1. A long term management plan, produced in May 1997 by Harrogate Borough Council, with work beginning in the wood in September/October 1997, should ensure the woodland's future and control the birch dominance. We have undertaken research which indicates that many of the plants, ferns, grasses and shrubbery which were present in the woods 30 years ago have simply disappeared. The group hope to replace some of the plant species during 1998.
2. In an attempt to help re-generation of ground cover, and to make the woodland a more pleasant place to walk, the Group's volunteers have been gravelling the main footpaths in the wood. This project is ongoing.
3. In an effort to re-fill the ponds our volunteers have cleaned out and improved the drainage ditches which run throughout the woodland. In February 1997 their work was rewarded when the level in one pond at last began to rise dramatically. However, there is still much work to be done if ponds are to reach their former levels.
4. Ensuring the Living Bridge survives is a firm objective of the Group. Obviously this is closely linked with the water levels in the ponds, but we also ensure the Group is a "window" for publicising the importance of this unique structure. On 4th May 1997 a celebration of the Living Bridge's second birthday was arranged by the Group who produced a play based on the history of Hookstone Wood, performed by local children from Hookstone Chase Primary School, The AVA School of Dance and The Harrogate School of Gymnastics.
5. One of the group's main functions is to inform and educate people on the importance of this woodland. To this aim speakers on subjects relevant to the wood have been arranged, including butterflies, moths, fungi and bats.
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP PRESERVE HOOKSTONE AND CRIMPLE WOODS FOR THE FUTURE
This group was started in July 1996 and has a substantial and growing membership and a Committee of seven people who are committed to the Group's objectives.
To enable us to achieve these objectives we need to prove the value of this woodland to the residents of Harrogate. You can pledge your support by becoming a member of the Group for just £5.00 (membership running from July-July each year). We will send you a regular (presently monthly) newsletter, updating you on the Group's activities and you will be invited to the Group's meetings, including the social/educational evenings.
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