Fallen beech branch

One of our two massive beech trees, near post 19, has suffered some injuries in the last few months.

Two large branches actually peeled off and fell.  Thank goodness no-one was underneath.

Some of the remaining branches were also covered in Bjerkandera fungus, which showed that the wood was largely dead.

The branches have now been shortened  .  .  .

.  .  .  leaving some useful timber on the ground.  

Notice how the nettles and brambles are encroaching now that the deep shade of the beech canopy has been removed. 

The twigs and small wood were turned into woodchip, 

which we can use on the paths and steps.

 Some of the other branches were also shortened 

to reduce the leverage forces exerted by the wind.

We have been able to retain the tree but it now presents less of a risk to people.