Introduction to Coppice Management
9.30am-4pm
THE COURSE
A day combining discussions, presentations and practical experience. We will cover the historical background of coppice management, good practice in coppicing and showing the benefits to wildlife in well coppiced areas. Students will be shown how best use can be made of coppice materials with safe and effective use of the traditional tools involved. A tour of a coppice will demonstrate different stages of coppice work and how areas can be brought back from neglect with good practice.
An outline timetable for the day:
9.30am-11am Historical background talk on coppice management with Jon Roberts
11am Coffee break
11.30am-12.30pm Tour of the coppiced areas of the Museum.
12.30pm-1.30pm Lunch break
13.30pm-14.30pm Modern coppice management background and safety briefing with Vic Smith. Presentation on how why and how to coppice, species, tools etc.
14.30pm-15.30pm Hands-on practical coppicing in the woods.
15.30pm Coffee break and final question and answer session.
With its wide range of historical agricultural buildings the Museum brings together on one site many of the ecological, historical and social elements associated with coppicing.
THE TUTOR
Vic Smith is an experienced hedgelayer and coppice worker. He has run courses across Hampshire and Sussex in both hedgelaying and chainsaw forestry.
Jonathan Roberts has worked for the Museum for many years and has particular expertise in social history and the artefacts which supported historic life. In his current role he is responsible for the Museum's woodland.
PARTICIPANT INFORMATION
This course will be limited to 8 participants.
Please wear sensible, warm, waterproof clothing and shoes and bring robust gloves.
Please bring the following tools if possible: billhook, bow saw and pruning saw.
FEE
£50 per person, to include tuition, teas and coffees. The Museum café will be open or you can bring a packed lunch.