Warmer, wetter winters are forcing closures of woodlands and impacting the wild species that rely on them. 

Visitor numbers to woodland reserves have grown in recent years as people enjoy the spectacle of bluebells, wood anemones, wild garlic, oxlips, and other wildflowers. At the same time the normal cold snap has become much milder. The most recent winter was the wettest and warmest on record leading to flooded, muddy paths and damage to ground flora. Several of our sites including Waresley and Gransden, Gamlingay and Brampton Woods were closed or had restricted access in order to allow them to recover. 

Following a similar project two years ago which worked well we have now started work in Waresley and Gransden Wood to widen rides and reprofile them so they don’t stay waterlogged. The Trust’s Monitoring and Research team has completed a study into the impact of this work done a couple of years ago, which showed the grasses and wildflowers were able to recover in following years. 

Matt Hamilton, Cambridgeshire Reserves Manager, said: “Climate change is having an impact right now and this work is essential to futureproof our woodlands for nature and people. 

“After a very wet winter, the rides never really recovered from the weather conditions. Climate change is leading to less cold periods, a lack of snow and less frozen ground. So, the heavy clay ground sits wet, creates lots of puddles and takes months and months to dry out. This means the ride never really recovers. 

“The ride at Waresley has been made wider than it was before. It will take a couple of years to consolidate and for the wildflowers and grasses to recolonise, but will create a ride that is even better than it was before. It will encourage increased diversity and a more open habitat, like a little glade. A kind of wildflower meadow in the middle of a woodland.” 

The section of re-profiled ride at Waresley will now be closed for two years, but we will aim to keep the rest of the wood open as much as possible. And we will continue to carry other work at woods in the area to ensure they to are protected for the future. The work will be paid for through membership support and fundraising. To support the Trust so it can continue vital work like this visit wildlifebcn.org/join.