Hello,

It is hard to tell from a photograph what exactly has caused your English ivy to die off.  It may have declined from past winter damage, or site condtions that were not ideal, or some type of fungal or bacterial disease. These diseases can be common in wet weather. If there was old debris, like accumulated leaves on the wooded site, this can also promote diseases. 

Ideally, English ivy is not the best choice for natural areas near woods or parks as it is a very invasive species and can have a negative affect on native habitat.

Here is a link for a fine article from the University of Illinois Extension that discuss several ground cover alternatives.  Of course, your selection would be dependent on your site and the amount of sun, shade and moisture the area receives.  You can also stop in to a local garden center for suggestions.  

https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2022-05-06-designing-ground-ground-covers-your-landscape

Another favorite of mine for semi-shady locations is sweet woodruff.  While not a native plant, it is quite hardy, spreads quickly and is not invasive. http://www.gardening.cornell.edu/homegardening/scenea6bc.html