A small group of staff and students from Witherslack Hall School visited Lime Kiln Wood on 28 March 2012 in fine spring weather. They were taken round by the chair of Lime Kiln Wood Trust (Peter Matthiessen), and showed considerable interest in, and knowledge of, woodland ecology and management. We discussed why our various management activities are expected to improve biodiversity in the wood, and also talked about why higher biodiversity is desirable. We ended up doing some practical woodland management which involved removing self-seeded beech saplings that have become too numerous. The undamaged saplings were taken back to Witherslack Hall School for replanting as a hedge.

We have been approached by Upper Allithwaite Parish Council to speak for 15-20 minutes at their Annual Parish Meeting of electors – it seems they think our efforts in LKW justify an airing, and they’d like to hear a bit more. I have said we will do it, but it would be good if any of you were also able to attend the meeting, which is at 19.30 on Wednesday 16 May in Lindale Village Hall.