Caring for Our Local Woods: Supporting the Bellhurst Nature Conservation Trust

Recently, we visited one of the Trust’s beautiful woodland sites near Bodiam, East Sussex.  Trustee Jason Lavender guided us through the woods, explaining how thoughtful management helps these habitats thrive.

Restoring Native Woodland

One of the Trust’s key goals is to restore native species and re-introducing traditional woodland management. Over time, non-native conifers have replaced traditional broadleaf trees such as oak, hazel, and birch. The Trust is gradually reversing this by replanting native trees, removing conifers and invasive plants (such as rhododendron), and managing deer to protect young saplings and regenerating areas.

Enhancing Habitats for Wildlife

Another vital practice is rotational coppicing — periodically cutting back certain trees to let more sunlight reach the forest floor. This encourages the growth of smaller trees and plants, including hornbeam, and creates perfect nesting and feeding conditions for species such as the Nightingale, which breeds in this undergrowth. These habitats are increasingly rare and are essential for biodiversity, carbon storage, and the character of our countryside.

To keep woodland management sustainable, the Trust works in partnership with a close-knit group of trusted and competent woodland contractors and conservation specialists — ensuring that any timber operations support, rather than harm, the environment.

Caring for Woodland Soil

Jason also highlighted the importance of protecting the woodland’s soil. Allowing natural leaf litter to accumulate helps preserve the soil’s structure and fertility. The Trust avoids using heavy machinery where possible to minimise soil disturbance and maintain the delicate underground networks of fungi and roots that keep the woodland healthy.

Dealing with the Spruce Beetle

The Trust has also faced new challenges. The spruce beetle, accidentally introduced from mainland Europe, has become a serious pest for spruce pine trees across the UK. Following government guidance, the Trust began removing affected spruce trees — a tricky task since they were scattered throughout the woodland. To prevent damage from heavy vehicles, they used a specialist technique called skylining, where the felled spruce trees are lifted out using an overhead cable system. It’s a complex and costly process, but one that protects the woodland floor and surrounding habitats.

Sharing Knowledge and Skills

Education and community benefit are central to the Trust’s mission. They provide guided walks, training sessions, and chainsaw safety courses, helping more people understand woodland ecology and sustainable management.

The work of the Bellhurst Nature Conservation Trust is a perfect example of how small-scale, local conservation can make a lasting impact. By combining traditional techniques, modern science, and community involvement, the Trust ensures that these ancient woods will continue to flourish for generations to come.