coppic

Coppicing is a traditional woodland management technique where trees are repeatedly cut back to near ground level. This encourages the growth of new shoots from the base, known as stools. These shoots are allowed to grow for a period, typically between 5 and 20 years, depending on the species of tree and the desired product. Once the shoots reach a suitable size, they are harvested for various uses. This practice is distinct from pollarding, where trees are cut higher up, above the browsing height of livestock.

The primary benefit of coppicing is that it regenerates the woodland sustainably. The regrowth from the stools is rapid, and the harvesting of poles provides a renewable resource. Historically, coppiced wood was a vital source of fuel, fencing, building materials, and materials for basketry and charcoal production. Different tree species are suited to coppicing, with common examples including hazel, ash, oak, and willow. The management cycle of coppicing creates a mosaic of different aged growth within a woodland, which in turn supports a wide diversity of wildlife. The varied light levels and habitats provided by the different stages of regrowth benefit numerous plant and animal species, including insects, birds, and small mammals. Modern coppicing continues to be practiced for ecological conservation and for the sustainable production of wood products.