Long Wood and Scarr Wood are two areas of publicly owned woodland. They measure 12 hectares and are set within the urban fringe of Halifax, between Copley and Skircoat.
Both woodlands form part of the typical escarpment oak woodland found in Calderdale. They have a rich floral diversity reminiscent of ancient woodland.
To recognise this fact, the woodlands are now designated as Local Nature Reserves (LNRs). There are footpaths that run through each woodland. Some of these are hard-standing with others being natural desire lines.
These woodlands are now in a Countryside Stewardship scheme run by the Countryside Service. This will involve a number of years of woodland management including:
- Identifying veteran trees.
- Selective felling to promote natural regeneration and to diversify the age of the woodlands.
- Control of invasive species such as balsam.
Scarr Wood includes the Local Geological Site (LGS) Woodhouse Scar. It is frequented by rock climbers from across the region offering a number of bouldering and climbing routes.
Community practical and improvement days are held often in the woodlands. These are to help with the management and engage with the local community.