AN AUDIT OF WOODLAND PERFORMANCE ON RECLAIMED LAND IN ENGLAND

Summary A survey of woodlands on 27 sites reclaimed after mineral working or landfilling in England was carried out to assess performance in relation to published reclamation and aftercare guidance. There appeared piecemeal uptake of the guidance at many of the sites, with consequent negative effects on tree survival, growth and health. Many of the problems identified were considered to be preventable, and suggest a level of ignorance or disinterest by the managers of the land on which woodland is established. Recommendations for improvement in restoration and aftercare practices are presented.