Coppicing Courses
The Network ran a series of subsidised training courses in January to March 2007. These were designed to raise the skill and knowledge levels in woodland coppice management, hedgelaying and coppice crafts. There were three coppice craft and woodland management courses and one dedicated to hedgerow restoration. These courses were 5 days long and due to a grant from the Malvern Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Sustainable Development Fund, only cost £40 per person. The 3 coppicing courses covered the following subjects:
- coppicing, coppice restoration and woodland management
- selection and sorting of coppice materials for specified purposes
- hedgelaying
- tree felling demonstration
- hurdle making
- charcoal burning
- other greenwood and coppice crafts such as pole lathe turning, besom brooms, stick whistles, spoon carving and spar (thatching materials) making
- firewood processing - manual and mechanical
- a talk from the Forestry Commission Local Woodland Officer with regard to coppicing issues
The hedgerow restoration course covered:
- hedgelaying on 3 diverse hedges
- identifying appropriate management technique - namely laying or coppicing and gapping up with planting
- planting up gaps
- sourcing of materials - stakes and binders
Guided walks, talks and craft demonstrations can also be arranged with individual members.