Shropshire Star

Shropshire scheme launched to protect dormice

A scheme to protect the decline of dormice has been launched by a group of volunteers on the Wenlock Edge.

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The Small Woods Association is also looking for volunteers to help restore Shropshire's ancient woodlands after receiving a £2,700 grant from the Sita Trust.

Volunteers will learn woodland management skills including coppicing, tree felling, deer fencing, charcoal making and help to install dormouse boxes.

Richard Thomason, the project manager working for the association, said: "We are delighted we can undertake this work which will benefit the fragile population of dormice living in the coppice woodlands.

"The ancient semi-natural woodlands along Wenlock Edge are in two main areas, at Craven Arms and Much Wenlock.

"The project will run until July with volunteers working most Fridays and some Saturdays and Sundays

"The project aims to restore hazel coppice woodlands to support the dormouse population by improving the woodland habitat.

"We also hope to monitor the dormouse population, protect the habitat from deer damage, encourage new volunteers to enjoy working in woodlands and teach traditional skills."

Coppicing is a traditional form of woodland management that has been used in the UK for more than 5,000 years.

The practice includes cutting trees to ground level and managing the multiple stems that then re-grow.

"There is a long history of coppice management on Wenlock Edge, which was needed to grow wood to produce charcoal originally used to smelt iron before the use of coke," said Mr Thomason.

"Hazel coppice is also used for traditional green wood crafts such as hurdle making."

The hazel coppice used during the project will be cut for beanpoles and pea sticks.

Mr Thomason said: "The dormice population has been in serious decline. The population in Shropshire is on the northern edge of the European range of Wenlock Edge and they are a protected species. "

For information about volunteering contact Mr Thomason on 07964 934556.

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