Managing Small Woodlands in the Highlands and Islands

A guide for crofters, communities and small woodland owners Managing Small Woodlands in the Highlands and Islands

A guide for crofters, communities and small woodland owners In memory of Angus MacRae

As Angus did so often, I begin with a story. It dates from 1986 when, on behalf of the then newly-established Scottish Crofters Union (now the Scottish Crofting Federation), Angus and I attended in Edinburgh a session of what was then called the Hill Farm Review – a means of fixing levels of livestock support. Our being involved showed why the SCU mattered – crofters, though the review affected all of them, having never before participated in this forum.

We wanted, Angus and I, to register that the summer of ’86 had been a bad one. For months, we stressed, it had rained incessantly in the Highlands and Islands. Winter keep, we emphasised, was scarcely to be had. For weeks, we went on, it hadn’t been possible to find – from Unst to Islay – a beast with a dry back. The support regime, we insisted, had to reflect those facts.

When we rose to go, a Borders farmer – a NFU representative – came over. He looked Angus up and down – and Angus was a big, strong fellow, the very picture of vitality. ‘I’m sorry,’ the farmer said to Angus,‘but you don’t have the look of a man whose crofting’s doing poorly.’ Angus didn’t pause for breath.‘Crofters,’ he replied,‘are like sitka spruce. We grow better in the wet.’

Angus MacRae was born on his parents’ croft in North Strome in 1931 and – apart from his National Service – spent all his 71 years in that locality. For much of his working life, Angus – one of the sharpest, best-informed and most intelligent people I’ve ever met – combined his crofting (as his sitka spruce comment indicates) with a job with the Forestry Commission. When he and I travelled to the Hill Farm Review get- together in 1986, I was the SCU’s director – and Angus, already one of the union’s leaders, would shortly become its president. In that capacity, Angus masterminded the battle, and it was a battle, to bring about the legal and policy changes needed if crofters were to be permitted to grow trees for their own benefit on croft land – the previous position being that timber on croft land belonged in law to the land’s landlord and not to its crofting tenants. Under Angus’s leadership, the SCU won that campaign. The extent to which crofting forestry has flourished, and is still flourishing, shows the campaign was worth winning. It is most appropriate, therefore, that this publication is dedicated to the memory of Angus MacRae, champion of crofting and, above all, a very fine man.

Jim Hunter Acknowledgements Foreword Roland Stiven prepared the main text. Case studies were provided by Bill Ritchie, David Blair, Tim Clifford, Bob Black, James Mackenzie, Jon Hollingdale, Sandy Murray, Kenneth MacKenzie Hillcoat, Jenny Taylor and Steven Liddle. Bernard Planterose provided the section on As well as supplying traditional timber markets woodlands are now expected to deliver a construction using local timber and additional text was contributed by Jim McGillivray and range of other benefits including biodiversity, recreation, renewable energy and Donald Kennedy. Thanks are due to the many people who provided information and comment; sequestered carbon. At the same time the role of the state sector is reducing, and as part Cliff Beck, Becky Shaw, Donald Murdie, Bob Dunsmore, Steve Penny, Robert Patton, Malcolm of the burgeoning private sector small woodlands have a vital role in meeting society’s Wield, Jamie Dunsmore, Piers Voysey, Elaine Jamieson, Fiona Strachan, Richard Wallace, Lucy expectations. Sumsion, Jamie McIntyre, Jake Willis, Chris Marsh, and Duncan Ireland. The imperative to reduce carbon footprints and timber miles will lead both to increased This publication has been supported by Forestry Commission Scotland, Scottish Natural use of timber and increased opportunities for local added value and use, creating Heritage, The Western Isles Council, Highland Council, The Scottish Crofting Federation and markets at a scale appropriate to supply from smaller woodlands, particularly wood fuel, Highland Birchwoods. but also sawn timber, craft markets and secondary processing.

By their very nature small woodlands are diverse and this gives them the ability to enhance biodiversity and adapt to climate change. Connectivity between woodlands at a landscape scale is an important element of adaptation, and shelterbelts, policy woodlands, riparian woodlands, community woodlands and crofter forestry often have a key role in maintaining this connectivity.

In addition to their ecological and economic importance, because they are often locally owned, small woodlands are potentially valuable recreational, educational and social resources. This publication is not a step by step guide to establishing, managing and using these woodlands. But it is a clear and comprehensive overview of the available options, and the issues which need to be addressed if they are adopted. Most importantly, it gives clear guidance on where to find more detailed information, or technical expertise, when you need it.

We hope this makes it enjoyable and useful to everyone who cares about small woodlands and their contribution to meeting future social, environmental and economic needs.

Cliff Beck CEO Highland Birchwoods 6 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS How to use the handbook MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Contents 7

How to use the handbook Contents

The handbook is presented in a number of sections The shared experiences cover a range of situations Woodland Management 9 covering the creation of new woodland, managing and illustrate how various people have approached small woods, ways of realising the value, and also the management of small woods. Readers will Introduction 11 providing information on learning and support hopefully be able to relate to some parts of the case related to woodland management. studies. New Woodland 15 Creating new woodlands 15 Preparing the ground 16 Growing trees 17

Managing Small Woods 24 Planning ahead 24 Managing trees 26

Woods for wildlife 31

Woods for timber 38

Woods for grazing and shelter 43

Woods for people 46

Realising the Value 51 Woodland certification 51 Gathering a wild harvest 51 Woodfuel 51 Harvesting trees 52 Marketing wood products 53 Mobile sawmills 54 Building with local timber 55

Learning and Support 62 Training 64

Grant support for woodlands 67

Rules and regulations 68

Shared Experiences 72 Crofter forestry in Assynt 72 A smallholding by a Highland river 74 Restructuring Dunnet Forest 76 ‘The shared experiences cover a range of Making the most of an oakwood 78 Grazing woods in Argyll 81 situations and illustrate how various people have Woodland development by the North Harris Trust 82 Shelter in Shetland 83 approached the management of small woods.’ Laid 85 Forsinard 85 Orkney Woodland Group 86

Contacts 88 8 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woodland Management MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woodland management 9

Woodland Management

Background Community Development Forestry can contribute to helping improve “...Opportunities to deliver increasing benefits to the quality of life and well-being of people in people in Scotland” Scotland. Woodlands can provide a focus for (source: Scottish Forestry Strategy) people to work together on for community and small business enterprise, education and Our Scottish Forestry Strategy recognises that life long learning through the likes of Forest there are many mixed benefits from the range Schools. of woodland seen in the countryside. The important objective to remember when Access and Health considering woodland management or a new woodland project is to get the right trees in Woodlands can not only provide for access the right places for the right reasons. but can help to improve the physical and When managing an existing conifer mental health of Scottish people through plantation this may require an at least partial providing a variety of ways for people change of species to ensure that the to enjoy woodlands. Woodlands are a natural woodland better reflects the ecological therapeutic environment and can have characteristics of the site. positive effects on our well-being. The seven key themes of the Scottish Forestry Strategy: Environmental Quality Climate change Forests and woodlands can help protect Timber Scotland’s water, soil and air as well as Business Development contribute to Scotland’s diverse and attractive Community Development landscapes. They also help to protect Access and Health communities by contributing to control of Environmental Quality floods and soil erosion. Biodiversity Biodiversity Climate Change Scotland’s biodiversity is special and Climate change is one of the most serious woodland can help prevent further loss and threats the world faces today. Forestry can continue to reverse previous losses both contribute to climate change mitigation within woodlands and at the wider landscape because growing trees takes up CO2 and scale. Our native and especially ancient stores carbon. A further contribution is made woodlands have high biodiversity and historic if wood fuel is used in place of fossil fuels and value. There can be negative impacts from timber used to replace high energy building intense grazing by deer and sheep and from materials such as concrete and steel. invasive species such as Rhododendron. A number of key species such as Red Squirrel Timber and Capercaillie require special help if they Timber is an economic resource that is are to survive. There may be opportunities to environmentally friendly, versatile and cost re-introduce species that have become extinct effective. Local use can reduce haulage miles such as beaver and perhaps lynx. on our roads. The SFS is underpinned by the UK Forestry Business Development Standard and the various guidelines produced such as The Forest and Water Woodlands can contribute to achieving Guidelines. These publications set out the economically sustainable rural communities standards and best practice that land brining much needed economic activity to managers are expected to achieve. In fragile and remote areas. Woodlands form an addition there are the Environmental Impact important backdrop to the tourism industry (Forestry)(Scotland) Regulations 1999 that and for various opportunities within such as cover tree planting, tree felling, roads and camp sites and cycling facilities. quarries in the forest and Christmas trees. 10 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Introduction MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Introduction 11

Introduction

Woodlands enhance our countryside. They provide managing small woods in the Highlands and autumn colours and a place for walks, picnics and Islands of Scotland. It has been written with play sheltered from the wind and rain. Woodlands crofters in mind but is relevant to anyone with add amenity to our communities and value to our responsibility for small areas of woodland. It homes. They screen roads and reduce noise and assumes the reader has little or no experience of headlight glare. Trees protect our streamsides, woodland management. while providing food and shade for river life. Woodlands reduce runoff and erosion, contributing The handbook is supplemented by information on to land stabilisation and flood prevention. For the internet which holds a wealth of well-produced crofters, farmers and land managers, well-situated and up-to-date guidance on all aspects of forestry. woodland can help screen buildings, separate The online version of the handbook activities and provide shelter and seasonal grazing www.managehighlandwoods.org.uk links directly to for livestock. At the same time woods produce relevant information. If you do not use the timber, poles and firewood, cover for game, a internet, the Scottish Crofting Federation can send network of habitats for much of our wildlife and a you printed copies of the references. wild harvest from venison, mushrooms and brambles. Small woods in the Highlands and Islands In the past1, those who lived and worked on the The handbook concentrates on the former crofting land were dismayed when local woodland was lost, counties of Scotland which cover Highland, often to unmanaged grazing. With it went a source Western Isles, Orkney, Shetland and parts of Argyll of different timbers, each suited to particular uses, - stretching down to Dunoon and the Mull of as well as supplies of fuel, tan bark, plants, wildlife Kintyre in the south. Within this area there are and good grazing; the heath and bracken that took around 40,000 patches of woodland smaller than over as the woods disappeared was considered to be five hectares. Another 7,000 woods are less than far inferior grazing. thirty hectares in size.

