Woodland Energy
The buzz word is “sustainability”, whether it be food production, heating resources, travel methods we are constantly reminded it is within our power to “save the planet”. Our individual carbon footprint is measured by our lifestyle and we can all have some impact on the world’s targets, however ambitious they may seem.
The logical place is to start at home and the way we heat our homes -oil, gas, timber, ground and air source heat pumps, solar panels-the options abound. Capital installation costs of sustainable options may seem onerous but the investment will have long term financial and practical implications if more natural resources are used.
Devon’s countryside abounds with woodland and those fortunate enough to own some can use their own resources for heating providing they manage the woodland effectively. Native woodland can be coppiced whilst cultivated woodland can be managed to provide a continuous supply of wood.
Trees themselves are the life source of the planet absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and locking it away in plants, root systems and soil. “a people without children would face a hapless future: a country without trees is almost as helpless” (attributed to Theodore Roosevelt). “it’s about cherishing the woodland at the bottom of your garden or the stream that runs through it. It affects every aspect of life” (attributed to Sir David Attenborough).
Mount Lodge, Bampton is a stone built family home with solar panels supporting the heating system and enjoys 15 acres of garden and woodland. Just 3 miles from the Exmoor National Park the attractive house comes with an annexe, barns, garaging and stunning country views. Strutt and Parker (01392 215631).
Besley House, Holcome Rogus is another appealing stone house, a barn conversion with 16 acres including 6 acres of native woodland. whilst enjoying a rural environment it is just 3.5 miles to Tiverton Parkway main line station giving access to London in 2.5 hours. For the self -sufficiency minded there are stocked fishponds alongside the productive vegetable garden and wild flower meadows. Humberts (01404 42456).
Maybe the dream is to own a small piece of woodland? Stags Totnes (01803 865454) are selling a 6 acre block on the banks of River Dart at Stoke Gabriel. The same agents are selling Woodside, Buckfastleigh. An intriguing timber house close to the upper reaches of the River Dart sitting in 1 acre of garden and woodland with stream. The accommodation suits multi -generational occupation and will appeal to the creative buyer.
So, what is better than sitting by the fireside on a cold winter’s evening watching the dancing flames giving light and life to any room - maybe add a glass of wine to embrace the mellow feel and security of home – “It’s all about coming home.”