Efforts begin to restore temperate rainforest on Lake District fell

Efforts have commenced to re-establish a vanished temperate rainforest on a fell within the Lake District. The Cumbria Wildlife Trust formally acquired over 3,000 acres of Skiddaw Forest, situated close to Keswick, encompassing its 931m (3,054ft) peak, following a successful fundraising initiative. Scientists from Cambridge University have already conducted peat surveys to ascertain the historical flora, specifically the types of plants and trees that previously thrived on this prominent English mountain. Stephen Trotter, the trust’s CEO, stated that these efforts constitute a long-term undertaking projected to “come to maturity well into the next century”. Mr. Trotter also mentioned that comprehensive surveys would encompass assessments of water quality and flow rates to determine the degree of peatland degradation. Seed collection by volunteers commenced in the autumn, with additional chances for community participation anticipated in the new year. According to the trust, indigenous seeds will be transported to newly established tree-growing centers located in Plumgarths near Kendal, the Cold Springs Community Nature Reserve in Penrith, and another location close to Keswick. Upon maturation, these will contribute to the formation of the new temperate rainforest at Skiddaw. Mr. Trotter commented: “We’re starting by carrying out in-depth, baseline surveys across the site, from small mammals such as otters, weasels and stoats, to the so-called lower plants such as bryophytes, lichens and liverworts which play a vital role in the ecosystem.” The restoration initiatives encompass the reintroduction of 620 acres of vanished Atlantic Rainforest to the lower elevations of Skiddaw Forest. Additionally, 2,200 acres of diverse habitats will undergo restoration, comprising montane scrub, wildflower grassland, heather moorland, and nearly 1,000 acres of peatbogs. This acquisition, for which the charity garnered £1.25m in only six weeks in addition to £5m previously obtained, established Skiddaw as England’s highest nature reserve.