Woodland Trust Launches £3 Million Appeal to Acquire Ancient Lincolnshire Forest

A charity, the Woodland Trust, is endeavoring to secure more than £3 million to purchase an ancient woodland in Lincolnshire. The trust has indicated that it has until December to finalize the acquisition of Harrison Woodlands, located near Louth. The organization stated that the 483-acre (195-hectare) forest was recorded in the Domesday Book and serves as a habitat for various wildlife, including goshawks and the uncommon white admiral butterfly. The site also encompasses two Neolithic burial mounds, which hold the designation of scheduled ancient monuments. Upon initiating the fundraising drive, Darren Moorcroft, the charity’s chief executive, commented: “If ever there was a site which encompasses our conservation principles, it’s this one. Being able to bring this wonderful wood into our care would see a valuable and irreplaceable ancient woodland, and its wildlife, given a vibrant and healthy future.” If the land is successfully purchased, the trust plans to undertake restoration efforts by removing invasive species and thinning out conifers, thereby allowing native trees and plants to “reclaim the wood.” Additionally, there are intentions to make the area accessible to the public.