As a leading name in forestry and conservation contracting, Rose Tree Care was recently asked by Forestry England (Forestry Commission) to carry out careful tree felling and coppicing in Maulden Woods. The aim: to let more sunlight reach the woodland floor and improve habitat conditions for the local Hazel dormouse population.
Hazel dormice are a highly protected species in England, which meant our work had to be planned precisely. We collaborated closely with Forestry England’s ecologists and foresters to ensure all operations were completed within the short window between the dormouse breeding season and their winter hibernation.
To work efficiently, we mobilised our 8-tonne excavator equipped with a tree shear. This allowed us to fell coppice stools and small trees quickly and safely. The cut material was carefully laid over the coppice stools to protect them from deer browsing. As the stools regrow, they’ll produce dense, bushy vegetation, an ideal habitat for Hazel dormice and a key part of helping this protected species thrive.
Larger trees were hand-felled and extracted to the ride-side, ready for collection in the summer when the woodland is drier. This approach minimises track damage and allows the timber to be utilised, helping to offset some of the project costs.
Because Maulden Woods is heavily used by the public for recreation, public safety was a top priority. We implemented planned footpath closures and used banksmen to manage public movement and keep operations running smoothly.
Forestry England places a strong emphasis on safety and work quality, and they were impressed with our approach. Our forestry excavators are fully guarded for woodland work, and our operators hold both CPCS (Construction Plant Competence Scheme) and FMOC (Forest Machine Operators Certification Scheme) qualifications, ensuring the highest standards in mechanised tree felling.
Using our own lorry, we were able to deliver the excavator to site in-house, allowing rapid mobilisation without relying on external hauliers.
We’re excited to see how the woodland responds in spring new light reaching the ground, fresh growth emerging, and a richer range of species and habitats developing.
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