#ancientoaks

[thxnews]

National Nature Reserve Expansion Safeguards Trees

A major expansion of the Moccas Park and Gillian’s Wood National Nature Reserve in Herefordshire has been announced by the UK government. This initiative aims to protect ancient oaks and sweet chestnut trees that are hundreds of years old, ensuring their survival for future generations. The reserve's area will increase by 100 hectares, creating a sanctuary for diverse wildlife and preserving historical woodlands.  

Ancient Trees and New Beginnings

Moccas Park, already renowned for its ancient oaks, is now joined by Gillian’s Wood to form an expanded National Nature Reserve. This expansion is not just about enlarging the territory but also about restoring and preserving vital ecosystems. The newly named reserve combines the historic Moccas Park with Woodbury Hill Wood, now managed by the Woodland Trust, thanks to support from a Herefordshire family.  

Old Man of Moccas. Photo by the Ancient Tree Forum. Facebook.   Importance of the Reserve The reserve is home to some of the UK’s oldest trees, including the legendary “Old Man of Moccas,” an oak tree believed to be over 850 years old. These ancient trees are invaluable not only for their historical significance but also for the biodiversity they support. The restoration efforts will benefit various species, including bats, beetles, and dormice, making this reserve a crucial habitat for wildlife.  

Restoration Efforts

Natural England and the Woodland Trust are spearheading the restoration of the woodlands. The expansion includes the transformation of Moccas Hill Wood into wood pasture and the revival of Woodbury Hill Wood as ancient woodland. These efforts involve carefully removing conifer trees planted in the 1950s to give space for native species, thus allowing the ancient trees to thrive.  

Woodland & information board Woodbury Hill. Photo by Colin Park. Geograph.  

Actions and Outcomes

The restoration of these woodlands involves several critical actions aimed at enhancing the health of the ecosystem. These include increasing light to the forest floor, which will help native plants and trees re-establish themselves. Additionally, the removal of non-native conifers will create a more conducive environment for the ancient trees and the species that depend on them. Action Description Outcome Conifer Removal Gradual removal of 1950s conifer trees Space for native species and ancient trees to thrive Light Enhancement Increasing light penetration to the forest floor Growth of native flora Ancient Tree Survey Tagging and initial management of surviving ancient trees Ensured survival and proper care Wildlife Monitoring Continuous monitoring of local wildlife Improved habitat conditions   Quotes from Key Figures Emma Johnson, West Midlands Deputy Director for Natural England, highlighted the historical importance of the trees: “The amazing ancient trees in Moccas Park and Gillian’s Wood date back hundreds of years to medieval times and beyond and provide rich and varied spaces for many species, including the Moccas beetle found at only one other site in the UK.”   Richard Brown, Site Manager of the Woodland Trust, emphasized the significance of the restoration efforts: “Ancient Woods have been around since at least the 1600s and cannot be replaced. Gradually removing the conifer trees will allow light to reach the woodland floor and the plants, trees and associated wildlife found within an ancient woodland will start to establish themselves once more.”  

The Legacy of Gillian Bulmer

Gillian’s Wood is named in memory of Gillian Bulmer, a strong advocate for woodlands and trees. Her brother, John Bulmer, and the trustees of her will supported the Woodland Trust in acquiring and restoring Woodbury Hill Wood. This dedication ensures that her love for nature continues to inspire and protect these ancient landscapes. John Bulmer expressed his sentiments on the dedication: “Being able to support the Woodland Trust to buy and restore this ancient woodland in Gillian’s memory feels very fitting. She was a strong advocate for woods and trees throughout her life and the designation of the National Nature Reserve in the county where she loved feels very poignant.”  

Chicken of the woods. Photo by We Like Sharing. Flickr.   Enhancing Wildlife Habitat The expansion of Moccas Park and Gillian’s Wood National Nature Reserve is not only a victory for historical preservation but also a boon for wildlife. The reserve supports over 1,000 species of fly, 700 species of beetle, and 13 out of the 18 UK bat species. Birds, including all three types of woodpeckers and the nationally significant Pied Flycatchers, find sanctuary here.   Public Access and Engagement The reserve is largely open to the public, offering spectacular views of the Herefordshire landscape. Visitors can explore Gillian’s Wood and Moccas Hill Wood freely, while guided walks and open days at Moccas Park will enhance public engagement and appreciation of these ancient woodlands.  

