Woodland forms an integral part of the Raby Estate, with broadleaf and coniferous plantations occupying land from the high ground of the Wrekin and north Pennine moorland edges, to the lowland margins of the River Tees and the Severn.
Our Woodlands
Forest Management
Generations of continuous forest management have shaped the woodland landscape and developed a rich diversity of habitat and natural timber resource that is enjoyed today. The woodlands are sustainably managed under long term forest plans which are independently certified under the UK Woodland Assurance Standard. The primary objective of the plans is to produce high quality timber in a responsible manner that safeguards the biodiversity of the woodlands and the landscape in which they are situated.
Supplying the community
Forest operations are responsibly managed by a dedicated Estate Team, supported by local contractors. Through a sustainable harvesting programme, the Estate produces a range of hardwood and softwood milling timber, cut to customers’ specifications, along with roundwood for supply to local firewood and biomass processors.
Regeneration
Following timber harvesting, the regeneration of robust, diverse woodland is a priority and an extensive planting programme ensures that clear-felled areas are suitably re-stocked. The careful selection of productive conifers and native broadleaf trees that are suited to the range of site and climatic conditions across the Estate will improve the resilience of the woodland and ensure continued growth for future generations.
Christmas Trees
Here at Raby, we grow 5 species of Christmas tree. In recent years Nordman fir has become the most popular choice with its dense green foliage and excellent needle retention. Fraser fir offers a more compact tree where space in the home is more limited but still with great needle holding ability. Norway spruce, seen by many as a traditional Christmas tree, offers a cost-effective option with trees sheared to give a well-shaped, bushy appearance and the smell many of us associate with a good, fresh tree. We also grow a small number of noble fir and blue spruce, both of which offer something a little different, with a blue-green tinge to the foliage.
Find Out MoreSpring Planting and Regeneration
Winter and early spring provides the season for tree planting, and in addition to the thousands of saplings which are replanted across the estates’ woodlands and biodiversity schemes, this year will see an increase in new trees on the parkland at Raby.
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