Nowadays an increasing number of people are These small woods are in the hands of crofters, managing small woods and creating new woods to farmers, businesses, smallholders, public agencies benefit everyone. This handbook provides an and communities. Because they are small and often overview of what is involved in creating and

Many of the small woods are Woods of oak, elm and ash About twenty percent of the semi-natural. They include remain on the better soils in small woodland area is the oak, birch and ashwoods the sheltered valleys. Most conifer plantations of species of the uplands, willow, alder were cleared for farming such as Scots pine, Sitka and and birch that grow on the long ago, but some were Norway spruce, lodgepole wetter sites and the retained and have become pine and larch but also, on ‘Caledonian’ or native amenity woods, game occasion, firs and western pinewoods. Many are coverts and shelterbelts. On red cedar. Some were remnants of much wider the larger estates they were planted within semi-natural swathes of woodland; sometimes transformed into woods or old policy woods ‘Woodlands enhance fragments that have survived designed landscapes of leaving a mix of species. on the steeper slopes or parklands and policy woods, There are, of course, many wetter sites where there was often with the introduction larger plantations managed less burning and grazing. In of ornamental species. by Forestry Commission our countryside.’ recent years there has been a Scotland, private estates and concerted effort to conserve forest management and extend semi-natural companies. woods and to plant new native woodlands. 12 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Introduction MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Introduction 13

The Embo Trust

remote from markets, they tend to be less well the opportunity to buy or lease land managed by One of the first communities to investigate Houses would be built on each holding served by the mainstream forest industry. Few are Forestry Commission Scotland and to manage the the potential of forest crofts was the coastal making use of local skills and locally deliberately looked after, many are neglected and woodland for community benefit. Forest land can village of Embo in Sutherland. Jim harvested timber. The woodland crofts will be some are gradually being lost. also be acquired by registered social landlords for MacGillivray has been at the forefront of the made available to young people who are affordable housing. development of The Embo Trust and here he members of the Trust, have expressed an With a little attention paid to them, small woods describes what they are working to achieve. ambition to take up a croft tenancy, and are can contribute much more to our landscape, our Crofting law has changed too3, enabling new crofts prepared to undergo any necessary training. wildlife, our communities, and to the local economy. to be created and allowing wider uses of croft land. Embo came into existence as a Clearance Moreover, those who look after woodlands find it a Coupled with the National Forest Land Scheme, village in the middle of the 19th century, The agencies, including Forestry Commission housing those who had been driven from Scotland and the Crofters Commission, have fascinating and rewarding experience. this provides the basis for creating woodland crofts. their lands by Sutherland Estates. Livelihoods been encouraging and, following a series of were poor and when I was a boy, there were open meetings The Embo Trust has been Crofter Forestry and Woodland Woodland Crofts very few men in the 15-55 age group - nearly established to take the project forward. Crofts Throughout the 20th Century the area of forest in all were working away. Houses in the village sold for as little as £50. Not all small woods are in the hands of crofters but Scotland increased significantly, especially in the crofting is increasingly relevant to forestry in the Highlands. Many people from rural communities In recent years, there has been a major Highlands and Islands, particularly as more worked for ‘The Forestry’,planting hillsides and turnaround. There are now some twenty communities become involved in the ownership of harvesting trees, first by handsaw and horse, then independent businesses in the village and a crofted estates. by chainsaw and tractor. Nowadays, a smaller resident population of around 212. In the proportion of people are involved in forest summer, holiday makers increase the number Since 1992, crofters have been offered grant management. Woodland crofts are seen as one way of people dramatically and cottages sell for support to plant trees on common grazings, if they of increasing the link between rural livelihoods and £200,000 - “outsider money”. The young have the landowner’s permission, while retaining woodland management, rekindling a broader people, although in full-time employment, simply cannot afford them. ownership of the trees. Around fifty crofting woodland culture and, at the same time, townships have planted over 3000 hectares of new, contributing to the provision of affordable, Not far from the village, is the Forestry mostly native broadleaved, woodland. In addition sustainable housing. Commission plantation at Fourpenny. Much many individual crofters have protected and of the plantation was previously croftland - extended small areas of existing woodland. With a Woodland crofts can be created by an individual the old township of Cruibhan Mor. The idea decline in croft income and lower levels of grazing, landowner or where communities are able to has been to buy the plantation through the woodland provides an opportunity to diversify. purchase forest land, either from the national estate National Forest Land Scheme and establish a Most woods have been designed to deliver a mix of or from private landowners. Individual tenants can number of four hectare woodland crofts. benefits such as improvements to shelter, be allocated parcels of woodland but in larger conservation and recreation, while the new fences woodlands it is expected there will be a significant help to improve stock management. element of shared responsibility and that the whole forest would be managed cohesively to deliver References forest crofts and affordable housing. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcfc118.pdf/ With so many woodlands successfully established, community benefits. Both individual crofters and $FILE/fcfc118.pdf thoughts are now turning to how they can be community groups may be elgible for grant support 1. A History of the Native Woodlands of Scotland 1500 -1920 by T.C. Smout, Alan R Macdonald & 3. Crofting Reform etc. Act 2007. managed to best advantage. Woodfuel offers a for woodland management under the Scottish Fiona Watson, Edinburgh University Press, http://www.opsi.gov.uk/legislation/scotland/ possible new market while demand for social and Rural Development Programme. Where housing is 2005. educational activities in woodlands suggests the an element of woodland crofts, measures should be acts2007/asp_20070007_en_1 potential for greater community use. taken to ensure the needs of the community are 2. National Forest Land Scheme Guidance, met. House construction on woodland crofts Forestry Commission Scotland 2008. The crofter forestry experience has had wider should aim to make the maximum appropriate use This booklet describes the National Forest Land benefits. More than one township purchased their of timber and timber products, ideally using locally Scheme which provides the opportunity for communities to acquire forest land to manage croft land when landowners were not supportive of sourced timber, and woodfuel for heating. for public benefit and also to acquire land for woodland planting: achievements that contributed to the legislation for land reform. These days the National Forest Land Scheme2 gives communities 14 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS New Woodland MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS New Woodland 15

New Woodland

Creating new woodlands networks of woodland habitat6. Hardwood trees grown for high quality timber will be most suited to In Scotland where much of the original woodland richer, sheltered sites and easy access will make cover has been lost, woodland management often harvesting timber more feasible in the future. involves creating new areas of woodland. Whether Options will be more limited on steep, exposed and you are starting from scratch on open land, less fertile sites. In all cases new woodland should extending existing woodland or re-planting an area be designed to fit into the landscape taking account 7 that has been felled, the new woodland will be of the local landscape character and historic around for many years to come so consider carefully patterns of land use. Good guidance on locating what you are creating and why. and designing small woods has been produced by Forestry Commission Scotland8. Woods can provide shelter for stock, cover for game, as well as firewood, poles and timber. At the Selecting species same time woods can create privacy, a place to walk The appropriate tree species9 will depend on the and play, habitat for wildlife and protection for soils land available and on your objectives for the and rivers. All woodlands provide many benefits wood10. If you use locally native species, then but you will get most satisfaction from the wood if nature should be on your side. Native species it is designed to meet your needs and interests. include Scots pine, sessile oak, downy birch, silver Think about your priorities and take advice from birch, hazel, alder, crab apple, wych elm, aspen, ash, 4 5 professional foresters and woodland advisors . holly, hawthorn, rowan, gean, bird cherry, elder, juniper and willows - though not all will be suitable ‘When asked what motivated them to get involved in every locality. in crofter forestry, the crofters’ reasons ranged from the practical (‘reduced sheep numbers meant land The sustainability of new woodlands depends on was available’) and financial (‘to bring significant using tree species that match both the site11 and income into the township’) to environmental (‘to your objectives. Using appropriate native species create a large-scale habitat for wild animals, maybe which naturally occur locally will ensure even bears!’) and social (‘the idea of a community compatibility with the site. If longer term objectives woodland appealed’, ‘gifting a valuable asset to the include timber production and utilisation next generation of crofters’)’ commercial conifer species should be considered. Crofter Forestry in Assynt Of these only Scots Pine is native, but if managed appropriately Douglas fir, larch, and both Norway Other sections of the handbook consider in more and Sitka spruce, can produce timber with local detail the management of woodlands to deliver added value potential as a component of a mixed different benefits, this section provides an overview woodland. of what is involved in establishing new areas of woodland. Tree spacing

Choosing the site The spacing between planted trees influences their growth. Trees grown close together create a closed Where there is a choice of sites for woodland, many canopy more quickly, shading out weeds and lower ‘New Woodland should be factors can have a bearing on the selection. The branches. They usually grow straighter and with location may be critical in delivering particular fewer branches and knots, while the mutual benefits; shelterbelts for example need to be protection provided by the trees reduces the stress designed to fit into the landscape’ positioned with respect to the prevailing winds and on the tree trunk; all of which contribute to wildlife will make best use of new native woodland improved timber quality. Woods grown for shelter where it expands existing woods or develops linked or screening will tend to include dense planting, but 16 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS New Woodland MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS New Woodland 17