In Conclusion

The expansion of the Moccas Park and Gillian’s Wood National Nature Reserve marks a significant step in preserving the UK's natural heritage. By safeguarding ancient trees and enhancing wildlife habitats, this initiative ensures that future generations can enjoy and learn from these remarkable landscapes. The combined efforts of Natural England and the Woodland Trust, supported by the local community, underscore the enduring value of conservation and historical preservation. For more information about the Moccas Park and Gillian’s Wood National Nature Reserve and upcoming events, visit the Natural England website or contact the Woodland Trust.   Sources: THX News, Natural England & Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. Read the full article

[thetreehunter]

Filming The King’s Spy Oak for ITV News

What an absolute privilege it was for me to finally ‘meet with’ the 700-year-old King’s Spy Oak at Caversham, Reading, on Wednesday. This irreplaceable, ancient oak is threatened with felling by a ludicrous housing development scheme (Go to Reading Council Planning Portal and enter 221909). 

At the great oak I was met by local campaigner Jennifer Leach, along with ITV Meridian’s presenter Mel Bloor and camerawoman Steph. Both Jennifer and myself were interviewed for the news piece, which will hopefully be aired on ITV Meridan News today (Friday 12th May 2023).  The Woodland Trust’s Jack Taylor gave a Zoom interview for the piece.

ITV Meridian’s presenter Mel Bloor interviews Tree hunter Rob McBride

The King’s Spy Oak

There have been numerous objections to the planned housing development. Sterling work from local campaigners including the READING TREE WARDENS have raised the plight of this internationally significant ancient oak.

ITV Meridian’s presenter Mel Bloor interviews tree campaigner Jennifer Leach

Local reporter James Aldridge also came along to chat with us and has produced a tree-mendous piece, including a much-longer VIDEO REPORT, in the - Click here for report>> READING CHRONICLE.

ITV Meridian’s presenter Mel Bloor filming her news report at the King’s Spy Oak Rob said ‘This tree must be saved. If the proposed felling goes ahead, then we might as well give up!’ 

and continued by saying... ‘There is an urgent need for proper new laws to protect our truly ancient gems like the King’s Spy Oak.’ Please do head along to the Woodland Trust’s site and sign their -  Click here to sign>> -  ‘LIVING LEGENDS’ petition asking for just such a law from all UK governments.

Please feel free to Click here to join the FACEBOOK group >> Save the King’s Spy Oak and help us raise awareness of this incredible ancient oak.

[naturalexplorer]

Demise of the Hogsmill Riverside Oak. I often used to just stand and ponder life by this large oak tree. Or just touch the ancient bark. So it was sad to discover it had finally fallen when I got home from my travels. The tree split and tumbled over in early October and it turned out to be hollow in the middle. It has been estimated to be between 300 and 600 years old. I like to believe it is 600 old. That would have been 1422 and the War of the Roses. And when it was growing, Henry VIII hunted in the area and built Nonsuch Palace not that far away to be 'no such place' and be better than the likes of Hampton Court, Whitehall Palace and Greenwich Palace. If the acorn had come from a parent tree that was also 600 years old, it would have been the 9th century with King Alfred the Great about to come to power. And Ewell is the saxon for well or spring (Hogsmill springs in Ewell). And if the acorn of that tree had come from another tree that was 600 years old, it would have been around 222AD and the height of the Roman empire in Britain. And Stane Street, the Roman road from London to Chichester, first headed the spring of the Hogsmill river nearby. So I could imagine Roman soldiers resting under the shade of oak trees by the stream! #hogsmill #hogsmillriverside #hogsmillopenspace #hogsmillnaturereserve #ewell #oak #oaktree #ancientoak #stanestreet #ewellspring #nonsuchpalace (at Hogsmill Riverside) https://www.instagram.com/p/CnErb53DxVB/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[oneterabyteofkilobyteage]

original url http://www.geocities.com/ancientoak/ last modified 2006-08-25 02:42:27

[themeissenman]

