Conifer Plantations

The 20th century saw a dramatic transformation of the British landscape. Following the timber shortages of the World Wars, a national effort was launched to rebuild strategic timber reserves. This led to the establishment of large-scale conifer plantations, a trend that is clearly visible in the woodlands surrounding Sidmouth today.

Why Conifers? The Need for Speed

The Forestry Commission, formed in 1919, drove this afforestation. Conifers were chosen over native broadleaf trees because they are:

• Fast-Growing: They produce high yields of timber in a much shorter timeframe.

• Hardy: They thrive on "marginal" or infertile land, such as moorlands and degraded farmland.

• High Quality: Certain species produce excellent structural timber.

Common Plantation Species in Sidmouth

Species Characteristics Primary Use

Douglas Fir Prefers sheltered, fertile southern areas. High-quality structural timber.

Norway Spruce Traditional timber with very straight growth. General construction and mid-century forestry.

Scots Pine Britain's only native timber conifer. Durable wood often used in mixed plantations.

Larch A unique deciduous conifer with rot-resistant wood. Fencing and cladding (now limited by disease).

The Ecological Cost: PAWS and Shading

Between the 1950s and 1970s, many existing woodlands—including ancient broadleaf sites—were cleared and replanted with these fast-growing conifers. These sites are known as PAWS (Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites).

This conversion often altered the native ecosystem:

• Deep Shade: Evergreen conifers create a dense canopy that prevents light from reaching the forest floor.

• Needle Litter: The thick carpet of acidic needles can inhibit the growth of native woodland flowers like Bluebells or Dog's Mercury.

• Habitat Loss: In the UK, 29% of ancient woodland was cleared and replanted with conifers during the 20th century.

A Shifting Vision: Harvesting and Restoration

Many local plantations, such as those at Bulverton Hill (Douglas Fir) and Fire Beacon Hill, are now reaching maturity. As these trees are harvested, management priorities are shifting from pure timber production to ecological sustainability.

Modern Management Strategies include:

• Continuous Cover: Moving away from "clear-felling" (cutting all trees at once) to selective thinning to allow more light to reach the ground.

• Natural Regeneration: Allowing native plants to "erupt" from the dormant seed bank once the conifer cover is removed, as seen near the Muttersmoor car park.

• Heathland Restoration: In areas like the Pebblebed Heaths, managers may remove stumps and prepare the soil to encourage the return of native heather and gorse.

• Veteranisation: Using techniques to mimic natural decay in younger trees to provide homes for fungi, bats, and birds.