Restoring Reynolds & Holcot Woods – introducing silvopasture (part 8) In 2023 we began a journey to restore Reynolds and Holcot Woods – woodlands that had been without active management prior to our involvement. Our 10-year management plan aligns with UK Forestry Standards, Natural England’s and the Woodland Trust’s guidelines, and has received approval from the Forestry Commission. Through our efforts, we aim to enhance the resilience of these woodlands against pests, diseases, and climate change while promoting biodiversity. Follow us on this journey… Posted 14th May 2026 Introducing silvopasture Holcot Wood is made up of both ancient and more recently planted woodland, as well as an area of open pasture. We consulted with Natural England and the Forestry Commission to create a design for this pasture area that preserves the existing grassland features whilst incorporating trees. A landscape designer was also engaged to ensure the design maintains and enhances the elevated views, including of the Cardington Hangars and the Greensand Ridge. Including trees into woodland pasture in this way is a type of agroforestry known as silvopasture – the ideal transition from ancient to new woodland. Fencing made with wood from Reynolds & Holcot Forest Officer Gareth at the Silvopasture site Ancient woodlands within Reynolds & Holcot Woods Grazing plans Our aim is to introduce livestock to the pasture, with them grazing between May and September. Initially this is likely to be sheep, but cattle or other livestock may be introduced in the future. Fencing has been erected around the perimeter of the wood pasture. Whilst we generally try to avoid fencing in woodlands, in this case it’s essential to avoid the livestock straying into the rest of the site and damaging the newly restored areas. Made by local coppice worker Olly Moses, the fencing is constructed of sweet chestnut coppice – a durable, long-lasting timber. Species planted The chosen planting mix for this area is hornbeam, wild service tree and scots pine, adding diversity and climate resilience to the tree species already in the wider woodland. Individual trees have been planted as well as groups of 350 within small fenced enclosures – creating a varied structure, providing shade for the livestock and preserving the grassland feature of the area. Hornbeam Wild service tree Scots pine Want to learn more about the restoration of Reynolds and Holcot Woods? Explore the previous blogs in this series to follow the journey so far and discover how these woodlands are being restored for people, nature and the future. News & blogs Manage Cookie Preferences