From gravel pit to wildlife haven: Will Garfit’s small shoot story
Artist and author Will Garfit tells how his small shoot turned 69 acres of gravel workings into a haven for 148 bird species and over 460 plants.
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Find out how managing woodland effectively can deliver for shooting, while also bringing significant benefits for wildlife and biodiversity.
The film offers an insightful look into managing woodlands effectively, balancing the need of game shooting with herbivore management and conservation. It delves into the essential elements of a thriving woodland ecosystem, showing how sustainable management practices can enhance biodiversity and support a robust environment for wildlife.
Viewers are taken through four key areas where you can make a real difference to the health of your woodlands and the benefits these bring. These include creating open spaces, the role of deadwood, natural regeneration and reducing damage by herbivores (deer, grey squirrels and rabbits). This approach ensures healthier, more resilient woodland areas that can better support both game species and a rich variety of other wildlife.
By demonstrating these best practices, the film encourages landowners and shoot managers to get hands-on with woodland management.
You can contribute to the preservation and restoration of woodland habitats, whether through practical tasks or supporting policies that promote sustainable practices. The film is not just a guide, but an inspiring call to action for those who want to see woodlands thrive for future generations.
Artist and author Will Garfit tells how his small shoot turned 69 acres of gravel workings into a haven for 148 bird species and over 460 plants.

BASC’s Sam Walker joins the beaters at Ponsonby Farms in Gloucestershire to see a wild grey partridge recovery, built on shoot management, in action.
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