may also need more open areas where an under- birds. Where badgers are present, special gates can restocking semi-natural woodlands or expanding storey can develop. Wildlife habitats also benefit be installed that allow them access, and prevent native woodlands especially on ancient woodland from variety, with clumps of dense woodland and them from causing damage to the fence. Gates may sites23 24. The surrounding woods need to be able open areas with more ground flora and sunlit need to be installed to maintain public access. The to provide a seed-source of appropriate species. patches. provision for access will need to be considered Some preparation of the regeneration site may also carefully and the Scottish Outdoor Access Code be necessary; scarifying the vegetation by machine Public grants for planting trees require a minimum provides useful information. to expose the soil, or possibly using cattle or pigs to number of trees per hectare - usually between 1100 do a similar job. Grazing and browsing25 will need and 3100. Trees planted two metres apart give a Where voles pose a substantial threat, vole guards to be controlled and seedlings may require weeding density of 2500 trees per hectare. Closer spacing is and spiral guards may be required. Tree shelters to improve their chances of survival. Even so, this used where the site is particularly exposed. The need to be very well-fitted just below ground level establishment process can take continued effort over spacing can vary across the site, within limits, and to prevent voles getting to the trees. several years. Some work has been done to identify some of the area (10-25%) can remain unplanted. where natural regeneration is a realistic option26. Collecting seed and sowing it directly into the Growing Trees ground is not generally considered to be effective27 . Preparing the ground The alternative and most traditional approach is to Fences and protection Natural regeneration raise or buy seedlings for planting. A good planting site that is well-drained and free of Woodlands regenerate naturally, where conditions weeds will improve survival of the seedlings and Planted or naturally regenerating trees will need allow, and this is the preferred method for make planting and future weeding easier. This may protection from browsing and grazing until the be as straightforward as scraping vegetation from trees are well established and have outgrown the where you want to plant the tree, or turning a turf vulnerable stage. Livestock will need to be excluded with a spade12. Machines can help on all but the or very closely managed while deer, rabbits and 17 most sensitive sites and difficult terrain13.On free- voles may all require control . Vole populations draining upland soils, tractor-mounted scarifiers can fluctuate and in certain years can cause significant clear vegetation, leaving a patch for planting. On damage, stripping the bark of trees less than 2cm in 18 wetter sites, excavators are used14 to create diameter at ground level . If possible, it is a good individual upturned mounds, providing a drained idea to reduce deer and rabbit populations before and (initially) weed-free planting site. Agricultural planting and remove any that trespass within the tractors and ploughs can be used to cultivate15 in fences. bye or ex-arable land. There are now a number of rotary cultivators that provide better mixing of soils A combination of protection methods may be 19 20 which can be important on some sites. Traditional appropriate . Tree shelters can be used over covered drains may become blocked by tree roots small areas on less exposed sites, but if sheep are and need replaced by open drains. Where drains not excluded from the area, the shelters need to be are required, you should follow the advice in the very well-staked to prevent them from being pushed Forest and Water Guidelines16. over. Tree shelters are unlikely to provide sufficient protection from deer. Individual wooden enclosures On unimproved ground, the emphasis should be on may be more appropriate for widely-spaced trees in designing the woodland to suit the site, thereby an amenity, wood pasture or parkland setting. reducing the amount of ground preparation required. The deep ploughing, typical of the upland Fencing is normally cheaper for areas over one plantations of the 1970s and 80s, is not now hectare but a number of environmental factors have generally considered appropriate. Where wildlife to be considered. Fences should be designed to 21 conservation is a primary objective, drainage should minimise the impact on the landscape .Deer be avoided or kept to a minimum, since the soils fences need to be routed to allow the wider 22 contain wildlife too. movement of deer across the hills , and sited or constructed in such a way as to reduce collisions by 18 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS New Woodland MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS New Woodland 19

Donald and Maggie Kennedy have run an organic, native tree nursery in Morvern since 1986.

It is possible to collect seed from local trees, raise Each year we produce 50-80,000 plants - a Most plants end up on the west coast, where Sourcing seeds and seedlings them in your garden and plant them out30 31.Be mixture of species and sizes depending on they are best adapted to the environmental Native species planted primarily for wildlife prepared though; collecting seed and growing 2000- seed crops, weather and demand. Some conditions. conservation are expected to be grown from seed species, like juniper and aspen, we only grow 3000 seedlings for a hectare of mixed woodland collected close to where they will be planted. A in small numbers, but we usually manage Everything is supplied bare-rooted, between takes forward planning and considerable work. decent crops of downy birch, sessile oak, ash early December and late March. We usually system is in place to enable this and guidance is Another option is to contract a nursery to raise 28 and alder; with wych elm, wild cherry and know our stock availability for the available. Where trees such as pine, ash, birch, planting stock from seed you have collected. A few various willows in most years. Rowan, holly, forthcoming season by about the end of and the introduced conifers are being planted for species such as aspen and willow can be grown from hawthorn and blackthorn, hazel, bird cherry, August and it helps to have advanced notice timber, it is worth considering varieties that have cuttings32. elder and a few other fruity shrubs (even wild for larger orders. We have found the postal been bred or selected for improved timber roses and some gorse and broom) make up service as good as any carrier; very efficient properties29. the mix of understory species - or plants for and completely reliable. Occasionally we Planting Trees hedges and windbreaks. We have little deliver direct, when it makes sense. Seedlings can be supplied bare-rooted or grown in Planting a tree is relatively simple, but planting even demand for Scots pine, but there’s no better 34 containers with a small plug of earth. In exposed a small area of new woodland is hard work, work than roping-up into the crowns of the For both of us, the nursery is part-time. I’m particularly on upland sites35. Most small-scale and granny pines above Loch Sheil on crisp spring also a dry stone waller and general woodland sites, smaller trees tend to survive better and upland areas will be planted by hand36. Planting days - gathering cones and renewed contractor. Maggie works as a carer in the container grown trees of 15 cm, or even smaller, are inspiration. community... and, frankly, does most of the often used. On more fertile, sheltered sites, larger machines are only suited to larger-scale, single- caring for the trees. She’s now both the boss trees up to 60cm can be planted. In either case it is species planting on previously cultivated land. We like to keep bureaucracy simple. All our and the main worker in the nursery. It is a lot important to plant healthy, well-proportioned trees plants are from our local area (provenance of work. I don’t know how she does it. with a strong root system. There are a number of Prepare a planting plan showing spacing and species Zone 10537 ) although we’re not averse to tree nurseries within Scotland ranging from large mixtures and identifying areas of open space. making special collections if customers want. Donald Kennedy, Organic Trees centralised growers to small remote nurseries. With Planting native trees on a variable site will require the smaller nurseries, in particular, you may need to an understanding of the particular site requirements place an order a couple of years in advance. of the different species. 20 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS New Woodland MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS New Woodland 21

Seedlings should be handled gently and stored in a of loose bark or woodchips, or mats of various 6. Forest Habitat Networks Forest Research http://www.cnesiar.gov.uk/woodlands/ sheltered, shaded place for as short a time as materials. Aim to maintain a weed-free circle of http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/habitat- documents/woodlandsEnglish.pdf networks possible before planting. Some species such as one metre diameter around each tree. As the canopy Habitat Networks for Wildlife and People 13. Forest Ground Preparation Forest Research birch and larch37 are particularly sensitive to rough closes, the trees start to shade out the weeds and Scottish Natural Heritage and Forestry Information Note Odw 10.01. treatment. Keep container-grown seedlings38 well- the closer the trees are planted, the quicker this Commission Scotland 2003. This leaflet outlines the suitability of various This publication is not available online but can machines for ground preparation in different watered and bare-rooted stock covered up. Avoid stage is reached. be ordered through the Forestry Commission situations. allowing the roots to dry out39 as it is the fine website, http://www.forestry.gov.uk http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/ delicate roots that keep the plant alive in its early It is not unusual for a small proportion of planted ODW1001.pdf/$FILE/ODW1001.pdf 40 7. Landscape Character Assessments days after planting. Plant the seedlings carefully trees to die and these should be replaced the next Scottish Natural Heritage. 14. Excavator Mound Spacing on Restocking Sites. ensuring the roots are spread out and that bare- year. Tree shelters and fences require regular A series of landscape character assessments has Forest Research Technical Note 2004. rooted seedlings are planted to the depth of the monitoring and maintenance. been produced covering much of Scotland. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/ These describe the dominant land FCTN008.pdf/$FILE/FCTN008.pdf root collar - as they were in the nursery. Poorly characteristics in a locality and discuss the planted trees will often fail and need to be replanted appropriateness of landscape changes. 15. Site Preparation for New Farm Woodlands. the next year. http://www.snh.org.uk/pubs/results.asp? Scottish Agricultural College Technical Note References Q=landscape+character+assessment&rpp=10 590. This note concentrates on site preparation A small application of rock phosphate can help Creating new woods 8. The Creation of Small Woodlands on Farms for planting on better quality land – previously stimulate root growth and activity, but may not Forestry Commission Scotland 2006. arable or improved pasture. This very useful book describes in simple terms http://www.sac.ac.uk/mainrep/pdfs/ always be necessary on very fertile sites or on 4. The Institute of Chartered Foresters has a list of professional foresters. the benefits of small woods and provides tn590sitefarmwoods.pdf restocking sites. On infertile sites low levels of http://www.charteredforesters.org/ advice on location and design. phosphate and potassium can limit growth. Small http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/Text.pdf/ 16. Forest and Water Guidelines 4th Edition $FILE/Text.pdf Forestry Commission 2003. application of slow release fertiliser can overcome 5. The Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) is a charitable farmer-led organisation This book gives guidance to forest managers this. Nitrogen can cause unsustainable growth rates and Scotland’s leading independent provider Selecting species on how forests should be designed and and should be avoided on establishment and of environmental and conservation advice to operations planned, and to practitioners on 9. The Ecological Site Classification Decision how field operations should be carried out in restocking sites except in extreme conditions. farmers and crofters. Members pay a small membership fee and thereafter for particular Support System Forest Research. order to protect and enhance the water services. Initial scoping of opportunities is This is a PC-based system helps guide forest environment. Weeding and maintenance generally free. managers and planners to select species that http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcgl002.pdf/ http://www.fwag.org.uk/scotland/. are ecologically suited to sites. $FILE/fcgl002.pdf http://www.forestry.gov.uk/esc Planted trees need to be looked-after for a few years The Scottish Agricultural College Fencing and protection to ensure that they become established and grow http://www.sac.ac.uk/ and 10. The Site Requirements and Uses of Selected Tree out of reach of browsing animals. Weed control is Scottish Native Woods and Shrub Species Bernard Planterose and the 17. The Prevention of Mammal Damage to Trees in critical, especially on more fertile soils41. On http://www.scottishnativewoods.org.uk/ Scottish Crofters Union Woodland Forestry Commission Practice Note both provide management advice on upland sites, a well-prepared planting site will help This table has been extracted from Appendix 4 1998. This note is designed to help woodland woodlands. Local staff may provide some initial of the Crofting Forestry Handbook 1993 managers to diagnose mammal damage, to to keep weeds to a minimum in the early years. scoping of opportunities without charge. http://www.crofting.org/index.php/ evaluate its severity, to consider management North Highland Forest Trust publications/66 options and to determine the appropriate http://www.nhft.org.uk/index.htm provides a Grasses, in particular, compete vigorously for action to take. similar service to community groups and 11. Creating New Native Woodlands http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pdf/ nutrients and moisture. Mowing or strimming smallholders in the area north of Inverness. Forestry Commission Bulletin 112 1994. fcpn3.pdf/$FILE/fcpn3.pdf around the trees will simply make the grass grow NHFT services are free though they will recover This book describes the selection of the costs if subsequent grant applications are faster and enable it to compete better. Bracken and appropriate type of new native woodland for 18. Protecting Young Woodlands from Vole Damage successful. any particular site and gives guidance on the Scottish Agricultural College Technical Note other tall weeds can smother young trees and make Forestry Commission Scotland staff species composition, design and silvicultural 566. it difficult to find and tend them. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/HCOU- methods to promote overall development of http://www.sac.ac.uk/mainrep/pdfs/ 4U4J23 help administer the grant systems the woodland ecosystem. This publication is tn566woodlandsvoledamage.pdf available for forestry and can explain the not available online but can be ordered Herbicides are sometimes used on larger areas of priorities for different types of woodland in through the Forestry Commission website. 19. Fences and Protection Scottish Agricultural planting, and may be an effective method of weed your area and relevant sources of information. http://www.forestry.gov.uk College Technical Note 591 2007. A practical guide to establishing farm control when planting improved grassland sites or Scottish Natural Heritage Preparing the ground woodlands, concentrating on protecting newly http://www.snh.org.uk/about/ab-hq.asp areas of dense bracken. The use of herbicides planted farm woods from rabbits, deer and should be consulted regarding management of 42 12. Woodland Establishment and Maintenance in farm stock. should be kept to a minimum . Alternatives, woodland within Sites of Special Scientific the Western Isles. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, http://www.sac.ac.uk/mainrep/pdfs/ which are practical on a small scale, include mulches Interest. Woodland Information Note. tn591woodlandsfences.pdf 22 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS New Woodland MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS New Woodland 23

