Coppicing
Coppicing is a traditional management technique that dates back as far as history. It involves cutting a parcel of woodland, which is known as a coop, in winter when the trees are dormant. This creates a stool. Come spring the stool will start regenerating and if protected , will grow vibrantly secreting carbon and providing a more diverse woodland, encouraging many different species, some of which are sadly endangered.
If this procedure is managed in correct rotation the forest/woodland will be a constant source of fuel and timber. "Maidens" are left to grow strong and straight much prized for oak timber framing and in time gone by oak ships of the line
Picture of one year of new growth on coppiced stool
In association with Countryside Management Services, Harts Of Oak are purchasing hornbeam and processing into firewood and charcoal. This is an activity that is thriving in Broxbourne woods, transporting into London via the canal system supplying North London, and by a nice twist of fate Harts Of Oak are now supplying marina's and fuel barges on the rivers and canals as well as locally for domestic use.
Picture after 7 years ready to harvest
Picture of Hornbeam harvested from Broxbourne Forest