Ramorum disease of larch trees has been found in Cumbria for the first time. The disease, which kills larch trees very quickly and is a recent arrival in Britain, has been confirmed in two private woods in the Eskdale Valley in western Cumbria. Larch trees produce large quantities of the spores that spread the disease, which can infect many species of trees and … [Read more...] about Larch tree disease found in Cumbria
forestry commission
Bramble crop concerns scientists
Known by some as the bramble and to others as the blackberry, the small dark fruit found in hedgerows is becoming an essential tool in the recording of changes in our climate. The Woodland Trust has predicted that, although blackberries could ripen early due to the unseasonably warm weather, the crop could suffer this year due to the driest spring across many counties in … [Read more...] about Bramble crop concerns scientists
ForestXplorer iPhone app helps in the forest
The Forestry Commission in England has launched a new iphone app to help visitors identify and learn about trees found in local woodlands. Already an award winning bit of software it also allows users to download handy trail maps learn about trees with an easy to use tree identifier. search for sites by event or activity find basic information such as opening … [Read more...] about ForestXplorer iPhone app helps in the forest
Red Kites doing well in Cumbria
Red kites, reintroduced into the Lake District earlier this year, are doing well according to the Forestry Commission. Reports indicate that they are thriving and are spreading out around Cumbria and further afield. Iain Yoxall, Forestry Commission wildlife ranger at Grizedale Forest who managed the reintroduction, said: “As far as we can tell the birds are doing … [Read more...] about Red Kites doing well in Cumbria
Red squirrel survey
The Forestry Commission has carried out the first ever full survey of the Red Squirrels at reserves in Cumbria. A total of 416 red squirrels were recorded during a 12-week period between May and August 2010, although individual squirrels could have been caught more than once. 75 traps were located within the reserves at Whinlatter Forest, Dodd Wood, Wythop and … [Read more...] about Red squirrel survey