20. Tree Planting and Aftercare – a practical Seeds and seedlings Planting trees 40. Tree Planting and Aftercare – a practical handbook BTCV. handbook BTCV. The section on tree protection provides advice 28. Seed Sources for Planting Native Trees and Shrubs 33. Seed Sources for Planting Native Trees and Shrubs The section on planting methods provides on damage to trees and detail on tree guards in Scotland Forestry Commission Scotland in Scotland Forestry Commission Scotland advice on the following types of planting: and shelters. Guidance Note 2006. Guidance Note 2006. Notch planting of bare-root plants, planting http://handbooks.btcv.org.uk/handbooks/ This guidance note sets out Forestry This guidance note sets out Forestry cell-grown plants, pit planting of bare-root content/section/3580 Commission Scotland policy for selecting Commission Scotland policy for selecting plants, planting container-grown plants , direct suitable origins, provenances and categories of suitable origins, provenances and categories of planting of cuttings and sets 21. Forest Fencing planting material for planting native species of planting material for planting native species of http://handbooks.btcv.org.uk/handbooks/ Forest Research Technical Guide 2006. trees and shrubs in Scotland. trees and shrubs in Scotland. content/section/3579 This comprehensive booklet provides details on http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/seedsourcefcfc http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/seedsourcefcfc the best materials, techniques and practice for 151.pdf/$FILE/seedsourcefcfc151.pdf 151.pdf/$FILE/seedsourcefcfc151.pdf Weed control and maintenance forest fencing. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fctg002.pdf/ 29. Choosing Provenance in Broadleaved Trees 34. New Planting of Farm Woodlands: Output 41. Maintenance of Young Farm Woodlands $FILE/fctg002.pdf Forestry Commission Information Note 2006. Guidance Forest Research Technical Note 4/98. Scottish Agricultural College Technical Note This Information Note reviews evidence from This note provides some practical assessment 593. 22. Best Practice Guide on Planning Deer Fences trials and provides recommendations and of planting methods and realistic rates of This provides details on herbicides for weed Deer Commission Scotland. advice to growers seeking to select the best planting. control and maintenance of tree shelters. http://www.bestpracticeguides.org.uk/ broadleaved provenances for British http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ http://www.sac.ac.uk/mainrep/pdfs/tn593 crop_fencing.aspx conditions. userfiles/file/publications/Forest%20Research youngfarmwoodlands.pdf http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcin082.pdf/ %20Reports/TN0498%20New%20Planting.pdf Natural Regeneration $FILE/fcin082.pdf 42. Reducing Pesticide Use in Forestry 35. Woodland Regeneration in the Far North: The Forestry Commission Practice Guide 2004. Selecting the Right Provenance of Oak for Planting 23. Restoration of Native Woodland on Ancient challenges of growing trees in a marginal http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcpg015.pdf/ in Britain Forestry Commission Information Woodland Sites Forestry Commission Practice Highland environment North Highland Forest $FILE/fcpg015.pdf Note 2005. Guide 2003. This book is about how to restore Trust Annual Forum 2006. This Information Note summarises the data and expand remnants of ancient woodland to This describes some examples of small scale from two series of oak provenance trials conserve their ecological value. planting in Highlands. established in Great Britain in 1990 and 1992 http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg014.pdf/ http://www.nhft.org.uk/documents/Forum and provides recommendations for provenance $FILE/fcpg014.pdf %20Report%202006.pdf selection. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcin082.pdf/ 24. The Conservation and Restoration of Plantations 36. Tree Planting Forest Research Information Note $FILE/fcin082.pdf on Ancient Woodland Sites; a guide for woodland Odw 10:02. owners and managers Woodland Trust 2005. This note provides a simple guide to hand 30. Raising Trees and Shrubs from Seed Forestry This booklet describes management planting trees. Commission Practice Guide 2007. approaches to maintaining and enhancing http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/ This is aimed principally at people interested in remnant features of ancient woodlands. ODW1002.pdf/$FILE/ODW1002.pdf http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/ raising small numbers of trees to plant in the garden. It describes some of the basic SiteCollectionDocuments/pdf/policy-and- 37. An Update on Nursery Propagation and properties of tree seeds, principles of seed campaigns/woodland-restoration/paws-guide- Establishment Best Practice for Larch in Britain handling, and explains how to avoid or 09.pdf Forestry Commission Information Note 2006. overcome common problems. It covers This summarises the results of a series of approximately 120 woody species which are 25. Natural Regeneration in Broadleaved experiments, including a synthesis of data from either native to, or commonly grown in, the Wooodlands: Deer Browsing and the previous Forest Research publications. The British Isles. Establishment of Advance Regeneration Forestry optimum time for handling, cold storage and http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg018.pdf/ Commission Information Note 35 2000. planting is described. $FILE/fcpg018.pdf http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcin35.pdf/ http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcin080.pdf/ $FILE/fcin35.pdf $FILE/fcin080.pdf 31. Native Woodlands in The Western Isles: A guide to their restoration Western Isles Council, 26. Predicting Site Suitability for Natural Colonisation: 38. Advice on Container Grown Seedlings Alba Trees. Comhairle nan Eilean Siar. Upland Birchwoods and Native Pinewoods in This website includes advice from a nursery on This booklet describes the tree species native Northern Scotland Forest Research Information handling and planting container grown to the Western Isles, the site conditions that Note 2004. seedlings suit them and how they can be grown from This note describes situations where natural http://www.albatrees.co.uk/downloads/alba_ cuttings or seeds. colonisation may be a possible means to trees_handbook.pdf?view=674 establish new areas of native woodland. http://www.cnesiar.gov.uk/woodlands/ documents/NativeWoodlandBooklet.pdf http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pdf/ 39. Plants & Planting Methods Scottish Agricultural fcin054.pdf/$FILE/fcin054.pdf College Technical Note 592. This provides information on selecting 32. Advice on Rooting Cuttings of Aspen. 27. The Potential for Direct Seeding of Birch on seedlings and planting trees on farm land. http://www.treesforlife.org.uk/ Restock Sites Forestry Commission Information http://www.sac.ac.uk/mainrep/pdfs/tn592 tfl.aspen_propagation.html Note 2007. plantingmethods.pdf http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/FCIN084.pdf/ $FILE/FCIN084.pdf 24 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Managing Small Woodlands MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Managing Small Woodlands 25

Managing Small Woodlands

Left to themselves, woods will grow and develop as best they can. Management is the process of helping A simple management plan will the woodland to deliver more of what we want. include the following: Sections of this handbook provide information about managing woodlands for various benefits. Woodland Description The name, location and area of the wood Planning ahead The existing woodland type (e.g. birchwood, ancient oakwood, spruce It is worthwhile making some effort to learn about plantation) and the tree species present. your woodland; its history43; the species in it and The structure of the wood - the range of how it has been managed in the past44.Spend sizes and ages of the trees and the time in it; find out who and what uses it; observe it extent of regeneration of young trees. through the seasons and look at other woodlands in Constraints that restrict what can be the locality to compare composition and influences done with the wood, such as difficult of previous management. access, steep slopes, sensitive wildlife or habitats, water courses and water ‘One of our first steps was to carry out a full supplies, wayleaves for power lines, inventory of the wildlife, with maps showing the rights of way or conflicting uses of the locations of particular species’ site, landscape considerations, A smallholding by a Highland river scheduled monuments or areas of land that are designated for conservation. Local staff of some public agencies and Non Opportunities to develop particular aspects of the wood such as timber, Governmental Organisations may provide a degree public access, shelter, amenity, wildlife of free, informal advice to point you in the right or riparian protection. direction45. A professional forester46 will give you Threats such as overgrazing, flytipping a considered overview of the realistic opportunities. of rubbish or windthrown trees. 47 A formal survey of the wood may be appropriate Maps showing the site, the woodland to determine its commercial, ecological and other types and constraints values. Management aims and objectives It is a good idea to talk to non-professionals as well; Describe the benefits you would like to neighbours with opinions about the wood, locals enhance and how you would like to see who shoot the rabbits and deer, the dog walkers, the the wood develop. mushroom collectors and the local children who Work Programme - show how you are enjoy the rope swing over the stream. Most of all, going to make the most of the consider your own interests. How much of your opportunities and reduce the threats, ‘It is worthwhile making some effort time, effort and money are you prepared to commit, set within a 5 year plan of operations and in what respects? Maps that show where different work will take place. to learn about your woodland; its A management plan describes the woodland, considers the options and opportunities available history; the species in it and how it and relates these to your interests. It sets out what will need to prepare a management plan in an you want to achieve and how you intend to do it48. acceptable format49, having discussed this with A management plan for a small wood need not be your adviser or local Forestry Commission Scotland has been managed in the past. complicated; at its simplest it may be no more than office50. There are likely to be certain conditions a page or two. If you are applying for a grant you that need to be met for grant support. 26 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Managing Small Woodlands MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Managing Small Woodlands 27

