Forestry Commission

government

Last mentioned: Mar 9, 2026

Timeline

  1. Critical Warning

    Charities warn that the 'biological legacy' in PAWS soils is nearing a point of no return.

  2. Ecological Recognition

    First major surveys identify the unique value of PAWS and the threat of conifer shading.

  3. Mass Conversion

    Widespread felling of ancient broadleaf woods for conifer plantations to build timber reserves.

Stories mentioning Forestry Commission 1

sustainability Neutral

Urgent Restoration Needed for UK's 'Forgotten' Ancient Woodlands

Conservation charities are sounding the alarm over the rapid disappearance of ancient woodland remnants currently buried beneath commercial conifer plantations. Experts warn that the biological legacy of these 'forgotten forests' will be permanently lost without immediate intervention to thin non-native timber crops.

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