Old Howe

New woodland created in the Hull Valley

An exciting new woodland has been created at North Frodingham, East Yorkshire.

The landowner has been working with Jon Traill from Yorkshire Wildlife Trust to improve the headwaters of the River Hull. They know the importance of using trees as a means of improving the flood resilience, water quality and connectivity of the local river valley landscape.

The new woodland was planted by volunteers using re-used tree guards to reduce the carbon footprint. By introducing a variety of species suited to the location, it will join up the area with woodland close-by.

Jon explained: ‘By working closely with the landowner we have put in place a lovely addition to the farm and a future habitat for wildlife. The shape and edge effect will enhance the site and slow down any run-off from the fields above.’

Summary of the project

Jon approached Humber Forest in summer 2023 and asked about how we could help create a new woodland to help nature recovery, protect the sensitive River Hull headwaters and encourage other landowners to become involved. We arranged a site visit and looked at how this could be made a reality.

Between Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, the landowner and Humber Forest we developed a plan. All were happy with this, and we sent it for checks. The only issues were related to the ecological fit with functionally linked open grassland and potential presence of peat (A valuable carbon sink). After a peat survey proved no peat present, and with a few modifications to the design, we were able to accommodate the grassland/marsh areas and have the final project plan approved.

The landowner is very pleased with the final planting and explained that it was her wish to create a legacy for future generations.

The site covers a total gross area of 0.69 hectares with 0.45 hectares of woodland. Open ground and shaped edges being included in the design. A total of 810 native trees and shrubs were planted over a two-week period. Yorkshire Wildlife Trust staff and volunteers will carry out maintenance work on the site.

Project impact

Natural flood management and water quality: The site is on a slope adjacent to a cultivated field so the planting should help with mitigating flood risk and reduce run-off from the surrounding arable fields.

Enhancing wildlife: The site features a new diverse woodland connecting with existing habitats to create an improved wildlife haven. The open areas and edge effect will further enhance the wildlife value of the planting. Micro-climates will greatly help invertebrates thrive.

Contribution to Net Zero: The project is expected to capture approximately 200 tonnes of carbon.

Engagement, health and wellbeing: As Yorkshire Wildlife Trust volunteers were involved in the planting and maintenance of the woodland, they will gain a health and wellbeing benefit from the experience. It will add to the feeling of community amongst the group.

Employment and skills: Yorkshire Wildlife Trust staff have been involved with the planning and management of this project throughout. It has improved their woodland creation skills and allowed them to look at future working with Humber Forest and woodland creation in general.

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Landowner ›

If you would like more information or to talk through your project ideas, please fill out the form below:

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