Trees take many years to grow, making it necessary Managing woods blown over or snapped in the wind. Clearing areas tree species lend themselves better to this for a management plan to look well into the future. of windthrown trees is dangerous and expensive approach than others. Alternatively larger areas Markets and priorities will change however, so it is work. Silviculture is the art and science of growing trees are cleared, leaving a few ‘seed trees’ to repopulate sensible to keep options open. A long-term vision in forests. In the past, trees were used for a myriad the site. The approach taken will depend on needs to be supported by a more practical Many of the large plantation woodlands we see of everyday items and management systems were whether the future generation of trees is ‘light management plan covering the next five years or so. today were planted to offset timber shortage developed to produce particular products and to demanding’ or ‘shade tolerant’. The costs of following the two world wars. These are often ensure that woods regenerated after harvesting. harvesting may be higher under a continuous Management may involve making changes to the conifers planted in a uniform pattern and managed These traditional systems still form the basis of our cover system but on the other hand income from woodland itself: altering its size and structure, on a 40 - 60 year rotation before being clear felled approaches to woodland management, although sales will be more regular. If natural regeneration encouraging diverse regeneration or adjusting the and replanted. The process of forest planning both they are always being refined and developed to suit is successful some of the costs of replanting mix of tree species and other plants to produce in private woodlands and in the National Forest new products and uses of woodland. should be avoided. harvestable material. Habitats can be encouraged Estate is ensuring that restructuring is taking place for particular species, grazing managed, views to increase diversity, create areas of varied age and Broadleaved trees can be coppiced53; cut back to a For woodlands that are particularly valuable for opened-up and shelter for livestock or game species, manage some areas for continuous low stump from which multiple stems will grow wildlife, a minimum management approach is improved. Management might also involve woodland cover and retain some areas of old again quickly, if protected from browsing. For a often taken. Threats to the wood are dealt with, improving access: creating roads or tracks for growth as long as possible. period in the 18th and 19th centuries, oak was such as preventing excessive grazing or removing harvesting, or constructing paths and shelters for coppiced on an industrial scale; the stems were rhododendron that is displacing native species, public use. In more sheltered areas, woods can be managed harvested every twenty years or so for the bark, and steps are taken to ensure regeneration. Once under a continuous cover system57. Individual trees which was used for tanning, and to make charcoal such things are under control, nature is allowed to Deciding what you want to achieve and how to go or small groups of trees are harvested carefully in for iron smelting. Many other broadleaved species take its course. For inaccessible woods growing about it may seem complicated. A professional areas where an under-storey of young trees is ready including ash, alder and hazel, can also be coppiced on steep slopes, river gorges or wetlands, forester can help you to set out some simple, clear, to take their place and where seed from to produce poles and firewood. In the past, trees in minimum management may be the only sensible short-term objectives. You will need to describe surrounding trees can be blown into the gap. Some open pasture were sometimes pollarded, cut back to option. In other situations, even though a wood clearly what you expect to see happen. In a few high stumps which could regenerate out of the years you can look back and judge whether your reach of grazing animals. management is working or if it needs to be adjusted. Trees for sawn timber54 are best raised from seedlings, grown close together. As the trees grow, Making changes to a landscape, by planting trees, smaller or mis-shapen trees are thinned out55 to harvesting trees or building paths and tracks can allow better trees to grow on with less competition. attract public concern, often related to the visual This is done on a regular pattern perhaps once impact. Native woodlands designed on ecological every five years, starting when the trees are 15-25 grounds will tend to suit the landscape but there years old. Different species might require different may still be particular features of a site that need to styles of thinning; ash and larch for example need be considered. 51 Provided changes take account of more space for each tree and need thinned before the local landscape character52 and the available their crowns get too congested. As the trees mature guidance on landscape, woodland improvement and thinning progresses more light reaches the should enhance the landscape in the long term. forest floor and ground vegetation and seedlings Nevertheless, it is a good idea to inform local become established. Thinning may not be people about proposed works in advance and to recommended for all sites exposed to frequent explain the changes being made. strong winds because of the risk of windthrow. Stands of trees growing in windy environments develop wind-firm edges of robust, well-rooted trees. Thinning or harvesting can expose trees in the centre of the stand to levels of wind they are not used to and this increases the risk of trees being 28 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Managing Small Woodlands MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Managing Small Woodlands 29

may be valuable for wildlife it may still be possible References (condition) of native woods. 54. Growing Broadleaves for Timber Forestry to manage it sensitively 58 for timber and other http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/NatWoodCond Commission Management Handbook No 9 59 60 Planning ahead Surv.pdf/$FILE/NatWoodCondSurv.pdf 1993. benefits . This handbook is not available online but can 43. 1st Edition of the Ordnance Survey maps 48. This website has a template for a management be ordered through the Forestry Commission Small woods are often used for sheltering and These show woods around c1850 and are an plan designed for English woodlands but is website. www.forestry.gov.uk relevant nonetheless. grazing livestock. There has always been a balance excellent starting point. http://www.nls.uk/maps/early/os_scotland_ http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd- 55. Thinning In Atlantic Oakwoods; assessing options to be struck between allowing grazing and enabling oneinch_1st_list.html. 6dccn3 at the stand scale Highland Birchwoods 2005 periodic regeneration of the trees. At a certain level, http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ 49. Management Plans For Semi-Natural Woodlands UserFiles/File/publications/CoreReports/ seasonal grazing (particularly by cattle) actually 44. National Archives of Scotland Any historical records will likely be online here: Under WGS Forestry Commission National AtlanticWoodlandsLR.pdf helps woodland regeneration, scarifying the ground Search using the name of the wood - but you Office for Scotland, Guidance Note No 12. and creating pockets for seed germination. will have to go to Edinburgh to see actual This sets out a template and an example of a 56. Forestry Practice Forestry Commission management plan for semi-natural woodland. Management Handbook 6. However, constant high levels of stock will degrade documents. http://www.nas.gov.uk/catalogues/default.asp. It is in the format required for a previous grant This handbook is the main text on plantation and eventually decimate woodlands. The art of scheme and may be superseded in due course. management. It is not available online but can managing grazing in woodlands to benefit the trees, 45. The Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/guidancenote be ordered through the Forestry Commission 12.pdf/$FILE/guidancenote12.pdf website. www.forestry.gov.uk wildlife and livestock, is gradually being re- (FWAG) is a charitable farmer-led organisation 61 and Scotland’s leading independent provider learned . of environmental and conservation advice to 50. Forestry Commission Scotland offices 57. What is Continuous Cover Forestry? Forestry farmers and crofters. Members pay a small The website provides contact details. Commission Information Note 1999 www.forestry.gov.uk http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcin29.pdf/ Deer are a natural feature of woodlands. Red and membership fee and thereafter for particular services. Initial scoping of opportunities is $FILE/fcin29.pdf roe deer are native to Scotland and a valued part of generally free. 51. Forest Design Planning: A Guide to Good Practice our wildlife. There are also two species of http://www.fwag.org.uk/scotland/ Forestry Practice Guide 1998. 58. The Sunart Oakwoods: A Guide To Their This guide is primarily about managing larger Sustainable Management Highland Birchwoods The Scottish Agricultural College introduced deer: Sika, which are present plantations, changing their structure and 2005 http://www.sac.ac.uk/ and throughout the mainland, and fallow deer, which design over time so they fit better within the http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ occur in certain areas within the Highlands and Scottish Native Woods landscape. The ideas and practical approaches UserFiles/File/publications/CoreReports/ http://www.scottishnativewoods.org.uk/ suggested are also relevant to smaller SunartOakwoods.pdf Argyll. Lacking any natural predators, deer both provide management advice on plantations. populations can reach a level where they cause woodlands. Local staff may provide some initial http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fdp.pdf/ 59. Managing the Pinewoods of Scotland Forestry damage to the economic or habitat value of scoping of opportunities without charge. $FILE/fdp.pdf Commission Management Handbook 2004. North Highland Forest Trust This handbook is not available online but can woodlands and require control. At the same time, Landscape Design And Presentation For Small http://www.nhft.org.uk/index.htm provides a Woodlands Forestry Commission Guidance be ordered through the Forestry Commission people enjoy seeing deer; and venison sales can similar service to community groups and Note No 23 2003 website. www.forestry.gov.uk provide a source of income to woodland owners. smallholders in the area north of Inverness. The intention of this guidance note is to give NHFT services are free though they will recover practical advice on the design and 60. The Birch Woodland Management Handbook costs if subsequent grant applications are presentation of small woodland proposals Highland Birchwoods 1999. Deer range over large areas and therefore it makes successful. submitted to the Forestry Commission. It looks This provides detail on managing birch sense to work with neighbouring landowners to Forestry Commission Scotland staff at the level of written and visual information woodland for various benefits including http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/HCOU- which Forestry Commission staff would like to timber, wild harvests, stock and game, fisheries agree a common approach to their management. and conservation. 62 4U4J23 help administer the grant systems see to help them evaluate the possible visual Deer management groups already exist over available for forestry and can explain the and environmental impacts of the proposals. http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ much of highland Scotland. SNH’s Deer Panel priorities for different types of woodland in http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/guidancenote UserFiles/File/publications/Birchhand/ Birchhandbook.pdf arranges training courses and publishes best your area and relevant sources of information. 23.pdf/$FILE/guidancenote23.pdf 63 Scottish Natural Heritage practice guides on subjects such as fence and crop 52. Scottish Natural Heritage has produced a series 61. The Woodland Grazing Toolkit http://www.snh.org.uk/about/ab-hq.asp This describes how to plan for managed protection, assessing the impacts of deer on should be consulted regarding management of of landscape character assessments covering much of Scotland. These describe the grazing in woodlands. woodland, and planning forests in relation to deer. woodland within Sites of Special Scientific http://www.argyllbute.gov.uk/biodiversity/ Interest. dominant land characteristics in a locality and discuss the appropriateness of landscape Biodiversity%20in%20Argyll_files/Grazing changes. %20Plan%20Toolkit%20ver%20June%202006 46. The Institute of Chartered Foresters has a list of %20(low).pdf professional foresters. http://www.snh.gov.uk/protecting-scotlands- nature/looking-after-landscapes/lca/ http://www.charteredforesters.org/ 62. Association of Deer Management Groups 53. The Silviculture and Management of Coppice http://www.deermanagement.co.uk/ 47. Native Woodland Condition Surveys Forestry dmg1.php Commission Scotland Guidance Note No 7 Woodlands Forestry Commission Management 1996. Handbook. This publication is not available online but can be ordered through the Forestry 63. Best Practice Guides SNH’s Deer Panel This guidance note explains the formal survey http://www.bestpracticeguides.org.uk/ process used for surveying the ecological value Commission website. www.forestry.gov.uk 30 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Wildlife MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Wildlife 31

