Tree Management
Woodland areas on campus provide important habitats for a variety of species including birds, bats, mammals, invertebrates and reptiles.
Tree planting is carried out during the winter operation period, between September and March. A number of stages are involved in planning tree planting work before the approval of the University is granted and the work is undertaken. Consultation is carried out with members of staff that are specialists in ecology and conservation.
The tree planting plan takes account of the potential size and ecological requirements of the trees. Any potential future hazards are also considered, including light shadowing, new building works, underground utilities, moisture uptake and long term amenity value. The overall aim is to ensure that there is a balanced approach to tree planting, ensuring that we replace any trees affected by building works and enhance the ecology of the site by utilising wild grass areas, orchid areas, meadows and wild flower beds.
Jubilee Woodland, which can be found on the north-western edge of campus, was planted by staff and students of the University in 2012 to commemorate the Queens Jubilee. The plot was grassland and although it is within the Campus boundary, it is also part of the South Downs National Park. Whips of eleven native species were planted within a 2 Hectare plot, totalling 2500 trees. These whips are protected by tree guards.
Tree Survey Data
Using approved tree records dating back to 2000, we have created a tree population record for use when managing the grounds. This provides us with a detailed overview of species on site and identifies areas that may benefit the campus ecology by supplementing species that historically have a poor uptake, and also provides other core information relating to the biodiversity and habitats within our site.
We also construct a detailed tree condition survey on a five year rolling basis, first submitted in 2015. All trees are tagged, numbered, and listed on GPS to help maintain them on a long term basis. This report also details individual tree height, spread, age, diameter, any signs of disease, and amenity value.
Management of disease
The University of Sussex campus has a rare population of the English Elm (Ulmus procera); 31 of these trees are present on campus, 22 of which have been classified as mature. An epidemic of Dutch Elm disease in the late 1960s led to the death of most mature English elms over the next 20 years, with many more lost to stormy weather. Ash dieback (Chalara) is also an emerging threat to the woodlands on site and has the potential to cause significant damage, the effects of which will be combated and handled by the Grounds team as much as possible to sustain this important population.