Friends of Buntings Wood
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Friends of Buntings Wood |
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An estimated 90,000 trees have been planted over the site which covers more than 30 hectares. Buntings wood stretches from Thorne lock to beyond the M18 motorway and is bounded on one side by the Stainforth - Keadby canal and on the other by the Ashfield Bank; part of the original flood defences for Thorne constructed in the 17th Century. Buntings Wood is a community resource and is not just about trees. There are ponds, some which are in the process of being restored, short grassland and adjoining farmland and, in the next few years, an area of wildflower meadow to see. These offer varied habitats and encourage a diverse range of flora and fauna. Away from the woodland complex, and across the canal, there is an area of land which hopefully, in the future, will be developed as a water meadow. Beyond the railway underpass are the three planted areas which are longest established. There are tens of thousands of tree in this area which extends beyond the motorway canal bridge. This part of the wood is crisscrossed with a number of rides and footpaths so there is no need to stick to the service tracks, and walking these smaller paths can offer a better view of the developing woodland. Just inside the entrance to the wood is the latest planting. This area, planted in the winter of 2001, is now becoming established and growing well. Alongside the straight rows of the main planting, next to the hedge along the access track, is Adopt an Area. Adopt an Area is used to plant the trees and flowers donated by the people of Thorne and Moorends and surrounding districts. At the end of Adopt an Area is the plot we call Adopt a Tree. This is a small area set aside for people to sponsor trees and is becoming popular as a place to plant trees in memorial or celebration. There are plans for a decorative arch and a memorial bench so that visitors to the wood can sit and rest in this well tended area near the adopted trees. The main planting includes native trees such as Oak, Ash Alder, Hazel and Willow. The trees most prolific (Alder and Poplar) are those that have been planted in the former river bed of the Old River Don, which is lower than the rest of the site and therefore retains more moisture.
Already, in the wood's short history, top predators of the food chain have been observed, and with the cessation of agricultural practices wild flowers are starting to re-appear and colonise. Already seen on site are some of Britain's scarce and threatened species, some of which are protected under law. FOBWO is hoping, through active management, to provide habitats for these species which were once familiar in the area. If you see anything interesting while you are visiting Bunting's Wood contact us and let us know, we are always grateful for any information and observations that the users of Bunting's Wood can give. You never know you may see something rare! The ponds on site are some of the most attractive spots and those that are easily accessible have pathways all of the way around them with benches nearby to rest on or sit and observe from. Bunting's Wood is an open access site and is free to all. There are normally no restrictions as to where you may walk unless work is being carried out when certain paths may be closed for safety reasons. When you visit Bunting's Wood bear in mind that you should wear suitable sturdy footwear and take appropriate precautions against weather. Some of the paths can become muddy and slippery after wet weather and in places the ground is uneven. When you visit Bunting's Wood why not make a day visit to Thorne and undertake the 12 mile 'Round Thorne Walk'. Link to Thorne-Moorends Town Council. You could also visit Thorne Moors, the largest lowland peat bog in England. Link to English Nature |
Contact: postmaster(at) buntings-wood.org.uk. Copyright © 008
Friends of Buntings Wood
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The tree planting
scheme has used species which can survive and flourish in the
prevailing conditions. Species have also been chosen which will aid wildlife,
provide colour to the site. In the future the timber can be utilised for a
variety of woodland crafts such as charcoaling, turning, building fence hurdles
and other traditional skills.