PRESS RELEASE

01.02.11

‘Quick fix’ forest sale must not threaten region’s wildlife

The Cheshire Wildlife Trust is warning that allowing publically-owned land to be sold-off may bring into question the future for some of the region’s most threatened wildlife habitats.

The conservation charity - which has been managing nature reserves across the region for almost 50 years, currently looks after a number of sites within the publically-owned estate, including nature reserves within some of the region’s Forestry Commission woodlands.

The comments come following the news that the Government is beginning a consultation on selling off parts of the public forestry estate.

The Trust is urging the Government to recognise the practicalities and realities of securing the long-term protection of England’s forests for the future.

Charlotte Harris, Cheshire Wildlife Trust’s director of conservation said: “The history of our publically-owned forests has been a chequered one, however there is no doubt that these often significant areas of woodland have a tremendous value for wildlife as well as people. Of crucial importance to us at the Wildlife Trusts is that the small and often fragile habitats that exist within the heart of the publically-owned estate - such as peat bogs, are also recognised. The current public ownership allows for a secure future for these easily damaged and often unique places for wildlife.

“It is also vital to consider that the forestry estate can include habitats people may not expect such as lowland grazing meadows, grasslands and ponds. In the continuing debate about our high profile woodlands these equally important wildlife habitats should not be overlooked.”

The Cheshire Wildlife Trust manages Black Lake and Abbotts Moss nature reserves within the Delamere Forest, with the latter home to the rarely found ‘Schwingmoor’ bog habitat creating a floating bed of mosses and pools, providing a refuge for several species of dragonflies.

At Upper Moss Side Farm on the Mersey, a less familiar Forestry Commission site forms part of the Trust’s ambitious Living Landscape plans, including using native-breed cattle to create grazing meadows for wading birds.

Ms Harris added: “Whatever the outcome of the consultation, we will seek to continue our partnership with the relevant landowners on these sites to safeguard their future. Despite the Government’s assurances however, they must understand the extreme challenge to voluntary and community bodies as they seek to raise funds to take on such sites if ownership becomes necessary.”

-ENDS-

NOTES TO EDITORS
1. For more information please contact CWT Communications Officer, Tom Marshall on 01948 820728 or 07734538471