THE MANAGEMENT OF EPPING FOREST.
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(5) Pollard Hornbeams.—A vast proportion of the area of the Forest is
covered by Pollard Hornbeams. In parts they are an interesting feature, but the
practice of pollarding having been discontinued, the trees are now so dense that
neither light nor air can penetrate. We consider that with a view to encouraging
the growth of better trees and varying the monotony of the Forest, the best
course will be, not generally to thin the trees, but to make bold clearances among
them. The finer Pollard Oaks throughout the Forest should be carefully
preserved.
(6) Planting.—We are opposed to any artificial planting in the Forest. The
natural vegetation is so luxuriant that there is little need of the planter if Nature
be allowed to take her course ; but where the tree growth falls short it would be
advisable to assist it by the introduction of seed of the trees which are indigenous
to the Forest, It may be necessary for a time to protect certain spaces against
the inroads of cattle, horses, and deer.
(7) We most strongly object to the planting of any Foreign trees.
(8) We do not approve of the small ring plantations which have been formed
in parts of the Forest. They are, in our judgment, out of keeping with the true
character of the woodlands.
(9) Underwood.—Although in many places this forms one of the beauties of
the Forest, we do not think that in all parts sacrifices should be made for the
purpose of encouraging it where the trees do not allow of its healthy growth, as
under Beeches. The effect of closely-massed forest trees constitutes a beauty in
itself.
(10) Drainage.—We consider that there should be as little artificial drainage as
possible, though in the case of rides or drives it is sometimes necessary. The
natural drainage is in most places sufficient, and the streamlets should be allowed
to make their own courses,
(11) In approaching the question of thinning, we think we can best point out
our views by taking as examples a few typical parts of the Forest, as it is
impossible to lay down any general principles for dealing with so vast and various
an area.
(12) Hawk Wood is, in the main, an Oak Wood, and the trees are not such
as would be improved by wholesale thinning. It would be, in our opinion, wise
to take out no trees, except such as are obviously dying, and a few scrubby
stunted trees which are injuring the others. Where, here and there, a single
specimen of more than usual beauty can be encouraged into noble growth, it
should be protected from overcrowding. But we attach great importance to
preserving the massive character of the Forest, especially in this Wood.
(13) Monk Wood.—This consists of fine old Pollarded Beeches, and, in our
judgment, it needs no further thinning for many years to come.
(14) High Beach.—The trees here are of considerable age and beauty, and we
do not think that they should be interfered with.
(15) Walthamstow Wood.—The beautiful undergrowth of Holly is here a
distinctive feature. There are a few dead and dying trees which should be
removed, and here and there some Pollards, which threaten to injure the Hollies.
The healthy Oaks, even where crowded, should be left standing. The beauty of
tall oak stems, often lichen-covered, when growing in close woods, should be
considered.
(16) Theydon High Wood.—Here are Beech trees of moderate age which have