£11,414 awarded in March 2024
TOE was delighted to receive a grant application from the Earth Trust for an inspiring project to restore a neglected coppice coupe at Little Wittenham Wood, transforming it into a thriving, species-rich habitat.
With a grant from South Oxfordshire District Council’s Community Infrastructure Levy Fund, this project aims to enhance biodiversity while connecting people with the power of sustainable woodland management and traditional crafts. This is the perfect combination of goals for any project applying to TOE’s Local Environment Fund.
The 1.76-hectare coppice, once a source of materials for hedgelaying, has been left to nature’s own devices for some time. Earth Trust recognises the importance of balancing natural processes with careful management to maximise biodiversity and community engagement. The project will involve planting hazel and sweet chestnut trees, installing a protective deer fence, and training volunteers in coppicing skills.’ Read more at Coppice restoration, boosting biodiversity and engaging communities - Earth Trust.
We look forward to seeing the boost to woodland biodiversity in the coming years .