Why Upland Woodland For many people, the Lake District brings to mind images of stunning views over barren fells and exposed mountain sides. Far from being natural, this is very much a landscape created by human activity as all but the most exposed peaks and screes would have supported woodland or scrub vegetation at one time. The landscape we recognise today was gradually created as vast areas of woodland were cleared to provide more land to graze sheep and for use in industry.
While much of upland Cumbria is recognised as being of national or international importance for wildlife habitats within these areas have been in gradual decline due to overgrazing and increased visitor pressure. Concerns over these declines lead to management plans being prepared for Helvellyn and Skiddaw in the late 1990's. Subsequent changes in sheep numbers and grazing levels have had positive benefits, but little impact on the restoration of native upland woodland and juniper.
Upland oak and ash woodlands are the most commonly found native woodland types in upland Cumbria. Together these woodlands support a diverse range of animals and plants, including a distinctive range of breeding birds, rare and unusual invertebrates and many scarce flowers. However, the restoration of upland woodland is not only good for wildlife but can also help to prevent erosion, stabilise slopes and provide shelter for stock.
