Uses of temperate deciduous woodlands, Epping Forest, Essex

Uses of temperate deciduous woodlands- Epping Forest, Essex

Facts:

The forest is north-east of London

It covers 2,500 ha of land

70% of the area is deciduous woodland, but there

is some grassland and marshes

It’s home to a rich variety of wildlife

Early uses

Since Norman times, the forest has been used to

graze animals and collect firewood

It’s also been used for hunting deer

Early Management

‘Pollarding’ was used to manage the woods- the

trees were cut at shoulder height for firewood, but they were still able to

reshoot and grow back again

In the 19th century, people tried to

buy parts of the forest

In 1878 the Epping Forest act meant that the

forest should be ‘kept unbuilt on and as an open space for recreation’

Recent management

1,600 ha of the forest has been designated a

Site of Special Scientific interest, and also a European Special Area of

Conservation

This means there are laws to protect the ancient

trees, which support the ecosystem of flora and fauna

Recreation is managed by providing car parks,

toilets and refreshments for visitors

Easy access parks allow for people with

disabilities to visit

Old trees are allowed to die naturally unless

they are dangerous

Re-pollarding ancient trees

Some activities like cycling are restricted to

reduce soil erosion

Ancient earthworks are preserved

Fallow deer, which have always lived in the

forest, are protected

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