Dave Dibden: tel 023 8087 2679

Coppicing is a term which means ‘to cut’ and is derived from the French word ‘couper’. Coppicing may look drastic, but is essential for much of our best-loved wildlife which may be threatened with extinction if this is not continued.

There are many different types of trees which when cut at their base, rather than growing one single stem, a number of new shoots are produced. In this traditional management system, trees are regularly cut to the ground and re-grow with several stems, providing the wood needed for a wide range of produce. The new growth sprouts are commonly called a stool. These stools can be cut over and over again.

Coppicing occurs during the ‘winter’ months (from Oct to Mar) when there is little or no sap in the tree. Time between cuts varies depending on the intended use of the wood, but needs to be regular so that there are always some open areas where warmth and light can reach the ground. This is normally in 8 – 10 year cycles, with an area cut each year, and this must be maintained to ensure continuity of open space.

The open space encourages plant growth and insect activity, but this effect decreases yearly as trees re-grow until branches meet overhead, and light can no longer reach the woodland floor.

A variety of insects, butterflies and plants will return to the clearings, which otherwise would not be possible under the dark canopy of the more mature trees.

The birds, insects and butterflies will then move on from one newly coppiced area to another to complete their cycle. Nothing is wasted from the woodland and I use the skills gained to make all manner of goods.

Through the winter months I will be running coppicing courses in conjunction with Hoburne Campsite at Bashley in the New Forest. I am often at shows around the New Forest area selling my goods so please telephone me on 023 8087 2679 or use this link to contact me for further details dibby5@tiscali.co.uk on either the goods I make or the coppice courses I will be running.