Tree cover has been
declining fora very long time - ever since Neolithic man began
clearing land for agriculture around 4000 BC. By the Iron Age
(500BC) the original total forest cover had probably been halved
and had been reduced to just 15% by 1086 when the Domesday Book was
produced.
Woodlands have a
long established place in this county's history. They have been the
source of timber to fuel industry, building and overseas
exploration. Woodlands were very important in the local economy and
through coppicing they provided brush, poles and timber for
firewood, fencing and building needs. The current character of our
ancient woodlands is a product of the purposes for which they were
used in the past.
As traditional uses
and markets for wood began to decline so the woodland cover
declined also. Of the remaining ancient woodland a further 45% has
been destroyed since the second world war. This loss was mostly as
a result of the mechanisation and intensification of agriculture
and a national increase in dependence on livestock and animal
products.
