Swineholes Wood
A foggy day at Swineholes wood near Ipstones in the Staffordshire Moorlands close to the Pennine National park.
Swineholes Wood is 61 acres of heathland and is an area of special scientific interest.
The site is managed by Staffordshire Wildlife Trust who through careful land management is creating a rich diversity of species and habitats.
The broadleaf trees, predominantly oak and rowan, are relatively new additions to the site. As the woodland becomes more established the tree canopy closes in and eventually shades out the heathy ground flora for which the site is so important. Management of the reserve therefore aims to maintain the balance between the open heathland and expanding woodland.
Some areas are kept clear of trees with the intention or retaining open moorland. In other areas the woodland is being thinned to ensure that the heathland shrubs can still survive whilst still retaining some woodland cover.