My wife loves to hike. Yesterday decided to join her. While it was great to wear my my Vibram five fingers I did do a few miles barefoot 🦶 The downside was us getting lost even with an ordinance survey map and my knees hurting like hell in the night not used to 25,000 steps. I think I prefer tree 🌳 climbing. Having said that saw some amazing ancient trees on the National Trusts Ashridge Estate including the tallest abd slimmest oak I’m pondering whether I will climb. #walkingbarefoot #fivefingershoes #vibramfivefingers #ashridgeestate #ancientoaks #ancienttrees #ancientbeeches https://www.instagram.com/p/CS_VxMljG4C/?utm_medium=tumblr

[secretpathseditions]

Happy New Year to you and, above all, good health for the coming year. #goodwishes #seasonsgreetings #goodhealth #newyear #allthebest #thecloudcatcher #trees #ancientoak #alanmccluskey #outwalking (at Saint-Blaise, Neuchatel) https://www.instagram.com/p/CJeW-7Ohdj9/?igshid=xouqtrm2u8vq

[globalscoble]

Ancient oak - A surviving part of a 1000 year old ancient oak that was ripped asunder by a dramatic lightening strike in Bushy Park. #inktoberchallenge #inktober2019 #inktober #ancient #ink #drawing #sketch #ancientoak #fragment (at Bushy Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/B39UvGwHS-T/?igshid=mlrmt33pti4m

[rootbeerforever]

#ancientoaks #bandmates #soulmates #originalmusic (at Hookah Turka)

[sleepingcat1]

An old friend standing by lost comrades ravaged by recent storm wars! #sonomavalleyregionalpark #ancientoaks

[thxnews]

UK Rare Fossils Find Sanctuary in New Nature Reserve

In a landmark move for conservation, a picturesque corner of the English countryside abundant with geological treasures and rich biodiversity will soon gain the prestigious status of National Nature Reserve. Bradgate Park and Swithland Wood in Leicestershire are set to become the nation's 220th protected area, permanently shielding a remarkable trove of ancient fossils that offer an unparalleled window into the primordial past of our planet.  

Ediacaran Marvels: A Missing Link Revealed

At the crux of this 439-hectare natural haven lie some of the world's rarest and most revelatory fossils from the enigmatic Precambrian Period – mysterious life forms over half a billion years old that predate the emergence of complex, multi-celled organisms. Indeed, the celebrated Ediacaran biota fossils preserved in Bradgate's ancient rocks proved pivotal in resolving a paradox that had long vexed Charles Darwin himself. "Bradgate Park is the only National Nature Reserve where you can find fossils of this astonishing age," notes Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England's governing body. "These fossils were pivotal in confirming Darwin's theory that the ancient seas hosted life eons before complex organisms appeared, finally providing the 'missing link' he suspected must exist."  

Uncovering a Prehistoric Past

The soon-to-be-declared reserve's profound geological significance stretches far beyond the famed Ediacaran imprints. The land itself is a palaeontological time capsule, with exposed rock faces revealing the sedimentary layers of bygone eras.  Juniper explains, "Bradgate Park's rich geological history makes it internationally important for scientific research and teaching of Precambrian palaeontology. It is a key site in the future plans for a UNESCO Global Geopark in Charnwood Forest."  

A Verdant Tapestry of Life

While its prehistoric wonders understandably grab headlines, the new reserve encompasses a mosaic of diverse habitats teeming with modern-day flora and fauna worthy of equal admiration and protection. From ancient oak woodlands dating back eight centuries to vibrant heathlands and wildflower meadows, the varied landscapes support an array of rare and remarkable species: Majestic oaks over 800 years old, home to deer, endangered spiders like the 'Charnwood spider', and birds like the striking green woodpecker One of the last remaining swaths of Leicestershire's traditional heathland, harboring uncommon flora like the small heath butterfly Medieval deer parks once roamed by herds of fallow deer, now cohabitating with their wild red deer cousins Steeped in layers of natural and human history, the area even holds ties to English royalty – it was the childhood home of the ill-fated Lady Jane Grey and a favored childhood haunt of the world-renowned naturalist Sir David Attenborough. As James Dymond of the Bradgate Park Trust remarks, "For Bradgate to be part of His Majesty The King's series of National Nature Reserves is a real honor."  

