New wood - coup 2

2001
The periodic placement of yew provides a natural coniferous element to the new wood. Note how tree growth is still limited in this part of the wood. Thin chalky soil is far from a rich growing medium.
   
Digging a small pond to provide a wildlife watering hole in an area that is without natural water. After lining the excavated top soil was returned to the pond. The unused chalk was used for farm tracks nearby.
   
2003
Two years later and the pond is well established with both natural and planted reed growth underway. A small floating island can be seen towards the back of the pond which is close to the boundary of the ancient woodland.
   
Just a few months later and the habitat has matured further. Note how a mown area between the new planting and the pond provides a gradation of habitat.