Restoring
Habitats

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Restoring habitats

The New Forest is one of Europe’s most important locations for nature and conservation.

As part of the HLS scheme, Forestry England has been helping to restore the New Forest’s precious heathlands, species-rich grasslands, wetlands, bogs and ancient woodlands.

These habitats have been shaped through centuries of management activities and grazing, thanks to Commoners’ ponies and cattle turned out onto the Forest.

They are internationally important and support many species including birds, reptiles, invertebrates, flowering plants, lichens and fungi.

Restoration projects

Habitat restoration projects focus on restoring the New Forest’s internationally important landscapes by reversing past changes, improving water flows and supporting traditional grazing. Working alongside Commoners and partner organisations, the programme helps ensure the New Forest remains a rich, resilient environment for wildlife and people alike.
A stream running between grassland with several large logs to the left and trees in the background

Knightwood
A muddy area partly surrounded by a fence

Picket Mire
Grassland with trees in the background and a cloudy sky

Matley Bog
Grassland shot from above

Penny Moor
Map of Wootton HLS restoration site along Avon Water from Wootton to Mead End, outlined in blue with north arrow and scale bar

Wootton