Woods for Wildlife

Scotland was much more extensively wooded in the habitat for our wildlife65. Birds, mammals, insects, past with woodland cover as high as 60%. Much of amphibians, plants, lichens, fungi, rare butterflies66, our wildlife - plants and animals - tend to be snakes, spiders and ants67, all depend on them68. derived from woodland ecosystems. Only 1% of A few of the larger semi-natural woods are our original forest remains and these ancient semi- protected69 as Sites of Special Scientific Interest or natural woodlands provide a last refuge for less Special Areas of Conservation. adaptable species. Native woodlands and plantations of introduced species offer suitable The priority for managing semi-natural woodlands wildlife habitat, especially where they are part of a is to improve their diversity. Usually this involves wider habitat network. Linking woods through encouraging natural regeneration or limited glens, along rivers or around lochs is important. planting to bring back the range of native species Enlarging native woodland to suitable sites and and develop a more natural structure70. Particular diversifying plantations allows for the plants and types of semi-natural woodland can be animals that live in them to thrive. At some point distinguished and a series of Forest Practice Guides the reintroduction of species that were once part of provide management guidance for each type. these woodlands may be considered. Across much of the Highlands and Islands, it is Semi-natural woods birchwoods75 that dominate. In the less sheltered More than two-thirds of small woods in the parts of the west and north, downy birch grows Highlands and Islands are semi-natural remnants of with rowan, willows and hazel in low-canopied, our native woodlands. All would have been used in scrubby woodlands. In the east and central the past for wood products, grazing and shelter. highlands the more elegant silver birch forms Most have suffered in recent centuries from heavy almost pure stands, gradually becoming part of the grazing so that the diversity of tree species has been native pinewood communities. Birch trees are much reduced. Despite this, they still provide a vital common to all our native woods. As a pioneer tree, it is usually the first tree to regenerate when grazing

‘Much of our wildlife - plants and animals - tend to be derived from woodland ecosystems’ 32 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Wildlife MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Wildlife 33

is reduced and one of the last to disappear if the the process the wildlife populations they support wood is harvested or over-grazed. It can survive also diminish82. The wider strategy for woodland exposure and will grow further up the hills than oak conservation is to expand the semi-natural woods and ash. and in the longer term to begin to link them into networks of habitat83, creating bigger, more robust Where it gets wetter on the edges of bogs and areas of woodland and other open habitats. In the mires, wet woodlands76 of birch, alder and willow longer term such networks may also help some grow with a ground flora of sphagnum moss and species to move in response to a changing climate. purple moor grass and occasional patches of yellow flag irises. Alder is common in strips along the ‘Four near-contiguous schemes form a substantial highland rivers and in a few areas it still forms area of new native woods of around 500 hectares, dense woods of multi-stemmed trees - the ‘black and many of the new plantings connect up fragments woods’, coppiced in the past for fuel wood. of remnant woods, so the ecological benefits will be significant’ The remnant native pinewoods77 have been a focus Crofter Forestry in Assynt for conservation since the 1950s. The larger pinewoods are found around the Cairngorms and in Riparian woods84 can play a key part in developing Glen Affric, although smaller patches extend south woodland networks. Woods of alder, willow, birch, and westwards. Most are already under careful ash, and hazel grow on the banks of burns, rivers management. In the 1990s, many new native and lochs. They are often the last refuge for native pinewoods were planted, often in small areas woodland and its dependent wildlife. They help remote from other woods. As these mature there maintain the health of our rivers, stabilising banks The western coastal fringes bark and most have been converted to pasture or land will be opportunities to improve their conservation and providing nutrients, shade and cover. Many of of Scotland are home to the grazed. Some are now for cultivation. The ash value and make use of the timber. the wider floodplain woods have been cleared for Atlantic oakwoods;71 slow choked by rhododendron, grows alongside wych elm, pasture or agriculture and often only a thin strip of growing woods of oak, others were under-planted hawthorn, rowan, birch and birch, rowan, hazel and with spruce trees in the often stands of sycamore. The richest habitats tend to be where woodland has trees is left on river banks or hidden in the steeper holly, their canopies strewn heady days of plantation On the ground in spring been present continuously over many centuries gullies cut by the burns. Re-establishing the semi- with lichens. The forest forestry; these are now there are primroses, violets, maintaining a rich diversity of flowers, ferns, lichens natural woods along our rivers is a priority for the floor has blaeberries, being removed. wood avens and bluebells. and mosses. The soils in these ancient woods can Highlands85. mosses and ferns. Many contain woodland-specialist fungi and other wildlife were coppiced in the 18th Ashwoods74 grow on In some exposed coastal lost from much of the landscape. Reliable records Along the coast line, exposure to salt-laden winds and 19th centuries for patches of better soils, sites, patches of hazel occur only go back into recent history and so ‘ancient limits the growth of most trees. Salt-burnt foliage firewood or for tanning though many were long ago in thick, dense stands. woodlands’78 are defined as those that appear on can be seen on trees several hundred metres from 18th century maps. Many ancient woodlands were the coast, appearing weeks after storm winds. planted with introduced conifers in the 20th However a coastal scrub of birch, willows, hazel, century. In time, the conifers shade out the native aspen, juniper and blackthorn can survive right Rhododendron72 is an evergreen shrub, varieties of which were introduced to species and the irreplaceable habitat is degraded or down to the shoreline, as windswept clumps of gardens and parks in the 18th century and sometimes planted within woods to improve cover for game. It has spread easily within the woods of the Highlands and lost. The government has set targets for restoring trees. It provides cover for otters and birdlife, and 79 Islands and in some cases completely dominates the understorey, which could native species to ancient woodland sites with shelter for sheep, coastal roads and houses. Some otherwise be filled by native species, such as holly and hazel, and young trees. action plans and partnerships at national80 and introduced species such as sycamore and lodgepole Rhododendron shades out the ground flora and reduces the wildlife value of the local authority81 levels to promote this. pine are known to be fairly salt resistant. woods. Controlling Rhododendron and other invasive shrubs, such as cotoneaster, snowberry and knotweeds, is often a first step in improving the wildlife value of The small ancient and semi-natural woods are Higher up the hills, native woodland would have woodlands but takes a sustained and deliberate programme of control73. A single fragments of what were once much wider swathes graded from a natural treeline into montane rhododendron bush can produce a million windblown seeds and so cooperation of woodland. As the habitat was divided up scrub86. At these altitudes, the lower temperatures with neighbours is essential if eradication is to be effective in the long term. fragments have become isolated, separated from one mean a shorter growing season and icy winds prune another by fields, plantations, roads and houses. In varieties of juniper, willow and birch into low- 34 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Wildlife MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Wildlife 35

spreading shrubs. Montane scrub has survived in Invasives only a few places but those that remain are important for alpine plant and birdlife. It is being An invasive non-native species is one that has been restored in some places87 and, in time, a more transported outside of its natural range and that robust scrub habitat could benefit wildlife and game threatens environmental, agricultural or economic and add diversity to the landscape. resources. Non-native invasive plants are the second most important threat to our native plants after There has been a long history of grazing in Scottish habitat destruction. The problems they cause are woods and evidence of wood pasture88 survives very significant for and expensive to address - in throughout the Highlands: open-grown trees 2007 the Minister for Biodiversity stated that non- scattered across the hillside or in grazing parks native invasive species cost Britain £2 billion every along what used to be old drove roads. Some no single year. doubt arose by chance, when periods of reduced grazing allowed tree regeneration, but some may In the past, natural barriers such as oceans, have been deliberately maintained as wood pasture. mountain ranges and inhospitable climates have Lacking competition, the trees that remain can allowed unique ecosystems and species to evolve. endure for centuries, becoming ‘veteran trees’.With Increasing levels of activities such as global trade, sparse crowns, hollows and fissured bark they tourism and travel have resulted in an become a living generator of deadwood habitat, unprecedented dispersal of species into new In many cases complete eradication will not be compensating benefits for native birds or animals. home to specialist fungi, lichens and insects, while habitats throughout the world. necessary. For instance as long as unwanted As with many invasive species, successful control is providing roosts for birds and bats89.Many wood regeneration is controlled and an appropriate dependent on follow up action as required. pastures have been grazed out, others have When transported to new habitats these species are assemblage of native species maintained, retention of Sitka Spruce for economic objectives may be regenerated as more dense woodland. Areas of without their natural competitors or predators and For more information on invasive species, see: justifiable. Similarly, Sycamore can have a valuable wood pasture were often planted up with they are able to dominate or out-compete native http://www.plantlife.org.uk/uk/plantlife- role as a nurse crop, and will not present a risk if it introduced conifers that quickly shade out and species. campaigning-change-invasive-plants.html is felled before sexual maturity. displace the ancient trees. Veteran trees should be http://www.environment- maintained, by gradually removing competing trees In woodlands some of the tree species (eg Sitka agency.gov.uk/business/sectors/31364.aspx In other cases removal will always preferable. For and through managed grazing. Bringing on another spruce) introduced for economic reasons are Japanese Knotweed code of practice and control instance Giant Hogweed removal will be essential generation of mature trees nearby is crucial for the invasives that can have a damaging effect on native measures in any woodland with a recreation objective or with survival of the associated species. plant and animal species, but most of the http://www.nonnativespecies.org/ recreation areas adjacent or downstream of it. Giant problematic invasive species have originated from http://www.nonnativespecies.org/documents/ Hogweed and Japanese Knotweed are two of the ‘Growth rings on the fallen alder scattered gardens (eg Sycamore, Giant Hogweed, Japanese Invasive_NNS_Framework_Strategy_GB_E. plants listed in Schedule 9 of the Wildlife & throughout the woodland shows the trees are between Knotweed, Snowberry and Rhododendron pdf Countryside Act which it is illegal to plant or cause 50 and 75 years old, although there are a few broad- ponticum. Non Native Species Framework Strategy for GB to grow. crowned “veterans” that are probably much older’ http://www.jncc.gov.uk/pdf/BRAG_NNS_G A smallholding by a Highland river Once established, invasive species are often very enovesi&Shine- Currently Rhododendron ponticum is one of the difficult and costly to control or eradicate, which is EuropeanStrategyonInvasiveAlienSpecies.pdf species included in the Scottish Natural Heritage Semi-natural open habitats including bogs, heaths, why prevention is so important. Where invasives EU invasive species strategy Species Action Framework. It was introduced into coastal grasslands and wetlands are also are already present it is important to carry out an http://www.morverncommunitywoodlands.or 90 Britain in the mid 1700s as an ornamental plant. important and, in a few situations, wildlife may assessment of their potential to spread, options for g.uk/publications/IPIN2708RhododendronL Since then it has become widespread, particularly in be better served by removing trees. In such cases containment or eradication, and the extent to which aMFINAL.pdf Forest Research Internal woodland habitats on the west coast of Scotland. advice should be sought from Scottish Natural the invasive species contribute to, or compromise Project Information Note on Lever & Mulch Although the flowers give a colourful display, it Heritage. management objectives. Most importantly, there http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg017.pdf creates dense thickets and shades out native plants. should be an assessment of their potential impact /$FILE/fcpg017.pdf Edwards, C (2006) Its root system and leaf litter is also toxic to other on biodiversity in general, and priority habitats and Managing & Controlling Invasive plants and it will eventually come to dominate the species in particular. Rhododendron Guide habitat, to the total exclusion of virtually all other vegetation. As a non-native species it provides few 36 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Wildlife MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Wildlife 37

