Brackland Rough facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Cambridgeshire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 10.7 hectares |
| Notification | 1984 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Brackland Rough is a special natural area in Fordham, Cambridgeshire. It covers about 10.7 hectares, which is roughly the size of 15 football fields! This site is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because of its important plants and wildlife. It is looked after by the Wildlife Trust for Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire and is also known as Fordham Woods.
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What Makes Brackland Rough Special?
Brackland Rough is a unique "wet woodland" area. This means it's a forest that often has very damp or wet ground. It's a perfect home for many plants and trees that love water. The area is protected to keep its natural beauty and important species safe.
Trees and Plants You Can See
The woodland at Brackland Rough has many interesting trees. You'll find lots of alder trees, which are often managed by a method called "coppicing." There are also ash trees, crack willow, and silver birch. These trees create a wonderful habitat for other plants and animals.
The ground beneath the trees is just as interesting! It's home to "tall fens," which are types of wetlands with tall grasses and other plants. You might also spot beautiful wildflowers like marsh marigold with its bright yellow flowers, and yellow flag, another yellow flower that looks a bit like an iris.
What is Coppicing?
Coppicing is an old way of managing trees. It involves cutting down trees close to the ground. This makes new shoots grow from the stump. It helps keep the woodland healthy and provides wood. It also creates different light levels, which helps many types of plants and animals to thrive.
Visiting Brackland Rough
If you want to explore Brackland Rough, you can access it by a footpath. The path starts from River Lane. It's a great place to enjoy nature and see the special plants and trees up close. Remember to respect the environment and stay on the paths.
