What's new in Epping Forest
The River Ching Action Plan
Tackling poor water quality in our local rivers and ponds is something we take very seriously, as our Chairman explains in his latest update:
"We have recently partnered with the Environment Agency, Thames21 and the London Borough of Waltham Forest to launch the ‘Ching Action Plan’. The river is home to a wide range of wildlife and plays an important role in the ecosystem of the Forest. Yet sadly, it is adversely affected by household misconnections, sewage pollution, road run-off, and commercial activities. This project will not only improve the water quality but also help to restore biodiversity, reduce pollution, and combat the effects of climate change across the more urban areas of Epping Forest. There will be plenty of volunteering opportunities, so please send an email if you’d like to sign up."
Reintroduction of bell heather to Epping Forest
On 1 November Epping Forest was delighted to partner with Essex Wildlife Trust to reintroduce a delicate heathland species, bell heather, to Warren Hill in Loughton. Bell heather was once present at Long Running heath but disappeared from the Forest over 50 years ago as it has specific habitat needs, making it vulnerable to habitat loss. We are grateful to Botanist Dr Paul Fletcher, and the Essex Wildlife Trust, for their work in propagating eight bell heather plants from the only known location in Essex, at Tiptree Heath nature reserve. This project represents an exciting partnership opportunity to enhance Epping Forest’s rich and diverse heathland habitats and is an important contribution to Essex’s Local Nature Recovery Strategy.
Habitat Restoration Programme
Leyton Flats
We will be undertaking conservation work at Leyton Flats from 28 October until early December. This work focuses on a mixture of wood pasture and acid grass heath habitats in order to:
Restore the ancient acid grassland. This habitat has declined across the UK leaving less than 30,000ha. Removing holly and trees that have encroached will help key grassland plant species and the wildlife they support.
Regenerate the area east of Cow Pond by opening-up historic glades and creating corridors to enhance habitat connectivity for insects, bats, and birds. These connections between habitats will support wildlife movement and population spread.
Reveal the veteran oak trees between Hollow Pond and Eagle Pond by thinning the trees, holly and scrub understory. The increased light levels will help them live longer while encouraging forest floor plants to re-establish.
How you can help
Be aware that this work will necessitate the presence of vehicles and machinery. Please follow all posted signs and instructions during the work period to keep everyone safe.
Be prepared that this important habitat restoration work may initially look severe and be reassured that it will deliver long-term benefits.
Be gentle afterwards, avoid disturbing the bare ground to allow forest floor and grassland plants to regrow.
Thank you for your support in helping Epping Forest flourish.
If you would like to volunteer with our ongoing conservation work, you can find more information on our Volunteer at Epping Forest webpage.
Things affecting your visit
Maintenance
- Rural wood chip collection – Bury Road chip site
- Tree safety works - Forest-wide
- Tree surgery - Bury Wood
- Groundworks - Great Gregories
- Various grass cutting - Forest-wide
- Annual tree survey - north of the Forest
NB: Contract work is dependent on weather and ground conditions.
Volunteer Tasks
Highams Park Snedders
No tasks
Epping Forest Heritage Trust
Green Team
No tasks
Green Team 2
No tasks
Happy Loppers
No tasks
Epping Forest Conservation Volunteers
No tasks
Chairman of the Epping Forest and Commons Committee
Latest Updates
Forest Focus
A monthly newsletter to keep you up to date on the what's happening across the year.
- Forest Focus December 2024
- Forest Focus November 2024
- Forest Focus October 2024
- Forest Focus September 2024
- Forest Focus August 2024
- Forest Focus July 2024
- Forest Focus June 2024
- Forest Focus May 2024
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