Friends of St Leonard’s Forest © 2010  All Rights Reserved

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Why do you do it?
            (any or all of these reasons may apply)

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because we want to be involved in helping to preserve the habitat of so many birds, insects, animals, plants and trees. Heathland is a priority for nature conservation because it is an internationally rare and threatened habitat.
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because we are interested in nature
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because we like being outdoors and taking exercise
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because we like to volunteer
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the alternative, on Sunday mornings, is washing the car

What is ‘brashing’

One dictionary definition is: ‘brash’ (noun) - rubbish

In our case, to ‘brash’ (verb), means to remove the small lower limbs of conifers so as to allow more light and air into the stands of these trees. The cut branches are the brash.

Why is the Rhododendron not wanted in the forest?

Click here to find out what makes it number one on the list of plants that we don’t want to flourish in the forest (though the flowers look pretty).

What does Alder Buckthorn look like?

Small bushy tree, grows to 4 or 5m. It has no thorns. Branches grow at a narrow angle to the main upright shoot. Yellow-green leaves turn bright yellow in the Autumn. Tiny white flowers just 3-4mm appear in clusters at the ends of the branches. Berries ripen from green to cherry-red. Likes damp acid soils. Alder Buckthorn is the food plant of the Brimstone butterfly.

                    We acknowledge with thanks the help of the Offwell Woodland & Wildlife Trust

Who owns the forest?

The Forestry Commission own the Forest and certain areas are managed by West Sussex County Council  
FAQs (frequently asked questions)