Oxfordshire Woodland Group

When Oxfordshire County Council served a 28 notice on a woodland owner to fell a multi stem mega ash tree growing in proximity to a South Oxfordshire "Quiet Lane". The challenge to comply with same was very significant. This mega ash overtopped and surrounded a much older yew tree of significant interest and importance in the landscape. The decision was made to dismantle this tree rather than try a fell it in "one fell swoop".

The owner turned to Nick Keighley of Face North Forestry (Dorchester-on-Thames) to undertake this work. Nick is an arboriculturalist and has a Masters in Forestry from Bangor University.

Crown reduction work on this 110 year old, 80 foot high, monster tree started at daylight and prceeded apace until light was fading by which time the wind sail area and height of the tree was brought down to a level that even if the main stems failed would no longer pose a threat to passers bye.

Climbing trees and felling large branches which are of tree like proportions is no mean task with physical fitness, nerves of steel, competence and the support of a good ground crew required to ensure the safety of both the public and arboricultural team alike.

The following day the sun came out and the severity of the crown reduction became much more obvious.

Ken Hume
Executive Trustee - Oxfordshire Woodland Group

By summer 2013 we noted that the small elm tree stumps have started to sprout in coppice fashion beside the large ash tree that was felled. These were nibbled by deer and so were protected by laying on branches and twigs to protect growing tips.

By spring 2015 the elm stems are now 6 ft+ high, i.e. above deer browse level, and so the laid on branches and twigs are no longer needed but have been left in place to gradually rot away.

Ken Hume