Law firm announce Small Woods Association partnership

This initiative is part of Mills & Reeve’s Achieving more for nature’s recovery programme, where the firm supports the biodiversity efforts of organisations passionate about nature restoration and giving back to the community. 

Modern woodlands face numerous challenges, many of which have been introduced through human activity, including diseases, like ash dieback, and pests like deer. When managed, woodlands are vital to thriving local economies, wildlife, and the wellbeing of surrounding communities, as well as hugely valuable in the fight against climate change.

Small Woods is a charity funded through its membership, grants and corporate support, like that of Mills & Reeve’s. It is dedicated to promoting wildlife conservation in sites such as Edge Wood which is rich with ash, oak and hazel and hosts a variety of flora and fauna. At Edge Wood, biodiversity is enhanced through a traditional management technique known as coppicing, historically practiced on the site for hundreds of years. By cutting the hazel in cycles, a diverse suite of species associated with these woodlands is supported. 

The impact of their work extends beyond environmental benefits, providing new opportunities for people in the community. Programmes like “Build a Bench”, a fully funded 12-week initiative offering weekly green wood craft sessions, help volunteers learn basic skills which are at risk of being lost, increases community activity and boosts wellbeing.

Mills & Reeve’s support will further help to develop these woodlands. Their investment will help to fund a social forestry coordinator and cover transportation costs for participants to project sites, fencing around selected areas to protect plants from deer browsing, materials for a shelter and welfare facilities for volunteers, as well as providing tools and PPE where needed. 

Jessica Wilkes-Ball, head of sustainability and net zero at Mills & Reeve, commented:

“The impact of Small Woods’ work is evident. Our investment will help to expand these efforts, and underscores Mills & Reeve’s commitment to preserving biodiversity and supporting local communities. This is a project that not only gives back to the land but gives back to the people. We’re hearing stories about the impact that Small Woods is having, and we’re happy to be able to continue their work through this investment.”

Simon James, CEO of Small Woods Association, added:

“This partnership with Mills & Reeve is a significant step forward in our mission to preserve and enhance the biodiversity of our woodlands. By combining our expertise in woodland management with Mills & Reeve’s commitment to sustainability, we can ensure that these vital ecosystems continue to thrive for generations to come. Together, we’re not only protecting the environment but also enriching the lives of the communities connected to these woodlands. This collaboration is a testament to the power of long-term, dedicated investment in nature’s recovery.”

Pic: Law firm, Mills & Reeve, with a large existing presence in the Midlands, has announced a significant investment regionally based Small Woods Association