Volunteers from Surrey County Council and Milestone teamed up recently at Horsell Common, in order to undertake some important conservation work to clear Scots Pine tree saplings from the heathland. This work is essential to conserve the habitat of rare ground nesting birds such as the Nightjar, Woodlark and Dartford Warbler – as well as other species, helping to support their breeding populations, which are rapidly decreasing in south-east England.
Tree management is a key part of protecting the Common, because if the trees are allowed to dominate the open landscape, eventually they will take over creating a dense woodland, resulting in the loss of all the plants and animals which can only live on a heathland.
After & Before shot.
Rupert Millican, the Senior Ranger at Horsell Common said “The team from Surrey County Council and Milestone Infrastructure managed to clear a large section of Scots Pine tree saplings from deep within the heath on Horsell Common. This essential work will maintain the open heathland habitat, benefitting the rare wildlife it supports. As part of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area, Horsell Common is highly-protected for wildlife – this clearance work will help it retain this status, ensuring it remains available for future generations to enjoy.
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