Restoring Sherwood’s Southern Heathland

Through this project we would like to recreate heathland habitat on areas of Foxcovert Nature Reserve, through creation of scrapes in the grassland and spreading of heather brash, encouraging growth of heathland species. We will also install fencing around the developing heathland areas, allowing these areas to be grazed.

Hedgerows at the site will also be improved; sycamore trees are overshadowing one hedgerow on site, preventing hedge plants from growing properly. We will ‘crown-thin’ these trees, to allow more light to reach the hedge. On the opposite side of the site, a hedgerow requires coppicing and laying as well as some planting to improve its condition.

An interpretation board will be installed on site, to help visitors enjoy and understand its value for wildlife and the heathland recreation process.