This case study focuses around an area
of the River Liza between Gillerthwaite and the
middle Concrete Bridge. It shows how the area has been
transformed over 20 years from dense conifer plantation (1985) to mixed
species predominantly native broadleaf woodland with greater age
class and structural diversity (2004). Apart from the felling of the conifer,
some mostly failed restocking of broadleaves and removal of spruce
regeneration the evidence suggests that
this transformation has been achieved principally by standing
back and giving natural processes freedom to develop.
In addition the presentation reveals how the dynamic Liza has changed
during the same period.
This case study illustrates that how over time areas of the valley
can be allowed to develop through natural processes and
that these processes do produce valuable habitats which
are attractive and add to the sense of wildness in the valley.
Gilflinter Case study - Introduction