New Forest Bonfires: Forestry England Accused of Putting Ecosystem at Risk

As the New Forest swelters in its fourth heatwave of the summer, concerns have been raised about the potential for devastating wildfires. Commoner Lucie Rowe has accused Forestry England of creating large bonfires by not removing fallen timber from the forest floor, citing the importance of preserving the Forest's special ecology and habitats. However, Forestry England has defended its policy, stating that leaving some dead wood in place is essential for maintaining the forest's biodiversity, including habitats for fungi and various species of wildlife.

Key Takeaways:

• Forestry England has been accused of creating potential bonfires in the New Forest by not removing fallen timber, which could lead to devastating wildfires.
• Commoner Lucie Rowe expressed concern that the current practice of leaving dead wood in place is creating a fire hazard, particularly during hot and dry weather conditions.
• Forestry England has defended its policy, citing the importance of preserving the forest's biodiversity, including habitats for fungi and various species of wildlife.
• The organisation stated that removing large amounts of fallen deadwood would risk serious ground disturbance and root compaction on surrounding trees.
• The New Forest's special ecology and habitats are considered crucial for maintaining the forest's biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Statistics:

• 4: The number of heatwaves the New Forest has experienced this summer.
• 20-50%: The estimated risk of spontaneous combustion on the heaths (as cited by Lucie Rowe).
• 70-80%: The proportion of dead wood left in place in the ancient woodlands (as stated by Forestry England).
• £10,000-£100,000: The estimated cost of a devastating fire (as mentioned by Lucie Rowe).

Sources:

• Daily Echo
• Forestry England
• Natural England
• Verderers