Site Address: Gilfach Nature Reserve, St Harmon, Rhayader, LD6 5LF 

Woodland Location Grid Reference (approximate centre): SN 95482 71220 

Woodland Location What 3 Words (approximate centre): ///scout.marshes.myths 

Work Brief:  

• Clearance of vegetation and regrading of a 1.2 kilometre forestry access track including turning circle, to enable timber lorry access. 

• Clear fell of a 0.8 hectare plot of Scots pine, timber to be extracted to for collection 

• Clear fell of a 0.4 hectare plot of Sitka Spruce, timber to be extracted to for collection 

• Fell remaining Scots Pine in a 5 hectare plot (previously extensively thinned area), retaining regenerated mixed broadleaf trees, timber to be extracted for collection 

• Clear fell of a 0.45 hectare Larch plot, to be felled by hand with timber left secured in place, due to lack of accessibility for machinery. 

• Selective thin of 1 hectare of Silver Birch within a 6 hectare plot of regeneration through the creation of rides and glades, timber to be extracted for collection

Accessibility: The forestry access track leads straight off the A470 between Rhayader and the Gilfach Nature Reserve Entrance. This track extends the full length below the Sitka and Scots pine plots and above the Silver Birch plot. The Larch is not accessible with machinery. Accessing trees towards the top of the hill may require construction of an additional track for a forwarder/harvester. 

Environmental Considerations: The broader site is designated as Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC). 

Arisings: Marketable timber to be extracted to the access track for collection where practicable. Where not possible, timber is to be safely secured to prevent movement. Brash is to be rowed. 

Site Safety: Gilfach is our flagship nature reserve and very popular with visitors, therefore a high standard of health and safety must be maintained. The work area is not accessible to the public, the contractor is responsible for all safety signage and any necessary traffic management at the site’s entrance at the main road. 

Reasoning: To restore a diverse and native deciduous broadleaf woodland through a combination approach of intervention partial felling (of dominant, monoculture) and allowing for natural regeneration. This will also enhance the structure and diversity of the regenerated adjoining Birch Woodland. 

Contact: To arrange a site visit please contact Robert Hall - Reserves Officer, 07990913227, or robert@rwtwales.org 

Dates: Work to be completed by Spring 2025