During spring 2010, replanting took place following 11 acres of Sitka clear fell, additional hardwood areas were created to the north. Compartment 7 of approx 40 acres is due to be thinned during the spring and summer of 2011. This will be producing about 2, 000 tonnes of useful pulp, posts and saw-logs. The timber will be extracted using the owned 1070 Timber Jack harvester and 840 Valmet Forwarder.

The existing planted hardwood areas are maturing well and attracting many birds. The sessile oak is particularly growing at pace.

Red squirrels have been sighted in the woodlands during 2010. This is a positive indicator in the progress of improvement for wildlife habitats of Britain’s endangered and indigenous species. It should be noted that as recent as 1982, this land was sheep country, windblown and exposed and offered no shelter for mammals or birds.

Otters have made their home in the outlet pipe from one of the ponds and the family is regularly seen.

A native tree in abundance at Southdean Woodlands is the Silver Birch. The Silver Birch is a graceful tree that stands out in winter with its white trunk and branches. Grows quickly when young and can reach 30m. Fairly short-lived species at about 70–100 years. Native throughout UK, preferring lighter soils and shallow peats. Common on dry heaths and open woodland. Pioneer species often first to colonise recently cleared areas. This is helped by its light seeds that are widely distributed by the wind.