Ancient Woods, Trees and Forests: Ecology, History and Management

Trees and woods have inspired artists, writers, and scientists throughout history, but global forest cover has declined dramatically over the last 1,000 years. Primeval forests are only found at a few sites unreachable by humans, and they are affected by climate change, atmospheric pollution, and species extinctions. This timely volume reflects on the importance of our oldest trees from a range of perspectives and geographical locations, with contributions from major authorities in the field. It will raise awareness, foster enthusiasm, and inspire wonder.

Format: Hardback
Length: 488 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2023
Publisher: Pelagic Publishing

From the dawn of time to the present day, trees and woods have been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, and scientists, shaping cultures and reverberating through belief systems. However, alarmingly, global forest cover has declined significantly over the past millennium. Today, primeval forests can only be found in isolated locations, often inaccessible to humans, and they are already facing the devastating impacts of climate change, atmospheric pollution, and species extinction.

Despite these challenges, ancient woods, trees, and forests continue to play a vital role in many global landscapes. To fully comprehend the invaluable resources they provide, multidisciplinary research is essential. This timely volume, with contributions from esteemed experts in the field, including Oliver Rackham, Frans Vera, Elisabeth Johann, George Peterken, and Melvyn Jones, among others, explores the significance of our oldest trees from diverse perspectives and geographical locations.

Individual chapters delve into various aspects, such as eco-cultural heritage, the archaeology of trees, landscape history, forest rights, tree management, saproxylic insects, the importance of deadwood, practical conservation and monitoring, biodiversity, wood-pasture, and more. Fresh insights are offered from across Europe, extending as far as Turkey. Given the urgent need to understand, conserve, and restore ancient woodlands and trees, this book will undoubtedly raise awareness, foster enthusiasm, and ignite wonder.

Weight: 1392g
Dimension: 250 x 176 x 32 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781784272647