Environment and Conservation at Linacre Reservoir

Linacre Reservoirs and the surrounding woodland are a very important feature in the local landscape.  Coniferous trees provide good winter cover for birds and other animals.  Brashings (small branches) are left on the ground after the trees are felled and this deadwood is good for both fungus and insects. 

Both above and below the surface water of the reservoirs are important refuges for many plants, birds, fish and invertebrates. 

Coppicing has been carried out at Linacre since the sixteenth century.  It is the process of felling a tree which allows several stems to grow from the old stump.  This timber can then be harvested and the stumps allowed to grow again.  This process also increases the amount of natural light that reaches the woodland floor and enables ancient woodland plants to grow, e.g. bluebells.