THE MANACIEMENT OK EPPING FOREST. II9 



(5) Pollard Hornheains. — A vasi proportion of the area of tlie Forest is 

 covered by Pollard Hornbeams. In parts they are an interesting feature, but the 

 practice of pollarding having been discontinued, the trees are now so dense that 

 neither light nor air can penetrate. We consider that with a view to encouragina; 

 the growth of better trees and varying the monotony of the Forest, the best 

 course will be, not generally to thin the trees, but tq make bold clearances among 

 them. The finer Pollard Oaks throughout the Forest should be carefully 

 preserved. 



(6) Planting. — We are opposed to any artificial planxing in the Forest. The 

 natural vegetation is so luxuriant that there is little need of the planter if Nature 

 be allowed to take her course ; but where the tree growth falls short it would be 

 advisable to assist it by the introduction of seed of the trees which are indigenous 

 to the Forest. It may be necessary for a lime to protect certain spaces against 

 the inroads of cattle, horses, and deer. 



(7) We most strongly object to the planting of any l-\>reign trees. 



(8) We do not approve of the small ring plantations which have been formed 

 in parts of the Forest. They are, in our judgment, out of keeping with the true 

 character of the woodlands. 



(9) Underwood. — Although in many places this forms one of the beauties of 

 the Forest, we do not think that in all parts sacrifices should be made for the 

 purpose of encouraging it where the trees do not allow of its healthy growth, as 

 under Beeches. The effect of closely-massed forest trees constitutes a beauty in 

 itself. 



(10) Drainage. — We consider that there should be as little artificial drainage as 

 possible, though in the case of rides or drives it is sometimes necessary. The 

 natural drainage is in most places sufficient, and the streamlets should be allowed 

 to make their own courses. 



(11) In approaching the question of thinning, we think we can best point out 

 our \iews by taking as examples a few typical parts of the Forest, as it is 

 impossible to lay down any general principles for dealing with so vast and various 

 un area. 



(12) Hawk Wood is, in the main, an Oak \\'ood, ami the trees are not such 

 as would be improved by wholesale thinning, h would be, in our opinion, wise 

 to take out no trees, except such as are obviously d3nng, and a few scrubby 

 stunted trees which are injuring the others. Where, here and there, a single 

 specimen of more than usual beauty can be encouraged into noble growth, it 

 should be protected from overcrowding. But we attach great importance to 

 preserving the massive character of the B'orest, especially in this Wood. 



(13) Monk Wood. — This consists of fine old Pollarded Beeches, and, in oiu' 

 judgment, it needs no further thinning for many 3'ears to come. 



(14) High Beach. — The trees here are of considerable age and beauty, and we 

 do not think that they should be interfered with. 



(15) Wathamstow Wood. — The beautiful undergrowth of Holly is here a 

 distinctive feature. There are a few dead and dying trees which should be 

 removed, and here and there some Pollards, which threaten to injure the Hollies. 

 The healthy Oaks, even where crowded, should be left standing. The beauty of 

 tall oak stems, often lichen-covered, when growing in close woods, should be 

 considered. 



(16) Theydon High Wood. — Here are Beech trees of moderate age which have 



