The follow-up report for the ‘Wild Graythwaite’ watershed restoration project at Great Ore Gate highlights positive progress in the reforestation efforts. Located near Hawkshead in Cumbria, the project, initiated in January 2024 as part of the Graythwaite Forest Management Plan, aims to restore a forest and wetland area with a diverse mix of native broadleaved trees and shrubs. A total of 3,320 trees were planted, including sessile oak, wild cherry, hazel, beech, hornbeam, guelder rose, and wild service, using cell-grown stock with browsing protection (TRICO).
The plantation is showing strong vitality, with a 90% recovery rate. Minor browsing damage by red and roe deer has been observed on about 10% of the trees; overall, the plot remains in good health. Climatic factors have not caused any significant damage. An additional 80 sessile oaks were planted in autumn 2024 to replace losses, and no further replanting is anticipated.
Silvicultural work over the past year has focused on manual clearance, particularly for bracken and invasive grasses, as well as ongoing game protection measures. These efforts will continue in the coming months, ensuring the plantation’s resilience and successful establishment. Biodiversity indicators are promising, with standing deadwood, fallen logs, and wetland features creating a rich habitat for wildlife. Notably, natural regeneration is occurring, with hazel, holly, birch, Douglas fir, and honeysuckle emerging on-site, contributing to ecological diversity.
The large presence of honeysuckle (Lonicera peryclinum) makes the foresters think that it might favor a particular small mammal: the hazel dormouse. Although there are no reports of native hazel dormice in the estate's woodlands, honeysuckle is very common in Great Ore Gate and is one of their favorite foods. Their leaves are used to create the nest. This potential biodiversity benefit will be taken into consideration by the foresters, making them try to avoid the removal of this plant.
The presence of a pair of soaring buzzards highlights the plantation’s potential as a thriving habitat. Continued monitoring and sustained deer management will be essential to maintaining the site’s positive trajectory. Overall, the project is progressing well, with encouraging signs of forest regeneration and biodiversity enhancement. The plot remains accessible via a public bridleway, facilitating ongoing observation and maintenance.