November brought a clear shift into winter across the Biomass Connect sites, with widespread senescence observed in most crops. Storm events during the month (including Storm Claudia) caused localised wind damage, particularly to taller crops and previously weakened trees, though most sites reported minimal long-term impact. Pest pressures remained low overall, though hare and badger activity was noted at some hubs. Phenotyping of Miscanthus and woody crops continued at several sites, and preparations for winter maintenance and early spring actions are underway

Issue #11 of the Connect Newsletter is now available. The Connect Newsletters contain updates on project activities, details of the latest events, and news from across the wider biomass industry.

October marked a clear transition into autumn across the Biomass Connect sites, with widespread senescence observed in most crops. Storm events early in the month (notably Storm Amy and Benjamin) caused localised wind damage, particularly to taller crops and weaker trees, though most sites reported minimal long-term impact. Pest pressures were low overall, with only isolated aphid clusters and insect activity noted. Phenotyping of Miscanthus and woody crops was carried out at multiple sites, providing valuable data on growth and senescence patterns.

The Forestry Commission has published a comprehensive new guidance document entitled “Protecting trees from mammal damage: technical guidance” (30 October) aimed at supporting landowners, woodland managers and advisers who are establishing new tree plantations or agro-forestry systems.