Sadly, one of the Ash trees at Beesmoor Road Playing Field recently needed to be cut back due to Ash Dieback.
Ash Dieback – scientific name Hymenoscyphus fraxineus – is a type of tree fungus first reported in the UK back in 2012. Originally from the Asian continent, this fungus has caused catastrophic damage to ash trees across Europe and the UK. Expert projections estimate that the UK is likely to lose at least 75% of our c.80 million Ash trees to dieback over the next 30 years.
One small bit of hope is that this will create a lot of dead wood, which is a really important wildlife habitat!
Recently, our new Community Nature Officer, David, and Phil from Beesmoor Road Playing Field, have been able to use the cut-back wood to create two log piles in gaps in the hedgerow. As the wood decays, it will support a wide range of species including fungi, invertebrates, birds, hedgehogs and amphibians.
Log piles are an easy way to create habit spots for local wildlife – perfect to build in a shady spot in your own garden!
Have you built a log pile or done anything else to support local nature in your garden? If yes, please sign up to our Community Nature Reserve project!
Signing up to this project will give you access to free seeds, plants and trees, as well as advice and guidance about gardening for wildlife.
If you have any questions about the Community Nature Reserve, ash dieback, or on any other local nature topics, email our Community Nature Officer David on wildlife@framptoncotterell-pc.gov.uk
