The Group was formed in 1982 following a lecture given to the Society by Dr. Oliver Rackham. Its aim was to find, study and record remnants of ancient woodland in the Vale of York, and the area immediately around. By studying documentary evidence and maps and making field visit the Group built up a useful archive. Ancient Woodland flora is very distinctive and these woodlands also feature ditches, wood banks and coppicing. The Group consists of historians, archaeologists, botanists, landscape historians and all who enjoy being in and learning about the countryside and natural history.

The original brief of the Group has now been completed as far as is possible, although the Group will continue to monitor woodlands and investigate any woods which become accessible where previously they had not been.

For further information about the Group contact Barbara Hickman via the Society's office.