Wildfire Risks: Habitats Lost in Seconds

As we face another UK heatwave this week, and watch on the news the huge wildfires still raging across parts of Europe, it is becoming increasingly hard not to imagine such an event happening here on the Forest. Already, this summer people have been evacuated elsewhere in the UK because of wildfires.

With the repeated heatwaves this summer, the unusual, prolonged warmth and lack of rain is putting our heathland and woodland at increased risk. The landscape and everything in it is drying out, and much of the Forest’s vegetation receives no moisture at all. All these factors combined with human activity, make the risk of a large, fast-moving fire like those in Europe unfortunately more real.

Managing Ashdown Forest’s habitats is critical

The Forest’s habitat management work helps rare and vulnerable species thrive but it is also a critical part of protecting those habitats, species and people from the devastating spread of a forest fire.

The conservation teams work hard on maintaining an active healthy heathland with thriving bogs. This includes managing the all too fire-friendly stands of bracken and gorse, managing fire breaks and looking after the woodlands. Visitors also play a critical part in protecting the Forest by not lighting fires or barbecues on the forest or leaving litter.

How you can help protect Ashdown Forest from wildfires

  1. Do not light fires/barbecues – small sparks caught on the wind or embers can quickly catch light in the vegetation.
  2. Take all litter home – it acts as tinder, flies on the wind and in the case of glass, can actually ignite a fire.
  3. Call emergency services if you suspect a fire. Do not try to tackle it yourself.
  4. Support our conservation teams – become a volunteer and help us manage the heathlands.
  5. Donate to help us support habitat management and protect our vulnerable species.

The Ashdown Forest Centenary Crowdfunder – Match Funded!

We’ve launched a crowdfunder inspired by Winnie-the-Pooh’s 100th birthday this year. As well as celebrating the past 100 years, we’re looking forward to the next chapter in Ashdown Forest’s story. You can be a hero, and help protect and care for the Forest, its habitats and the species that depend on it in the face of a changing climate and increasing wildfire risk.

Even better, right now you can double your impact – every donation up to £250 will be match-funded by The Aviva Foundation.