CHAPTER 1 - Forests for the Community
January 2002 National Context 1. ‘Forests for the community’ 7 January 2002 CHAPTER 1 - Forests for the Community 1.1 To many people the word “forest” conjures up an Each Community Forest has a non-statutory plan, image of dense, closely grown trees stretching as approved by Government, which describes the proposals far as the eye can see. Eight-hundred years ago, in for developing that forest over the next 30 years and mediaeval times, it meant something quite different. guides its implementation. Then, the great forests of England were not only trees, but a magnificent mix of woods, heaths, 1.4 In each forest the Countryside Agency, the Forestry farmland, wetlands, ponds and streams. Here also Commission and 58 local authorities have were settlements - hamlets, villages and small towns appointed dedicated project teams to oversee - where people lived and worked. Today, the implementation. Many other national and local concept of Community Forests is breathing new life organisations from the public, private and voluntary into this ancient meaning of the word. This echo sectors have become involved and are now from our past is now set to become a signpost to a supporting the partnerships. All are valued better future. partners, critical to the success of the forests. 1.2 Community Forests cover large areas around the edges of towns and cities. They are not continuous Aim and Objectives plantings of trees but a rich mosaic of wooded landscapes and land uses including farmland, villages, 1.5 The aim of the national programme of Community leisure enterprises, nature areas and public open Forests is to achieve major environmental space.
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