Uses of temperate deciduous woodlands, Epping Forest, Essex

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Uses of temperate deciduous woodlands- Epping Forest, Essex

Facts:

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The forest is north-east of London

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It covers 2,500 ha of land

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70% of the area is deciduous woodland, but there

is some grassland and marshes

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It’s home to a rich variety of wildlife

Early uses

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Since Norman times, the forest has been used to

graze animals and collect firewood

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It’s also been used for hunting deer

Early Management

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‘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

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1,600 ha of the forest has been designated a

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

Conservation

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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

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Some activities like cycling are restricted to

reduce soil erosion

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Ancient earthworks are preserved

·

Fallow deer, which have always lived in the

forest, are protected

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