Striking a Balance

Preservation Measure Public Benefit Protecting vital habitats and species Popular trails for hikers around Leicester Aiding recovery of rare biodiversity Opportunities for wildlife watching and learning Securing geological research value Connecting urban dwellers with local nature With its new status, a delicate balance must be struck between unfettered conservation efforts and ensuring the public can experience and appreciate the area's splendor. Tony Juniper believes the reserve "presents a reminder of how partnerships can drive nature recovery at scale while making it accessible for everyone to enjoy."  

A Resounding Call for Connection

To commemorate National Nature Reserves Week from May 20-31, over 80 public events will be held across England's protected areas this month – offering the perfect chance for people to immerse themselves in these irreplaceable natural gems. Juniper said, "It's vital that we protect nature sites like this which are accessible to people living in cities. Connecting more people from diverse backgrounds with our most important places for wildlife is key to developing a lasting appreciation for conservation."  

A Lasting Environmental Legacy

Bradgate Park's new designation is part of a broader national initiative by King Charles III to create an enduring "green" legacy. Through the King's Series of National Nature Reserves, five new reserves will be announced annually until 2027 with the goal of leaving "a lasting public legacy for people and nature." This crucial first step toward safeguarding an irreplaceable piece of England's natural heritage is being celebrated as a major win for future generations. "National Reserve status will help protect this site going forward," Dymond affirms. "We hope it raises the profile of our geological history and its importance worldwide." With its gnarled ancient oaks joining a national network of over 109,000 protected hectares, this historical haven will become an enduring bastion for biodiversity – and an endless source of wonder, education, and rejuvenation for all who visit. Stay informed on Bradgate Park's transition to National Nature Reserve status at www.bradgatepark.org.   Sources: THX News, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs & Natural England. Read the full article

[thevikingwoman]

Hey you :) a prompt for you! I was thinking smut (as you saw) and I'm also thinking... in a forest? An old forest? I have vague ideas about light through leaves and the earthy smells of trees and moss and warm sun. If you can work with that?

Thank you so much @cordkitty-ish​. This was a fantastic prompt. It took an unexpected turn, and I hope it works. 

for @dadrunkwriting​

Iwyn Lavellan x Solas | during What Pride Had Wrought | angst, romance

rating: explicit, sex with clothes on, outdoor sex, discussions of family

First We Win

The last light of sun filters through the leaves of the treesabove. Lazy dust motes drifts in the warm breeze, the night chill still faraway. Iwyn’s footsteps are silent, the rustling of the leaves is all him.

“Come walk with me,” shehad asked, and he went willingly.

The whole day they have been battling red templars, sweatand blood and lyrium. Then Iwyn had been pulled into the command tent as soonas the camp was up, cooped up with Cassandra and Cullen, with the KnightCaptain, Celene and Fiona, all of them planning the assault as best they can.

They’d left the busy camp behind, and now they walk hand inhand between the tall trees. The forest is old and quiet, and it’s almost enoughto forget the war. The ground is soft with old leaves, and the air smells richand earthy, the leaves dying and turning to dirt. Things that die. He doesn’tthink of the crumbled Temple that lies ahead, the ruins of what was.

 She pulls him against her at the other side of an ancientoak, its mossy trunk framing her red hair. He kisses her easily, slowly.

“Solas,” she says. “Thank you. This day has been… very long.”

“Vhenan.”

He kisses her again, and this time she grabs the collar ofhis jacket and she doesn’t let go. She kisses with determined desperation, herneed searing him. Tomorrow they may find Corypheus, the Well and their ends, orworse. Right now they are here, alive. He can’t help but press close, to seekfriction against his growing hardness.

He wants to erase the weary day and the uncertain tomorrow,he wants to live in her now, her sighs and moans as his hand find its way underher coat and her shirt to touch her skin, herskin. She kisses his throat, and she bites, a light nip that goes straightto his cock. A loud moan escapes him, and he bucks into her. More, he needsmore.

