19/09/2010
Anna Varle discovers the ancient art of horse logging, using heavy horses to clear woodland. Helping clear a site in Shropshire, she finds out how horses can do what machines can't.
Anna Varle discovers the ancient art of horse logging, using heavy horses to clear woodland. Helping clear a site in Shropshire, she finds out how horses can do what machines can't.
Horses are particularly useful when delicate environments need attention. Marton Pool in Shropshire is a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest, and 6 horses working together are needed to clear the area. Leading the team is Doug Joiner, chair of British Horse Loggers, who helps Anna take her first steps in learning a craft thought to be over 10,000 years old.
Horse Logging nearly died out in the 20th century, and by the 1980s there were only 3 full-time loggers in the UK. Now it's enjoying a renaissance, and the Forestry Commission, Natural England, and estates across the country are using teams of horses to tidy up their woodland.
Presenter: Anna Varle. Produced by Melvin Rickarby.
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- Sun 19 Sep 2010 06:35成人快手 Radio 4