Summer letter from the Chairman – August 2008
Dear Woodlanders,
No, contrary to popular belief the Woodlanders have not gone into hibernation, even though this does sometimes seem an attractive idea when the summer rain and wind are doing their utmost to ruin the day. It is just that we have been very busy since the last flyer getting ready for and attending shows.
The reports from all the shows have been posted on this website; but I’d like to say that despite the economic gloom which appears everywhere at present, the Woodlanders on the whole seem to be bucking the trend. It seems that more people are requesting advice about either running groups or woodland management issues, and it is good that we can help other people.
Believe it or not, our thoughts are suddenly turning to the end of summer and the early autumn events and even woodland management tasks for the autumn and winter. As I write this on the hottest day of the year, it seems incredible but autumn will soon rush up on us. I believe when, like us, you are in contact with nature through the wood that you are much more aware of the seasons, even though they seem a little bit out of kilter in the past few years. It is the small changes here and there in the countryside that you notice, like how the sloes or hazelnuts are starting to form or the change in the variety of bird song. But I guess that this is what makes the British countryside such an enjoyable and interesting place to be and so worth protecting.
You will see that we have an article from a dear friend of the Woodlanders, Jane Schrouder, a past vice chair of the Woodlanders and wife of the late Ken (a previous chairman) who was instrumental in getting the group where it is
today I was fortunate to have met and worked with Jane. Her enthusiasm, energy and drive seemed limitless and you will see they still are. Jane was one of the first people I met from the Woodlanders and look where it ended up, next time I am in the woods in the pouring rain I will think about that.
I hope the newsletter either inspires you to come along and see the Woodlanders at some of the forthcoming shows or get involved at a show.
Hope to see you all soon,
By Chris Burchell Collins – Chairman
