Ancient trees and their biodiversity value on UK golf courses
In the tranquil landscapes of the United Kingdom’s golf courses, ancient trees stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time. These admired giants, with their gnarled trunks and sprawling canopies, not only lend an air of majesty to the scenery but also serve as vital hubs of biodiversity.
Guided by the expertise of organisations like the Ancient Tree Forum (ATF) and Woodland Trust, golf courses are recognising the importance of these ancient guardians, and embracing strategies and tree management policies to protect and enhance the biodiversity they support.
The ATF, a leading authority on ancient trees, defines these arboreal marvels as individuals that have reached an advanced age, often spanning several centuries. Their longevity and resilience make them invaluable components of the UK’s natural heritage, and their conservation is paramount to maintaining biodiversity within golf course landscapes. The Woodland Trust, in conjunction with the ATF, provides comprehensive guidelines and recommendations for managing ancient trees, outlining strategies to ensure their preservation and the enhancement of associated biodiversity.
Ancient trees are not merely relics of the past; they are dynamic ecosystems in their own right, supporting a rich diversity of flora and fauna. From the towering oaks to the majestic beeches, each species harbours a unique assemble of life forms, from microscopic organisms to charismatic vertebrates. Birds, in particular, are highly dependent on ancient trees for nesting sites, roosting spots, and foraging opportunities. Species such as Woodpeckers, Owls and Nuthatches rely on the nooks and crannies of ancient trees for shelter and breeding, contributing to the vibrant avian community within golf course habitats.
But it’s not just birds that benefit from the presence of ancient trees; mammals also find refuge amidst their branches and hollows. Bats, for instance, are known to roost in the crevices of ancient trees, emerging at dusk to forage for insects in the surrounding landscape. Squirrels, dormice, and even rare species like the barbastelle bat depend on ancient trees for food and shelter, highlighting the interconnectedness of these majestic beings with the broader ecosystem.
Furthermore, ancient trees provide vital resources for a plethora of invertebrate species, from beetles and butterflies to spiders and fungi. The decaying wood and leaf litter associated with ancient trees create microhabitats teeming with life, supporting a complex web of interactions essential for ecosystem functioning.
Epiphytic plants, such as mosses, lichens and ferns, find purchase on the branches and trunks of ancient trees, adding to the richness of biodiversity and providing food and shelter for a myriad of organisms.
Incorporating the recommendations of the ATF and Woodland Trust into golf course management practices is crucial for safeguarding the biodiversity associated with ancient trees. Proactive identification and assessment of ancient trees, using methods such as tree surveys and mapping technologies, enable golf course managers to prioritise conservation efforts and implement targeted management strategies. Protection measures, including the establishment of buffer zones and regular monitoring, help mitigate potential threats and ensure the long-term health and resilience of ancient trees.
Tips on how to care for Veteran or Ancient trees in an Amenity environment:
- Relieve Compaction - Creating a buffer zone of wild area, 5m larger than the Crown if possible, to help the roots grow; preventing root and soil damage.
- Light – Pruning or felling of sprightly younger trees immediately surrounding the tree competing for light.
- Space – Allowing the tree crown adequate spreading room.
- Decay – Value and keep dead trees and wood wherever possible, as this supports specialist wildlife that need this to survive. If a tree must be cut down, leave tall stumps (Monolith) which can be allowed to break down naturally.
- Restricting uses of pesticides and fertilisers near the tree, as these can harm the mycorrhizal fungi, microorganisms and lichens which colonise the tree.
Enhancing biodiversity around ancient trees involves creating habitat corridors, diversifying understorey vegetation, and incorporating features such as deadwood habitats to support a wide range of species. By fostering partnerships with conservation organisations, local communities and other stakeholders, golf courses can leverage resources and expertise to maximise the effectiveness of their conservation initiatives and contribute to broader landscape-scale conservation efforts.
In conclusion, ancient trees play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity within UK golf courses and amenity sports landscapes, serving as keystones of ecological resilience and cultural heritage. By embracing the guidance of organisations like the Ancient Tree Forum and Woodland Trust, golf courses can fulfil their role as custodians of the land, preserving the legacy of ancient trees for future generations to enjoy. As we strive to protect and enhance the biodiversity of our landscapes, let us remember that the roots of conservation run deep, anchored in the timeless wisdom of the ancient trees that grace our golf courses.
If you do have an ancient tree on your course, you can log this on to the Ancient Tree Inventory (ATI) by adding this tree to the inventory, you’ll be helping us to map, celebrate and protect our most important trees of the U.K. Please visit https://ati.woodlandtrust.org.uk/
For more information on tree preservation, please visit:
www.ancienttreeforum.org.uk or www.woodlandtrust.org.uk
Article by David Chammings – Amenity Specialist – Agrovista Amenity. David is also a Verifier for Ancient Tree Forum and a Volunteer for the Woodland Trust.