Dorn Valley Woodlands: Large-scale woodland design and creation
Large-scale woodland design and creation was at the heart of the Dorn Valley Woodlands project, where over a quarter of a million trees were planted across nine woodlands in partnership with the Blenheim Estate and Morgan Sindall Group. The woodlands were carefully positioned to improve the water quality of the River Dorn by filtering pollutants and reducing sediment run-off from agricultural fields in the most optimal areas. This in turn aims to reduce siltation of Blenheim lakes. Extensive site checks included assessing current land use and class, slope, current and historic flood risk maps, designations and protections, and archaeological and heritage restrictions through geophysical surveys and LIDAR. 27 suitable tree species were selected based on soil sampling and climatic predictions to create a resilience, biodiverse patchwork of woodlands. Carbon and timber values were calculated, resulting in these woodlands providing a profitable investment, along with a legacy for the estate, it’s visitors and local communities.
Dorn Valley Woodlands: Large-scale woodland design and creation
Large-scale woodland design and creation was at the heart of the Dorn Valley Woodlands project, where over a quarter of a million trees were planted across nine woodlands in partnership with the Blenheim Estate and Morgan Sindall Group. The woodlands were carefully positioned to improve the water quality of the River Dorn by filtering pollutants and reducing sediment run-off from agricultural fields in the most optimal areas. This in turn aims to reduce siltation of Blenheim lakes. Extensive site checks included assessing current land use and class, slope, current and historic flood risk maps, designations and protections, and archaeological and heritage restrictions through geophysical surveys and LIDAR. 27 suitable tree species were selected based on soil sampling and climatic predictions to create a resilience, biodiverse patchwork of woodlands. Carbon and timber values were calculated, resulting in these woodlands providing a profitable investment, along with a legacy for the estate, it’s visitors and local communities.
Dorn Valley before woodland creation, with arable fields running into the river basin.
Aerial view of the new planting, sequestering 20,000 tonnes of CO2 over its lifetime.
Overview map with 9km of new permissive paths within the woodland scheme.
Map with post-planting aerial drone overlay to provide actual conifer and broadleaf areas.
Geophysical survey.
The Dorn Valley Woodlands project demonstrates how thoughtful planning and collaboration can deliver environmental resilience, biodiversity and long-term value. Explore our full range of Landscape Architecture and Forestry Services to see how we can help bring your vision to life.
Dorn Valley before woodland creation, with arable fields running into the river basin.
Aerial view of the new planting, sequestering 20,000 tonnes of CO2 over its lifetime.
Overview map with 9km of new permissive paths within the woodland scheme.
Map with post-planting aerial drone overlay to provide actual conifer and broadleaf areas.
Geophysical survey.
The Dorn Valley Woodlands project demonstrates how thoughtful planning and collaboration can deliver environmental resilience, biodiversity and long-term value. Explore our full range of Landscape Architecture and Forestry Services to see how we can help bring your vision to life.
