#ancienttrees

[missedmilemarkers]

[islandnaturals]

Trees help us with activating our ancestral memory. Touch them, talk to them, listen to them and remember. It makes so much sense that the Taino chief Kalaan uses trees to guide ones in mushroom ceremonies hosted by @earthandthefullness btw ✨ In my two experiences with this plant I met with my ancestors. Nature….life is amazing. Watch how mi pose up pan di tree like is a Benz…as I should…She’s majestic! I swear I just saw this same tree in a documentary on west Africa but this pic was taken in 2013 by mystic mountain in Ocho Rios. #trees #bigtrees #ancienttrees #ancientmemories #ancestralmemories #ancestralplane #ancestralconnection #ancestralroots #ancestors #roots #majestictrees #treetrunks (at Jamaica) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cp-jIa8uKyp/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[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

[frnwhcom]

In the quiet churchyard of Fortingall, Perthshire, Scotland, stands a living testament to the passage of time – the Fortingall Yew. Estimated to be between 3,000 to 5,000 years old, this ancient tree is not just a biological wonder but a storied guardian of history, myths, and the evolution of the landscape around…

[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.

[bubblesandstuff]

(via Path to the tree of wisdom illustration Throw Blanket by Remco Kouw)

[mppainterart]

#WatercolorArt

#LandscapePainting

#AncientTree

#NatureArt

#TreePainting

#BotanicalArt

#ArtOfNature

#HandmadeArt

#CalmingArt

#WatercolorLandscape

#ArtLovers

#TreeOfLife

#PeacefulArt

#SereneArt

#WatercolorPainting

#NatureLovers

#ArtCollector

#WallArtDecor

#CreativeProcess

#EtsyArtist

[flowersinurbia]

Ms. Pakanli Kohlaha (Flower of the Magnolia, Choctaw) once again flourishes her shining golden crest, as she and her ancestors have done upon these lands every Ama Ganugogv (Springtime, Cherokee), for 15 thousand years. Shine on, Waabigwani-Giizis (Flower Moon, Ojibwe). ♡♡♡ #magnolia #ancienttrees #indigenous #treeflowers #flowersinurbia #flowers #floral #flora #fleur #nature #fleuriste #fleuris #naturelovers #naturephotography (at Miccosukee Canopy Road Greenway) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cdlt0mDL6Ci/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[nyaam]

#me #treelovers #naturephotography #blackandwhitephotography #ancienttrees #bw #darkphotography #darkwear #darkelf #naturecore #naturelovers https://www.instagram.com/p/CkTMEfmINuN/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[davidwfloydart]

Ancient Bristlecone Pines #amazingnature #naturevibes #bristleconepine #pinetrees #ancientwisdom #ancienttrees (at Catalina Foothills, Arizona) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cd3OJOdLxJXoGNdouUckIhlov-ER2w6SIrwGEQ0/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[missedmilemarkers]

This gnarly tree exudes personality with its sprawling, twisting branches reaching out like a natural sculpture. Its thick, weathered trunk stands as a testament to the passing years, offering shade and mystery in equal measure. Encased in lush greenery, the tree feels like an ancient guardian of the area, welcoming wanderers with its open arms. The soft dirt path weaving around it adds a sense of story, as if many have paused to admire its grandeur or seek refuge under its canopy.

[quintessential-magpie]

🌲✨ Giant redwoods!! ✨🌲

[thisbirdsabsurd]

There are three old sisters that live in my woods. I’d say they’re at least 250 years old. I imagine all the things they’ve seen in all that time; moose and bear, hunters, travelers, explorers. When they were maybe 150 years old their lives were spared when the land was cleared for raising sheep. They were big enough to give shade to the flock and maybe even provided sap to the farmer, that was boiled down to make maple syrup. And now this old lady has come to the end. She has valiantly hung on as her branches fell and her trunk began to crumble. It’s so sad to see her go, but I will continue to visit her and her sisters for as long as they (or I) continue to stand. 🌳❤️ #ancienttrees #mapletree #oldladiesofthewoods #nhwoods https://www.instagram.com/p/CFcPwn1g-06/?igshid=yupw4zk69mbx

[lalunaunita]

We visited our 700 year old neighbor this evening...found a spoon and a lizard living within! Also a few remnants of the modern age on the ground. #oaktree #ancienttrees #texas #centraltexas (at Austin, Texas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CDm_S_3Jty6/?igshid=e060u1lp6990