Trees and Woodlands

Trees and Woodlands is a comprehensive book that explores the ecology, nature conservation, and cultural value of native trees and shrubs in Britain. It combines personal experiences from 60 years of research by Peterken, a leading voice in British woodland ecology, and features almost 300 color photographs. The book highlights the importance of woodlands to people, supplying timber, food, fuel, carbon, and places of refuge and refreshment, but also acknowledges that they are under threat from neglect, disease, and climate change. Peterken concludes that most woods should be managed, with their timber and small wood being put to good use, but recognizes that this is part of a larger question about the future of ourselves.

Format: Hardback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 16 February 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Trees are the defining feature of woodlands, providing a complex and diverse habitat for a wide range of wildlife. At the same time, trees are also living organisms that react to their environment and interact with each other. Woodlands hold immense importance for people, offering valuable resources such as timber, food, fuel, carbon storage, and recreational spaces. However, these precious ecosystems are also under threat. Some trees stand in the way of progress, while others are increasingly vulnerable to neglect, disease, and climate change.

Trees and Woodlands is a comprehensive book that brings together over 60 years of research by a leading voice in British woodland ecology. Written by Peterken, a forest ecologist with 60 years of experience, the book explores the ecology, nature conservation, and cultural value of native trees and shrubs, and the ways they have combined to form woodlands.

Through personal anecdotes and insights, Peterken describes the long history of use and management of woodlands, how it has influenced wildlife and our art, beliefs, and social attitudes. He argues that most woods should be managed, with their timber and small wood being put to good use. However, he also recognizes that this is part of a larger question: the future of ourselves and our relationship with the natural world.

The book is filled with nearly 300 photographs, showcasing the beauty and diversity of representative woods across Britain. Each photograph is accompanied by box texts that provide detailed information about the history and ecology of the woodlands depicted. This commentary on trees, woodlands, and our relationship with them is written from the perspective of one of our most highly regarded forest ecologists.

Trees and Woodlands is a valuable resource for anyone interested in nature, ecology, and the conservation of our natural heritage. It offers a deeper understanding of the role of trees in shaping our world and provides insights into the challenges and opportunities we face in managing and preserving these precious ecosystems.

Weight: 1300g
Dimension: 248 x 175 x 33 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472987013