Nature and Nurture, a two-hectare riparian woodland nestled along the River Avon in Wiltshire, has become a focal point for the cultivation of cricket bat willow (Salix alba var. caerulea). This low-lying area, characterised by a blend of alder and willow trees, experiences seasonal flooding, with water levels often surpassing one metre for two to three days and persisting for several weeks each year. The woodland features an established plantation of approximately 600 cricket bat willows, strategically planted in two rows to create a 1.6km avenue along the riverbank. Renowned for their swift growth and straight trunks, these willows yield lightweight yet robust timber, making them highly sought after for crafting cricket bats.
The Impact of Eurasian Beavers on Tree Health
Eurasian beavers have inhabited this section of the River Avon for at least three years, during which they have felled five cricket bat willows, resulting in significant timber loss. Recognising the threat posed by these mammals, landowner Tristram Lewis sought effective measures to safeguard the remaining trees from further damage. Fencing off the entire area was impractical due to the high costs and labour involved. Additionally, seasonal flooding posed a risk of debris accumulation against any fencing, which could disrupt natural water flow and require planning permissions. With a desire to avoid hindering the movement of other wildlife, Tristram opted for a more focused strategy: protecting each individual cricket bat willow.
Implementing Effective Tree Protection Strategies
With financial backing from the Countryside Stewardship Protection and Infrastructure grant (BC4), Tristram embarked on a project to install welded-mesh tree guards around each cricket bat willow between 2023 and 2024. Each guard was anchored with two hardwood stakes to ensure stability. To accommodate the site’s frequent flooding, the guards were installed to a height of 100 to 120cm, exceeding the minimum requirement of 90cm. This adjustment was crucial to keep the guards above the floodwaters. However, Tristram discovered that the rubber strips intended to prevent rubbing against the trees needed to be secured tightly, as strong floods could displace them.
Over time, concerns grew regarding the durability of wooden stakes in the waterlogged conditions, as they could rot after prolonged submersion. Tristram noted that the above-ground portions of the stakes could remain submerged for weeks, while the buried sections could endure even longer periods of saturation. After consulting with the Rural Payments Agency, he obtained approval to replace the wooden stakes with rebar (reinforcing bar) metal stakes, which proved to be far more resilient. This change has significantly reduced the need for replacements and repairs to the tree guards. Despite some native, unprotected alder and willow still facing foraging pressures, no protected trees have fallen victim to beaver damage. The grant covered all installation expenses, even for safeguarding exposed roots.
Future Plans for Sustainable Land Management
Encouraged by the success of his protective measures, Tristram intends to apply the same strategies when planting new cricket bat willows in the upcoming spring. He advocates that other landowners facing similar challenges should consider pursuing the Countryside Stewardship grant. Looking ahead, Tristram envisions introducing a small number of cattle for seasonal grazing on the site, which would benefit both the livestock and help manage the dense nettle growth surrounding the cricket bat willows. Without intervention, these nettles can grow up to 2.1m tall, complicating access for the installation and maintenance of tree protection.
For the time being, livestock access remains restricted due to concerns that cattle might damage the welded-mesh tree guards and the prohibitive costs of installing additional cattle-proof guards. Nevertheless, Tristram remains dedicated to refining his management practices and adapting his approach to ensure the long-term viability of the cricket bat willow plantation.
Resources for Further Assistance
For those seeking additional information, several resources are available:
- Countryside Stewardship: Information on applying for a Protection and Infrastructure grant.
- NatureScot: Guidance on protecting trees from Eurasian beavers using wire mesh.
- Beaver Management Group: Support and advice for landowners in England, Scotland, and Wales living alongside Eurasian beavers.
- Visual Guide: A guide on identifying damage to trees by small mammals, beavers, and domestic grazing species.