Trees are vital for wildlife, an essential home to many including birds, bats and butterflies. Our project will protect and restore natural woodlands across Hertfordshire and Middlesex and improve habitat for the rare and endangered species that rely on woodlands for their survival.
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Woodland wildlife is in trouble and biodiversity is declining. There has been a 90% reduction in woodland specialist birds, including the Lesser spotted woodpecker, since 1970 (Woodland Trust 2025). The biggest threat to woodland biodiversity is lack of proper management (Herts State of Nature 2020). Without action, woodlands become dense, dark, structurally simple habitats. Ash dieback is also a serious problem caused by a fungus that kills the tree. Where possible, infected trees are removed.
We desperately need sensitive management of woodlands to improve their ecological condition. We will run a programme of habitat restoration work, including appointing contractors for specialist work (e.g. large tree felling), running volunteer work parties, implementing tree safety/infrastructure measures and invasive species removal. We will also carry out surveying and monitoring, including tree safety and wildlife condition surveys, to help inform our work.