“Solas,” she says again, and she tears at his laces as he pushesher pants down. His fingers find her hot and slick and he doesn’t want to wait,but her pants are stuck, so he drops to his knees to remove one of her boots. Sheis right in front of him, coarse hair and soft folds and he has to taste her,so he does. She gasps and lifts her free leg around his shoulder, opening up tohim.  He licks and sucks, the pressure inhis cock mounting, and he needs, he needs something, he needs more.

“I need you inside,” she gasps, and yes, that is what he needs.

He stands and lifts her legs a little, bringing them close. Sheis flushed and beautiful. He buries himself within her in one deep stroke. Hefucks her against the tree, slowly at first, but his patience is long gone, andhe fucks her faster and harder, until they both tumble over the edge.

After, they slide down the tree, and they lie panting beneathit. Iwyn pulls on her pants, and her hand reaches his and she squeezes it.

“Ar lath ma, Solas. Thank you. Ineeded that.”

“Ar lath ma, Iwyn.Me too.” He raises himself up on one elbow, and he removes a leaf stuck in herhair. He kisses her softly. He did need that, and the intensity frightens him.

He thinks of the ancient trees and the crumbling temple andthe dead leaves decaying under his hands. He thinks of things he wants andshould not have, of wishes and dreams. Of early ends and too long lives.

“Have you ever wanted children?” Iwyn asks, startling him.

His surprise must show on his face, because she continues.

“I didn’t ask if youwanted kids right now, Solas.  Or my kids.Just in general. We’re in the middle of a war anyway.”

“I… not exactly? It wasn’t… the opportunity never presenteditself.” He wonders, then, of tiny children and whether they would have hereyes or his, if their hair would be bright red or deep auburn, or maybe hismother’s curls. If a girl would look more like her, or perhaps have his sister’snarrower face. He swallows. “Have you?”

“I’ve always known I’dlike kids, but now… I’d have to survive first.”

She is rarely this vulnerable, even with him, and the truthof him burns his tongue.

“I’ll do everything I can to protect you, vhenan,” he says instead. It is still atruth.

“I know, ma lath,”she says. She leans over and kisses him, and she puts her head on his chest, on top of his beating, foolish heart. “And don’t worry about children. I’m sorry – I just… It’snonsense. First we win.”

His arms fold around her, and maybe there is some wayforward, some hope for him and for them. Some way he could tell her everything.Soon.

[hareandfern]

Sterling silver necklace made of 6 000 years old bog oak with Baltic amber. Available in my Etsy shop - link in bio 🌿 . . . #witchesofinstagram #witch #witchcraft #witchy #greenwitch #greenwitchcraft #silversmithing #instasmithy #geometricjewelry #sterlingsilver #silverjewelry #handmadejewelry #woodenjewelry #bogoak #bogwood #pagan #heathen #paganjewelry #bohojewelry #bohostyle #crystaljewelry #crystalhealing #gemstone #gemstones #gemstonejewelry #gemstonependant #amber #balticamber #woodcarving #ancientoak

[furryeaglebarbarian]

Ancientoak mage

[oakstrand]

Are you a real estate sales agent in Ancient Oak, Florida? Join us - You keep 100% commission. Click to find out more! https://oakstrand.com/job/167113/hiring-real-estate-sales-agent-in-ancient-oak-florida?utm_term=Ancient-Oak-Florida #joblisting #hiring #joinourteam #jobopening #AncientOak #realestateagent #florida #oakstrand #bestplacetowork

[thehillcastle]

🌳💚🌳💚🌳💚 #contemplation #drawingdoodle #witchofthewoods #darktrees #forestoracle #treemeditation #oldtree #sessileoak #wisdomoftheforest #mistyforest #darkness #wald #ancientoak #gnarledtree #wisdomoftheforest #witchery #darklandscape #nemophilist #drawacard #darkaesthetic #darksouls #arttherapy #northernforest #nordicforest #darkwoods #oraclecards #witcheswoods #witchessociety — view on Instagram https://ift.tt/307vVU2

[kingsaiyadjinn]

Lol oh sheet thanks for just being you😂👌🏽s/o to @ancientoaks https://www.instagram.com/p/B2aF1FSAw-YrKDntlQKgEedwLr2cRc4fbANWeo0/?igshid=di5aea4ddbkv