As we have reported in previous BET Bulletins and project updates, the majority of the ash trees on BET’s reserves are showing severe signs of ash dieback disease. There is no treatment for the disease and in the coming years these trees will, almost certainly, die and collapse.
Last winter, contractors felled diseased ash trees along Cheston Combe which presented the highest risk to traffic and houses. This winter we have started to remove diseased trees which are within striking distance of the public footpaths and bridleway running the length of our two reserves. Over the past two months our volunteers have been felling smaller ash trees close to the paths. Starting on 14th February our contractor will be felling the larger diseased trees which could fall on the paths. This will mean that stretches of paths will be closed during the work, for which we apologise.
Timber from the felling will be stacked and shortly afterwards will be collected and paid for by our local partners, Backwell Logs. The steep terrain makes timber extraction challenging but we are planning to use draft horses, which will be very exciting and eco-friendly!! Four heavy horses should be coming from Oakfield Farm, near Rangeworthy, during March. We hope to arrange a date and time after their working day for people to meet the horses. Details to follow.
Note that the affected trees have been marked with various coloured paint spots according to the degree of decline and who will do the felling. The trees were checked during the summer, when in leaf, to identify those whose crown had declined by more than 50% and would not recover. The remaining trees will be assessed each year to determine those which will need to be taken down in future winters. Natural regeneration has started in the felled areas and we have also planted nearly 300 tree saplings so far.
There are a number of ash trees on the road side of BET's boundary which are the responsibility of North Somerset Council. However, as you will be aware, NSC have had higher priority roads to keep safe, including the A370.
BET Trustees