:00pm - 4:30pm: Tidying Up and Uses of Coppice Materials After lunch, we'll tidy up the coppiced area, discussing the importance of this step in maintaining a healthy woodland. We'll also cover the uses of coppice materials, including the brash. You'll learn how these materials can be used for various purposes, from firewood to crafts. At the end of the course, you're welcome to take a couple of bundles of rods home, providing a tangible reminder of your weekend in the woods and perhaps the start of your own coppicing projects. This course offers a blend of education and hands-on experience, providing a comprehensive introduction to the art of coppicing. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just curious about traditional woodland management, this course will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need. You are welcome to camp out in the woods on the Saturday night - weather and your personal levels of hardiness permitting. We also have an A-frame to retreat to in the day should there be heavy rain but any good coppicer loves a little drizzle. There are a range of B&Bs in the vicinity if you'd prefer traditional lodgings for the night.
What's included in the price?
A comprehensive introduction to copping. Training on using small saws and billhooks. A bundle of rods from the coppice.
Duration
2 days
Cancellation policy
Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts
Maker
An ancient woodland near Stroud in Gloucestershire, thriving under new management. Voltaire is the name of our house dog.
Suitable for
- Adults
- Seniors
- Teenagers
- Suitable for beginners
- Mother's Day
- Accommodation offered
- Parking provided
- Corporate days out & team building
- Father's Day
