The living classroom is situated at Hillcombe Coppice in Bonsley Wood, which is situated off the A357 in Durweston. 

This area of woodland is managed by the members of the Dorse Coppice Group. 

What is Coppicing? 

Coppicing is an efficient, reliable method of harvesting wood. some trees such as pines die when cut down, but ash, elder, oak, hazel, lime and many other species "coppice", the stump sends up shoots and becomes a stool from which successive crops of poles can be cut. Aspen, cherry and most elms sucker; the stump dies but the root system remains alive and sends up successive crops of poles. forming a patch of identical trees called a clone.

The effect on the habitat: 

Wild plants on the whole, do not thrive in continuous shade. Primroses and other spring flowers flourish in the years of light; they also require years of shade to suppress the tall grasses and other non-woodland plants, which would overwhelm them outside the woods.

For more information on our Training Courses, Open Days and Events Programme contact:-
www.dorsetcoppicegroup.org.uk
info@dorsetcoppicegroup.co.uk
Tel: 01259 482200