SOUTHWOOD is on a steep hill on the sides of the Taw valley. South-facing with quite heavy, clay soil it is

predominantly oak that appears to have colonised a previously cleared stretch of woodland about 60 years ago. The trees are densely packed, which means that there is little lateral growth and a high canopy that excludes a lot of light from reaching the woodland floor. Along with the oak there is occasional ash, beech, hazel and birch but they are generally struggling to compete.

 

Rhododendron had invaded more than 50% of the wood, but has now largely been eliminated with the help of a grant from Countryside Stewardship. Holly has also invaded and there is still virtually no under-storey due to the lack of light and to vigorous competition from the invasive species. The central part of the wood was 30% thinned in 2018 and we are just beginning to see what a difference this can make. The wood has a Spring that supplies water to the local hamlet of Kingford and its overflow feeds a new, small pond. There is a track through the wood that is adequate for 4x4 and a network of paths is being developed. A new track that can provide access for a compact tractor is planned in the East side of the wood.

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