woodscaping
The term "woodscaping" refers to the application of landscaping in wooded areas. As a rule, these areas are used frequently for walking, bird watching, wildlife observation, winter activities (snowshoeing and cross-country skiing), etc.
"Woodscaping may be defined as the careful landscaping of forest land to reveal the 'genius of the place'--those features that make a place special and unique. This entails working with the forest vegetation to feature the property's assets, increasing recreational possibilities, and at the same time, preserving the integrity of the forest ecosystem...
What are some of the methods to consider?
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Creating a trail system linking features of interest to improve access and provide opportunities for hiking, cross-country skiing and wildlife observation.
- Cutting and/or pruning selected trees and understory plants to highlight
specimen trees and other features and to create views and wildlife habitat
diversity.
- Thinning stands to create perspectives.
- Clearing overlook areas to create views
- Creating a campsite in an area of particular scenic beauty such as near
water or with views.
- Planting native groundcovers, shrubs, and trees along trails and in
openings to enhance visual interest and wildlife habitat diversity; also
planting fruit and nut trees and bushes.
- Recreating grazed woodlots, once an attractive feature of New England's
landscape.
- Constructing a pond for swimming and increased wildlife habitat diversity." ***
From the article "Woodscaping Your Property"
by Hilary Woodcock and Karl Davies, June 1994. For the complete text of
the article, please go to
http://www.daviesand.com/Papers/Aesthetics/Woodscaping/index.html.
