I first learned that some areas of woods and overgrown quarries near Penpell qualify for the designation ‘Temperate Rainforest’ a couple of years back, when we conducted an exploratory walk of introduction, for representatives of the Cornwall Wildlife Trust.
From that moment of enchantment, I began to study the key elements, particularly lichens and mosses, some of which are likely to be quite rare. The technical term for these is ‘Bryophytes’ and we have quite a lot in Cornwall. There is even an entire Bryophite Site of Special Scientific Interest, in Penwith, plus other known examples at Golitha Falls, Tolgus Tin Works, Poldice Valley and Porkellis Moor. But so far, to my knowledge, no one official has made much attempt to record what is here.
Over the autumn and winter, from 2024 to 25, I undertook a detailed study of woodland management. This involved watching Sandi Toksvig’s excellent TV series and visiting a variety of places that might illustrate best practice, some near home e.g. again at Golitha Falls and the Tamar Valley. But another big one was hundreds of miles away – the Stanmer Park woodland near Brighton. From all of this content I made a full set of films, and recommendations. So far they are sitting in One Drive unacknowledged … but do please ask if you would like to view them. Anyway, that is why I decided to take some positive steps that can alert more people to the potential.
I taught groups in the Full STEAMS Ahead programme about the shocking statistics of more CO2 being released from rotting trunks than from all the fossil fuels we burn in a year. I encouraged those adults with experience and a certificate of using chain saws to help me clear invasive species from places that needed opening up, and one of those provides our new Secret Forest, Secret Stream learning place. Since this photo, we have finished the fire pit, put in 2 wildflower areas on different banks and made a little hidey hole under an awning, for story telling. This is for partners to use, as well as us.
Making the Most of Waste Wood
What we really hope is, later this year, to start running short courses with Aiden of Kernow Horse Logging, to remove fallen trunks and bring them here for drying and making into platters or tables. The end result will combine wood with lichens, moss and ivy, set in clear resin.
Over the recent May Half Term we found Lauren, a wonderful young artist, who added to the talents of Simon and Jenny, helping to plan designs and try different tools and techniques.
We also have plans for using redundant pallets, to make small signs – such as the one sanded by young Theo in the 3rd photo. The message says ‘Please Take Litter Home’ and he added impact with the bits of rubbish he had retrieved in the room!’
Waste not, Want not
Wood is not the only waste we are looking to make use of. This has always been in our philosophy. From the old freezer, now home to pots of tomatoes, rhubarb and French beans, to the dress I made out of hessian sacks (with help from Bob’s wife, Susan) and wore to the Sustainability Award Ceremony in Truro!
