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Draft:Common Wood

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Common Wood

Common Wood is an ancient woodland located in Buckinghamshire, England, covering approximately 400 acres. It is part of Wycombe Heath, situated near the villages of Penn, Tylers Green, and Hazlemere. The wood is recognized for its rich history, diverse ecology, and ongoing conservation efforts.

History

The name Common Wood dates back over a thousand years, referring to the communal use of the land by the inhabitants of the surrounding areas. Historically, the wood was part of Wycombe Heath, which extended across a large portion of what is now modern-day Buckinghamshire. The heathland was traditionally managed by the community, who grazed livestock, harvested wood, and gathered other resources. Over time, much of the heathland was enclosed and converted to farmland or developed, but Common Wood remains a vestige of this historical landscape.

In the late 19th century, the enclosure movement significantly reduced the size of common lands, including Common Wood. Despite these pressures, the wood was preserved and eventually came under the management of the Penn & Tylers Green Residents Society in 2009, with support from various conservation organizations. This initiative aimed to protect the woodland and its biodiversity for future generations.

Ecology

Common Wood is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, characteristic of ancient woodland ecosystems. The wood features a mix of native broadleaf species, including oak, beech, and ash, as well as a variety of ground flora typical of such environments. The management plan for the wood includes efforts to maintain and enhance this biodiversity, with particular attention to protecting the habitat of native species.

Significant ecological features include:

  • Farther Barn Field: A meadow that serves as an important habitat for local wildlife.
  • Gravely Way Plantation: A section of the wood that was formerly a planted woodland, now managed to encourage native species.
  • Elephant Tree: A notable ancient tree with a distinctive shape, contributing to the historical and ecological interest of the area.

The woodland also supports a variety of wildlife, including several species of birds, mammals, and invertebrates, making it a valuable resource for local biodiversity.

Archaeology

The wood contains several archaeological features that reflect its long history of human use. These include:

  • Earthwork Enclosure: A prehistoric earthwork covering about 4 acres, located on a hilltop within the wood.
  • Old Holloways: Ancient sunken lanes that provide evidence of historic travel routes through the area.
  • A Banked Road: A historic trackway that is believed to have been used in the medieval period.
  • Chalk Track: A path that runs through the wood, possibly dating back to the Roman period or earlier.

These features are carefully preserved as part of the wood's management plan, contributing to its historical and educational value.

Conservation and Management

Since 2009, the management of Common Wood has focused on conserving the woodland for future generations. The management strategy includes:

  • Sustainable Woodland Management: Ensuring the wood's health through selective thinning, coppicing, and other traditional forestry practices.
  • Community Involvement: Engaging local residents and volunteers in the maintenance and conservation of the wood.
  • Education and Outreach: Providing opportunities for the public to learn about the wood's history, ecology, and conservation efforts.

The wood is also part of a larger network of protected areas, helping to preserve the region's natural heritage.

Friends of Common Wood

The Friends of Common Wood is a community group dedicated to supporting the ongoing conservation and management of the woodland. The group works closely with the Penn & Tylers Green Residents Society to organize volunteer activities, fundraise for conservation projects, and promote awareness of the wood's importance.

Membership in the Friends of Common Wood is open to anyone with an interest in preserving this unique natural resource. The group plays a vital role in ensuring that Common Wood remains a thriving habitat for wildlife and a treasured space for the local community.

Access and Recreation

Common Wood is accessible to the public, with several footpaths and bridleways running through the area. These paths provide opportunities for walking, cycling, and horseback riding, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the woodland.

The wood is well-served by local roads, with parking available at several entrances. Maps and information boards are provided to help visitors navigate the area and learn about its history and ecology.

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