NEW TOOLS were wielded in earnest for the time as Friends of Petersfield Heath tackled saplings threatening to encroach into the open areas of the heath.
Working towards the central area of woodland next to the old golf course, the volunteers used a new ‘Tree Popper’ to lift small birch and holly saplings, with no damage being done to the ground underneath.
The popper hails from Australia, and was bought using a grant from South Downs National Park Authority.
Friends chairman Richard Warton said, “As with all our woodland tasks we are active until the birds begin their nesting cycle.
“Our new tools are helping speed up the work so that we will have time to assist the final phase of archaeology clearances before the beginning of February, by which time we hope there will be no more disturbance to the habitat.”
Friends of Petersfield Heath work-parties aim to help improve the biodiversity of the heath by maintaining a range of habitats from dense woodland and scrub to open grass and heath areas.
For more information contact Melanie Oxley on 07814506405, or email [email protected]