ForestHarvest :   non-timber forest products in Scotland

Wet woodlands

In areas where the ground is permanently or seasonally waterlogged, woodlands dominated by alder, willow and birch tend to occur. These wet woodlands, often surrounding bogs or along the margins of rivers and lochs, are usually very restricted in extent.

• The areas where these woods occur, particularly along rivers, may be constantly changing. As the ground consolidates and becomes less waterlogged, the woodland gradually matures, with species such as oak and ash gradually taking over. Conversely, where new waterlogged ground opens up as the river deposits new sandbanks, the wet woodlands spread.
• Wet woodlands can play an important role in helping to control riverbank erosion.
• Strips of wet woodland serve as important 'wildlife corridors' in areas where few other trees are growing. They also provide an important habitat for riverine species such as otters, kingfishers and invertebrates.

What to find in a wet woodland

Willow

Alder

Meadowsweet

Woodcock