WINTER work on the Malvern Hills and Commons is now well underway.
Across the landscape, Malvern Hills Trust field staff and contractors are carrying out essential work which includes scrub clearance, tree thinning and tree safety.
All work is described in the land management plan and benefits species, habitats, archaeology, geology and views of the hills.
An example of the work the trust will be carrying out can be currently seen on the slops of End Hill where field staff are felling the young sycamore woodland.
Above the path the trust is also restoring the open character to the benefit of geological exposures, the landscape and wildlife, especially the rare Grayling butterfly which needs open bare rocks to breed.
A huge amount of work has been done to benefit the Grayling in the last two years with help from the Butterfly Conservation and volunteers.
Below the contour path the trust are retaining it as woodland as a habitat and a firebreak adjacent to the houses.
A trust spokesperson said: “The smaller material (brash) which is cut up during the conservation work will be burnt so you may see smoke from small fires on the Hills.
“Larger timber is being removed from the site and will be made available for local people to collect in return for a small donation which goes towards future conservation works.
“If anyone would like some firewood, please telephone 01684 892002 to arrange collection.”
Unfortunately the trust cannot provide detailed information or advanced notice of where field staff and contractors will be working at any time as it is dependent on the weather and ground conditions.
