Historically trees and shrubs would have grown in the sheltered valleys and cloughs that lead onto the High Peak moors. Changes in land use over time mean there are only a few ‘clough woodlands’ left, with limited habitat connectivity between them.
Woodland was once wide-spread in the moorland cloughs, but is now under-represented on the High Peak moors in terms of habitats that are natural to the area. These woodlands provide shelter and habitat for insects, birds and mammals. Without the trees, the hill slopes have become less diverse in species – both local plants and of the insects and birds which should thrive in this habitat.
Since 2013, the National Trust has planted 100,000 trees across 27 sites in the High Peak. Much of this has been supported through grant funding from the Forestry Commission and Natural England, but so much more still needs to be done. If you would like to help us, why not donate to the Peak District Appeal where all the money raised will go towards regenerating woodland in the Peak District.