References 76. The management of semi-natural woodlands: Wet 84. Restoring and Managing Riparian Woodlands woodlands Forestry Commission Forestry Scottish Native Woods 2000. 65. Habitats and Rare Priority Protected Species Practice Guide No. 8. Describes the value of riparian woodlands, Forest Research. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg008.pdf/ their relationship with freshwater ecosystems, A decision support tool providing information $FILE/fcpg008.pdf and gives practical advice on their on species habitat requirements. establishment and management. This http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/website/ 77. The management of semi-natural woodlands: publication is not available online but can be forestresearch.nsf/ByUnique/INFD-75LHUP Native Pinewoods Forestry Commission Forestry ordered from Scottish Native Woods. Practice Guide No. 7. http://www.scottishnativewoods.org.uk/index. 66. Butterfly Conservation Scotland http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg007.pdf/ asp?tm=23 http://www.butterflyconservation.org/ $FILE/fcpg007.pdf downloads/49/bc_scotland.html 85. Highland Forest and Woodland Strategy The 78. Ancient woodlands Land Information Search Highland Council. 67. Forests and Wood Ants in Scotland Forestry Facility, Forestry Commission. http://www.highland.gov.uk/yourenviron Commission Information Note 2007. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd- ment/agriculturefisheriesandforestry/ http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/FCIN090.pdf/ 62fg7f treesandforestry/highland-forest-and- $FILE/FCIN090.pdf woodland-strategy.htm 79. The Restoration of Native Woodland on Ancient 68. List of rare and endangered species dependent Woodland Sites Forestry Commission Practice 86. Low Alpine, Subalpine & Coastal Scrub on British woodlands Forest Research. Guide. Communities In Scotland Highland http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/website/ http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg014.pdf/ Birchwoods 2000. forestresearch.nsf/ByUnique/INFD-75LHUP $FILE/fcpg014.pdf http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ UserFiles/File/publications/MontaneScrub/ 69. Information on protected areas Scottish Natural 80. UK plans and targets for woodland habitats The Lowalpine.pdf Heritage. UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Montane Scrub Scottish Natural Heritage 200.0 http://www.snh.gov.uk/protecting-scotlands- http://www.ukbap-reporting.org.uk/ http://www.snh.org.uk/publications/online/ nature/protected-areas/ heritagemanagement/montanescrub/ 81. Local action plans for wildlife in Highland 70. Restoring Natura Forest Habitats Caledonian Highland Biodiversity 87. Montane Scrub Restoration Project; Guidance for Partnership 2001. http://www.highlandbiodiversity.com/ the restoration of montane scrub Montane Scrub http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ Local plans for wildlife in Argyll Argyll and Bute Action Group. UserFiles/File/publications/Natura/Natura.pdf Biodiversity Partnership http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ http://www.argyllbute.gov.uk/biodiversity/ UserFiles/File/publications/MontaneScrub/ 71. The management of semi-natural woodlands: LBAP/Index.htm guidance.pdf Upland Oakwoods Forestry Commission Forestry Practice Guide No. 5. 82. Evaluating Biodiversity in Fragmented 88. Wood Pasture Scottish Natural Heritage 2004. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg005.pdf/ Landscapes: Principles Forestry Commission http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/ $FILE/fcpg005.pdf Information Note 2005. This Information Note heritagemanagement/woodpastures.pdf explains the scientific principles behind the 72. Information on rhododendron Forest Research. approach being developed as BEETLE – 89. Conservation value of trees with defects Scottish http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/website/ Biological and Environmental Evaluation Tools Agricultural College. forestresearch.nsf/byunique/INFD-63JJVS for Landscape Ecology. http://www.sac.ac.uk/mainrep/pdfs/ http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcin073.pdf/ arboriculturetreesdefects.pdf 73. Managing and controlling invasive rhododendron $FILE/fcin073.pdf Forestry Commission Practice Guide 2006. 90. Local action plans for wildlife in Highland http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg017.pdf/ 83. Forest Habitat Networks Forest Research Highland Biodiversity $FILE/fcpg017.pdf http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/habitat http://www.highlandbiodiversity.com/ networks Local plans for wildlife in Argyll Argyll and Bute 74. The management of semi-natural woodlands: Habitat Networks for Wildlife and People Biodiversity Partnership Upland Mixed Ashwoods Forestry Commission Scottish Natural Heritage and Forestry http://www.argyllbute.gov.uk/biodiversity/ Forestry Practice Guide No. 4. Commission Scotland 2003. LBAP/Index.htm http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg004.pdf/ This publication is not available online but can $FILE/fcpg004.pdf be ordered through the Forestry Commission website. 75. The management of semi-natural woodlands: http://www.forestry.gov.uk Upland Birchwoods Forestry Commission Forestry Practice Guide No. 6. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg006.pdf/ $FILE/fcpg006.pdf 38 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Timber MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Timber 39

Woods for Timber

Throughout history, local people have made good Many, particularly the spruce plantations in the use of timber from the woods around them; for west, have remained unthinned yielding a high houses, furniture, fences, ploughs, boats, barrels, proportion of small diameter logs when the crops carts, wheels and tools. At one time, estates and are clearfelled. In addition, while the mild wet rural communities had small sawmills adding value climate favours the fast growth of spruce this makes to locally grown timber. Most have now closed, but the wood less dense and suitable for only the lower- in some areas there is resurgence in traditional grades of structural timber, or for pulp or fuelwood. woodworking and in small scale or mobile timber The value of such a crop depends to a large extent processing. on the costs of harvesting and transport, which can be high where forest roads need to be built and the Even on exposed sites with relatively infertile soils, plantation is remote from markets. Economies of most small woods can produce some useable timber scale are important and the returns may be better if and non-timber products. However, unless there the wood can be managed as part of a wider has been deliberate management for timber it is plantation resource. unlikely it will be of a quality, and available in the sort of quantity, that is easily marketable. It may Timber crops however be possible to add value or use it locally. Woodland owners who are considering growing timber for future markets should aim to produce There are, of course, plantations of spruce and pine timber to which value can be added locally, because throughout the Highlands and Islands that were haulage costs to distant markets can significantly planted for timber. The best of these are on reduce returns. sheltered, accessible sites and some have been thinned to improve timber quality and increase the There is a range of species that grow well in the amount of larger logs suitable for sawn timber. Highlands and Islands and have properties that suit

‘...most small woods can produce some useable timber and non-timber products.’ 40 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Timber MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Timber 41

local markets91. Hardwoods include ash, birch, Different species grow at different rates and thrive Typically the first thinning will take place when the References oak, elm, alder and cherry as well as sycamore and on different levels of shading, making stands of trees are 15-25 years old, removing up to a third of beech. Conifer such as Scots pine, larch and intermixed species92 more complicated (and more the trees. Thereafter regular gradual thinnings 91. Association of Scottish Hardwood Sawmillers interesting) to manage. On new sites, planting a should be undertaken, favouring the trees with the Provides information on the timber from Douglas fir meet various needs and are all Scottish grown hardwoods including typical marketable for local use. mosaic of different species in groups of 50-100 trees best form. The aim is to reduce competition uses. of each species, may be more appropriate than between the remaining trees while maintaining a http://www.ashs.co.uk/index.php?option= Regardless of the primary objective it is worth creating a monoculture or an intimate mix of reasonably closed and windfirm canopy. Recently com_content&task=section&id=7&Itemid=19 considering future timber potential when planting species. thinned stands are less stable in the wind and there 92. Managing Mixed Stands of Conifers and or managing woods. The key to producing timber is an increased risk of windthrow, broken stems or 94 Broadleaves in Upland Forests in Britain is to plant the trees close together, regularly thin out A more intensive approach to growing timber may damaged crowns . The edges of stands should be Forestry Commission Information Note 2006. the weaker trees and provide space for the best trees be possible on better quality (probably previously left unthinned maintaining a windfirm edge that is Describes the management of mixtures of to produce a final crop. Initial wide spacing cultivated) land. The larger nurseries can provide less likely to blow over. conifers and broadleaves that are developing encourages larger branches and large crowns, which planting stock grown from genetically improved on many sites in upland forests. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/FCIN083.pdf/ in turn create knots and stresses that reduce the seed or from cuttings selected for better quality To reduce knots in the future timber, trees that are $FILE/FCIN083.pdf value of the sawn timber and the length of the main timber. Trees would be planted at a close spacing likely to make the final crop can be pruned to a stem suitable for sawmilling. Consider planting (2m by 2m or closer), protected from browsing reasonable sawlog height of 6-9 metres. Follow 93. Growing Broadleaves for Timber Forestry clumps of closely-spaced oak, elm, or ash, for animals and weeded until the canopy closes. Once guidance for pruning trees95 to minimise the risk of Commission Forestry Practice Guide . example, in sheltered patches within a wider the trees are established (1.5-2m tall) trees can be rot. Avoid bark damage to the remaining trees This publication is not available online but can be ordered through the Forestry Commission woodland scheme. pruned to ensure there is a single stem taking the when felling or extracting timber as this can allow website. lead. Model prescriptions have been derived for rot to get into the trees. http://www.forestry.gov.uk When restocking existing woodlands, a mixture of some species setting out the most appropriate species may result from natural regeneration. planting densities and thinning schedules93. 94. Forest Gales Forest Research. A computer model which calculates the probability of wind damage to trees in plantations. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/ hcou-4u4j3f

95. Pruning to Improve Timber Quality Scottish Agricultural College Technical Note 594. http://www.sac.ac.uk/mainrep/pdfs/ tn594timberquality.pdf 42 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Grazing and Shelter MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Grazing and Shelter 43

