On Tuesday 11th March 2025 the Hyndburn’s Woodlands Volunteers were back at Woodnook Vale LNR carrying out some Invasive Non-Native Species management.
This time, it took the form of Small-leaved Cotoneaster removal. The coverage of this shrub was quite extensive as it had been allowed to grow for many a year.
The main issue with this plant is its density and coverage, which tends to prevent any foliage growing underneath it, reducing the overall species diversity and reducing the prevalence of native species. Some bird species also eat the berries, which retain through Winter and so offer an appealing snack, this is turn helps the plant spread far and wide through seed dispersal.
Initially, all of the branches must be cleared away until just a small stump remains, which makes mechanical removal via digging the roots out much easier.
We are happy to say we have cleared two large shrubs, with one more on the radar.
Thank you to our amazing volunteers who help us keep Hyndburn’s Woodlands native
As always, thank you to our funders at Lancashire County Council, Hyndburn Borough Council, and the Windfall fund for making it all possible
