Coed Cwm Coel Fencing and Rhododendron Clearance – Restoring Access for Conservation Grazing in the Celtic Rainforest

Executive Summary

In September 2024, Enviroculture completed complex fencing and scrub clearance works at Coed Cwm Coel in the Elan Valley as part of the Celtic Rainforest LIFE project for the RSPB. The project involved installing over 1.4 km of new fencing, carrying out extensive scrub and Rhododendron clearance, and reinstating access for future conservation grazing. Despite extremely steep, wooded terrain and difficult access, all works were completed safely and to specification, creating the infrastructure needed to protect and restore one of Wales’s most ecologically valuable woodland habitats.

About the Client

The project was delivered for the RSPB under the EU-funded Celtic Rainforest LIFE project, which aims to improve the condition of ancient and Atlantic woodlands across five SAC sites in Wales. At Coed Cwm Coel, new stock fencing and vegetation management were required to support the introduction of cattle grazing and help maintain the ecological structure and diversity of the woodland.

The Challenge

The site presented significant logistical and environmental challenges. Much of the 11.2-hectare woodland sits on steep slopes with no vehicle access, meaning large sections of fencing could only be installed by hand. The terrain was heavily wooded with brash piles left from previous works, which made navigation and safe footing difficult throughout the job.

In addition to the challenging terrain, Enviroculture had to negotiate access with a private landowner to reach the site via adjoining land and tracks. The woodland itself was highly sensitive, requiring careful coordination with the RSPB to protect ground flora, tree roots, and existing habitat features.

The Solution

A combination of low-impact and manual techniques was used to complete the works safely and efficiently:

• Fencing was installed using a 2.7-tonne excavator fitted with a post knocker for accessible areas, a petrol post knocker and hand post knocker for steep or confined sections, and a ladder system to maintain safe footing on the slopes.

• An excavator-mounted post knocker was used along the reservoir track where ground conditions allowed.

• Rhododendron clearance was carried out using winching methods, pulling plants from the roots and hanging them upside down to dry and prevent regrowth.

All ecological safeguards were followed, including the use of biodegradable hydraulic oil, daily wildlife checks, and biosecurity measures to prevent cross-site contamination. The team also maintained continuous communication with the RSPB and landowner to manage access, safety, and environmental compliance.

The Implementation

The project required both new fencing and repair works across several sections of the site:

• 1,400 metres of new high-tensile galvanised stock fencing with one plain top wire

• 545 metres of re-poling and repair to existing lines

• Two new gateposts installed and an existing gate re-hung

• Full removal of redundant fencing from old exclosures

The steep slope fencing along the western stream edge was installed entirely by hand due to inaccessibility for machinery. Each post was driven using hand tools and portable petrol equipment. Rhododendron and scrub were cleared along the fence line and surrounding woodland using a combination of chainsaws and winches.

Despite heavy brash, steep gradients, and limited access routes, all works were completed within programme and without damage to the woodland floor or surrounding trees.

Additional Projects and Challenges

The steep, uneven terrain and dense brash required careful planning and teamwork. Safety briefings were carried out daily to manage manual handling risks and maintain secure footing. Coordination with the landowner for access and staging of materials was essential, with all equipment and fencing components hand-carried or winched into position.

The Results

• 1.4 km of new fencing installed to British Standard 1722

• Rhododendron removed and cleared across key sections of woodland

• Old and redundant fencing safely removed and disposed of

• Safe access created for future livestock grazing

• Habitat restored to support long-term conservation grazing management

The works have created the infrastructure required for cattle to re-enter the woodland, allowing controlled grazing to maintain the structure and biodiversity of the Atlantic rainforest habitat.

Lessons Learned

Projects on steep, remote woodland slopes require patience, teamwork, and the right combination of manual and mechanical tools. The use of a 2.7-tonne excavator-mounted post knocker, along with winching systems, ladders, and hand tools, proved essential in delivering the works without damaging the sensitive woodland environment. Early coordination with landowners and environmental partners also proved vital to maintaining safe, efficient progress throughout.

Call to Action

For specialist fencing and vegetation management in remote or environmentally sensitive sites, visit www.enviroculture.co.uk or email info@enviroculture.co.uk.