Sunday 5 May 2013: Woodland survey – an introduction

Steve Joul’s introduction to the woodland survey.

“I am aiming to collect ecological

information on a regular basis which can be used to accurately describe the habitats and wildlife of Adel Woods and the wider Leeds area. This is to determine exactly what habitats we have, to assess the ecological condition of those habitats, to assess the populations of important species, to monitor changes over time and to identify what important management we need to achieve to secure their future. I also think it is important that this information is put in an interesting form that people can understand and enjoy, with pictures to inform and interest people and to promote Adel Woods and the community action undertaken by the Friends of Adel Woods. For example, the top ten plants that characterise the whole area or perhaps each distinct habitat could be illustrated.

“I am currently collecting quadrat data which shows the percentage cover of the various species in randomly sampled plots. I also record all the species I see present in the habitat, particularly the plants but also anything else I can identify (which is a lot). I also collect indicators of the health of the habitat for example the presence of various age classes in woodland i.e. seedlings, saplings, mature trees and standing dying or dead wood and collect photographs and grid references etc.

“For the area that Friends of Adel Woods care for I have collected the following quadrat data so far. Most of this data has a condition assessment and species list attached:

Buckstone Fields, Copper’s Field: 5 Quadrats

Buckstone Fields, David’s Field: 8 Quadrats

Adel Woods: 4 Quadrats

Alder Woodland bordering Adel Beck: 2 Quadrats

Adel Moor: 10 Quadrats

Adel Bog: 10 Quadrats

“I have also collected the following information in the valley which could be utilised by comparing it with our own area

Scotland Wood: 12 Quadrats

Meanwood Wood: 12 Quadrats

Breary Marsh: 20 Quadrats

“I did much (but not all) of this data collection in work time but new priorities have moved me away from this work to work with volunteers in our parks rather than working on my own. However, as all volunteer work is encouraged I hope to collect more data by running training courses and volunteer activities such as those I run with Friends of Adel Woods. So, I can do it as long as I do it with you!

“I therefore propose this year to complete my survey of the woodland in the area and to survey the changes on Adel Bog since the recent management was carried out.

“I would value collaboration from anyone who is able to help me advance this project and help turn it into something interesting and meaningful for everyone.”