Why are there no trees on the mountains in England and Scotland?

For a long time, it has been a common belief that there are no trees on the mountains in England and Scotland. However, this is far from the truth. There are indeed trees on these mountainous areas, but the presence and absence of trees are closely linked to the human activity and natural factors over the centuries.

The Role of Grazing Sheep

The primary reason for the perceived lack of trees on the mountains is the presence of sheep. Sheep are notorious for consuming young trees, which stops them from growing into mature trees. The constant grazing by sheep has been a significant hindrance to the reemergence of forests on these mountainous regions.

The Concept of the Tree Line

It's important to understand the concept of the tree line. The tree line is the elevation above which trees do not naturally grow due to harsh climatic conditions and other factors. According to a piece in the local newspaper, forestry and mountain features are now expanding in some areas, indicating a potential increase in the tree line.

Historical Forest Clearances and Human Activities

A significant portion of the forest was cleared for agricultural purposes. In the past, wool was a major commodity and source of national wealth, and sheep played a crucial role in grazing hillside areas. This forest clearance coupled with the overabundance of sheep has led to the current situation where only few trees can be seen through the heather.

The Impact of Historical Events and Industrialization

The historical events, such as the Napoleonic Wars, had a significant impact on forest clearance. To build ships for the war, entire hectares of trees were cut down. Additionally, the Industrial Revolution further exacerbated the issue with a sudden high demand for charcoal to smelt iron. By the time the electric furnace was invented, the mature trees were nearly depleted in the UK.

Current Reforestation Efforts and Positive Changes

Fortunately, things are changing. Trophy hunting has become less popular, and less feed is being dumped on the hills during winters. This has led to a reduction in sheep and deer populations, which in turn, has allowed young trees to grow. Moreover, entire estates have been bought out by local residents, leading to better forest management. Reforestation efforts are yielding positive results, with areas previously barren and windswept now turning green and lush.

The William Spence and Company story in Glen Nowhere provides a poignant example. As Donnie London, a local farmer, predicted, the forest was never gone; it was simply hidden under the heather. The forest began to regrow as the overpopulation of deer and sheep decreased, and local residents took over the land.

Conclusion

The landscape of England and Scotland is continually changing, with reforestation efforts making a significant impact. By supporting local initiatives, such as eating Scottish venison, we can help bring back the forests and preserve the natural beauty of these regions. The transformation of barren hills into lush forests is a testament to the resilience of nature and the impact of human intervention.

So, while it may seem like there are no trees on the mountains, it is essential to understand the complex interplay of human activities, natural factors, and historical events that have shaped the landscape. With ongoing efforts and support, we can restore the greenery and biodiversity of these mountainous areas.