Coppicing is an age-old method of woodland management that involves cutting down a tree to a stump, encouraging new shoots to grow from the stump or roots, thereby promoting the regrowth of the tree. This traditional technique has been practiced for centuries and has had a significant impact on the landscape and biodiversity in many parts of the world.
The Process of Coppicing
In coppiced woodlands, young tree stems are repeatedly cut down to near ground level, resulting in living stumps called stools. These stools produce new growth, and after a certain number of years, the coppiced trees are harvested, and the process begins again. This cycle allows the woodland to be harvested in sections or "coups" on a rotation, ensuring that a crop is available each year somewhere in the woodland.
Benefits for Biodiversity and Habitat
Coppicing has the effect of providing a rich variety of habitats. As the woodland always has a range of different-aged coppice growing in it, this diversity is beneficial for biodiversity. The increased light levels after cutting enable woodland-floor vegetation to thrive, attracting insects, small mammals, and various bird species. Woodpiles left in the coppice also provide homes for insects such as beetles, further enhancing the ecosystem.
History and Cultural Significance
The practice of coppicing can be traced back to prehistoric times, and evidence suggests that it has been continuously practiced since then. Coppiced stems are characterized by their curved base, which can be identified in archaeological sites. Coppicing was initially used for small wood production, but over time, it evolved to include other purposes such as feeding pigs with acorns and producing wood for various industries.
In England, coppicing played a vital role in the iron production industry and contributed to the country's economic growth in the 16th and 17th centuries. However, with the development of alternative materials such as coal and new construction methods, coppicing declined in popularity, leading to the abandonment of many coppiced woodlands.
Coppicing Today
Although the practice of coppicing has diminished over the years, there is still a small but growing number of people who make a living by working coppices. Conservation organizations also manage some coppiced woodlands to preserve their ecological value. One notable example is the production of sweet chestnut coppice in parts of Sussex and Kent, which is used for fencing and other crafts.
Coppicing for Energy Wood
Coppicing has also shown potential as a sustainable source of energy wood. Species such as willow, alder, and poplar can be coppiced for this purpose, with regular cuts to maximize production volume. However, careful management and fertilization are necessary to maintain soil fertility and ensure the long-term sustainability of the practice.
Conclusion
Coppicing is a traditional woodland management technique that has shaped landscapes and provided valuable resources for centuries. While its popularity has declined in recent times, the ecological and economic benefits it offers should not be overlooked. By embracing this age-old practice and adapting it to modern needs, we can continue to benefit from the sustainable management of our woodlands.
References:
- Rackham, Oliver (2001). Trees and woodland in the British landscape: the complete history of Britain's trees, woods & hedgerows. London: Phoenix Press. ISBN 1-84212-469-2.
- Hammersley, G, 'The charcoal iron industry and its fuel 1540-1750' Econ Hist. Rev. Ser. II, 26 (1973), 593-613.