Woods for Grazing and Shelter

Grazing and browsing is a natural feature of the sward to allow tree seed to germinate. woodland ecosystems and for centuries woods have Temporary grazing by cattle and ponies can help to been used for sheltering and grazing livestock. Small open up dense plantations, and pigs97 can be used woods are still used for sheltering farm animals but to turn over the ground to promote ground layer not always in a sustainable way. Many woods have species diversification and encourage natural been lost or degraded because of unmanaged regeneration. If appropriate, a management plan98 grazing. Heavy, continuous use of the ground by should be prepared, showing the current level of use livestock, especially where animals are given winter by herbivores, setting out the conservation feed, can cause poaching, erosion, and compaction objectives of the proposed grazing regime and of the soil. Hungry animals strip bark from trees in showing how grazing will be managed and the winter and young regenerating trees are browsed monitored. and prevented from becoming established. ‘Five limosin-luing cross, heifer calves were purchased However, experience of protecting semi-natural and experimentally grazed using electric fencing to woodlands has shown that woodlands can also restrict them to particular areas at different times of suffer when livestock are completely excluded; year. The dense bracken was targeted in the late grasses become rank, displacing wild flowers and spring and early summer, when the bracken fronds preventing further regeneration of trees. The were beginning to unfurl, in an attempt to control benefits of grazing in semi-natural woodlands are the bracken by breaking up the rhizomes’ gradually being relearned with the emphasis on A smallholding by a Highland river managed grazing to improve the condition of the wood. Woods that contain veteran or ancient trees may reflect pastoral traditions from more than 200 years Animals graze, browse and forage in different ways ago, and need special attention99. Veteran trees host and some trees such as oak, willow, pine, birch and rare fungi, lichens and insects which require ash tend to be browsed more heavily than others. sensitive management. Even the worm treatments The number of animals in a given area, their type given to livestock can be shown to have a negative and breed and the periods when they have access, effect on the trees and the soil, particularly where will all have an effect on the wood96. Autumnal, animals congregate around individual trees. low-intensity cattle grazing is generally considered Organically-reared stock may be more appropriate the most benign and, if managed well, will help to in these situations. maintain the ground flora and encourage natural regeneration. Ducks, geese, hens and game birds Woods for shelter can also make use of woodlands with minimal impact. In the Highlands and Islands the main concern is shelter from the wind. Buildings, roads, gardens and The amount of shelter and grazing a wood can paths can all benefit from the shelter provided by sustain will depend on its size and its current woods but for many, the priority is sheltering condition. Large diverse woods with good structure livestock. Wet and windy weather can threaten the ‘Grazing and browsing is a and strong established regeneration will be more survival of lambs and calves and reduce the robust and can provide good forage in the autumn, productivity of grazing animals. Shelter woods natural feature of shelter in the winter, and perhaps an ‘early bite’ in reduce the wind speed and the wind chill effect and the spring, though not perhaps in succession. The thereby improve animal welfare. Many crofters and priorities for small, isolated degraded woods will be farmers have planted shelterbelts with various woodland ecosystems’ to secure regeneration and encourage diversification. degrees of success. Understanding the principles of Temporary grazing may contribute to this, reducing shelter100 can help ensure a well-designed wood coarse grasses, trampling bracken and breaking up that will provide shelter for years to come. 44 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Grazing and Shelter MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Grazing and Shelter 45

The effectiveness of a shelter wood depends on its increase wind speed beyond it. Two rows of conifers References orientation with respect to the prevailing winds (or will be an effective windbreak in the short term but the ‘problem wind’), and on its height and the may eventually blow down leaving no shelter. A few 96. Conservation Grazing of Semi-natural Habitats Scottish Agricultural College Technical Note porosity - how much wind can pass through it. The rows of different species, a mix of conifers, 586. width or thickness will affect the porosity of the broadleaves, small trees and shrubs, will provide http://www.sac.ac.uk/mainrep/pdfs/tn586 shelterbelt. Also, the wider a shelterbelt is, the flexibility to adjust and rejuvenate the shelter. conservation.pdf

easier it is to complete a phased restocking without Porosity can always be increased by careful thinning 97. Woodland Poultry and Pigs Glasu Project Report either removing all shelter for a period, or or pruning, or reduced by coppicing or hedging. Feasibility study into the potential of establishing a new shelterbelt on adjacent land. Wider shelter woods will take up more land and be incorporating poultry and pigs into woodland management for producers in Powys. Much of the wind will curl over the top and around more expensive to create, but may also provide http://www.glasu.org.uk/en/uploads/ the sides of a shelter wood, so it needs to be long other benefits such as firewood, Christmas trees, documents/WoodlandPigs&PoultryFeasibility and tall enough to provide sufficient sheltered area wildlife and managed woodland grazing. Study.pdf

behind it. A dense wood will form a windshield 98. Guidance Note on the Production of Grazing Plans which will slow the wind dramatically on the ‘The shelterbelt is a haven for birds, with several for Controlled Livestock Grazing in Woodlands leeward side for a short distance (up to 5 times the nesting blackbirds and many migrants using it as a This is part of the Woodland Grazing Toolkit which includes guidance and monitoring tree height), beyond which there will be increased hostelry. We even had a pair of redpolls bringing up procedures for woodland grazing. The turbulence before the wind speed quickly picks up families for two years running. A local beekeeper management plan was devised for earlier grant again. A taller more porous windbreak will allow keeps hives in a glade and we get delicious honey in schemes but is still relevant. http://www.argyllbute.gov.uk/biodiversity/ some air to pass through the wood, partially return’ Biodiversity%20in%20Argyll_files/Guidance reducing wind speed but over a greater distance (up Shelter in Shetland %20Notes%20ver9%20(low).pdf to 30 times the tree height). A hybrid approach 99. Wood Pasture Scottish Natural Heritage 2004. would be to have dense cover at lower levels and Shelter wood species can include the introduced http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/ more porosity higher up. conifers, such as Norway or Sitka spruce, along heritagemanagement/woodpastures.pdf with scots pine, ash, beech, oak and sycamore. In 100.The Principles of Using Woods for Shelter Forestry When establishing a new shelter wood it is worth very exposed coastal areas, alder, willow, sycamore Commission Information Note 2006. thinking about how it will develop over the longer and lodgepole pine tend to withstand exposure to This Information Note describes the physical term. As the trees grow, the height will increase but salt spray better than other species. There may be principles that determine the impact of woodlands on shelter provision. The so too may the porosity at ground level. A very circumstances where a more native mix is importance of the woodland height, porosity, gappy wind break may create a funnel effect and appropriate. width, length, orientation and shape on the area and level of shelter are discussed. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcin081.pdf/ Fig 1 $FILE/fcin081.pdf

Fig 2

(c) Crown copyright Reproduced with permission from Forestry Commission Information Note: The Principles of Using Woods for Shelter (FCIN081) 46 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for People MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for People 47

Woods for People

Managing woods is largely about meeting the needs and interests of people. These days that covers all In Scotland there is a right of responsible manner of things from mountain biking to green access. People may choose to visit and wood working as well as education and play. It is walk in your woods and you should not 106 important that we build on the strong human obstruct them from doing so. The land attachment to trees and woodland by strengthening manager has a duty of care to people our woodland culture. coming onto their land, identifying any hazards and taking steps to mitigate One expression of this is the growth of the them. Guidance is available on occupiers’ 107 community woodland sector101. Across the legal liabilities , on liabilities relating 108 Highlands and Islands, dozens of community to public access and on assessing the 109 groups are becoming involved in woodland risk of hazards from trees . management. A few groups purchase their own woods; others are working in partnership with public102 or private103 woodland owners to In our predominantly urban culture many young develop recreational, educational and amenity people are growing up with limited first-hand aspects and, in some cases, more practical or experience of the countryside. Forest Schools110 is commercial interests. a burgeoning initiative which brings young people into woodlands where they learn aspects of the ‘Two “open days” have been held, featuring chainsaw school curriculum through woodland-related carving, wood-turning, storytelling and a woodland activities. Most children respond well to outdoor orchestra, each attracting about 400 people to the education and for some, particularly those who have forest‘ difficulties with more mainstream schooling, the Restructuring Dunnet Forest forest environment can help improve social interaction with adults and with their peers. Some Woodland owners can work in partnership with initiatives, under contract to statutory agencies, local people for example by allowing a community specifically target people who are excluded from group to develop paths and other recreational society in one way or another, providing vocational facilities. training in woodland work111. The demand for outdoor recreation is huge; many Forestry Commission Scotland is promoting the millions of visits are made to woodland each use of local woods for learning112, in an initiative year104 and there is widespread encouragement for where schools are linked with woodlands nearby for promoting healthy, physical outdoor pursuits. Even use as an outdoor classroom. Repeat visits enable in the Highlands and Islands it is not always easy to children to develop a closer relationship with the find places to exercise the family or the dog, safe site, gaining confidence and gradually experiencing from cars and livestock. Woodlands can provide a new aspects of the natural environment. perfect setting for running, walking, picnicking, ‘It is important that we riding horses or mountain bikes and making dens. ‘Education plays an increasingly important role and Small woods may have a limited capacity but could we have worked with many local schools. Through build on the strong still be a significant local resource contributing to the eco schools initiative we have worked on buddy wider networks. Where paths are developed in benches, picnic tables, storytelling chairs, outdoor woods it is worth thinking about how any physical human attachment to classrooms and stages, living willow sculpture, barriers may be reduced to provide a level of access orchards and notice boards’ for people of all abilities. Guidance is available on Making the most of an oakwood the Disability Discrimination Act.105 trees and woodland’ 48 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for People MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for People 49

Heritage113 and community groups may also be Managing volunteers does require some planning References 110. Forest Schools interested in learning more about their immediate and administration. It is important to provide a http://www.foresteducation.org/forest_ schools.php?page=1 environment and local countryside rangers may be positive experience for the volunteer, to be rigorous 101. Community Woodlands Association http://www.communitywoods.org/ willing to lead visits to woodland. Owners of about health and safety and to ensure that 111. Hill Holt Wood Social Enterprise and Community Woodland Forest Research 2004. recently acquired woodlands will no doubt glean volunteers are not being paid. Real expenses can be 102. Community Partnerships on the National Forest Hill Holt Wood (HHW) is a14 hectare Estate Forestry Commission Scotland 2005. interesting information from the locals. reimbursed but anything else constitutes payment, deciduous woodland situated on the http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcfc108.pdf/ Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire border that meaning that employment legislation and the $FILE/fcfc108.pdf Some people are keen to take part in woodland minimum wage come into play. If unaccompanied provides vocational training for young people. http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pdf/eliv_ 103. Case Studies of Community Involvement in work - something that few in urban or rural areas young or vulnerable people are involved, the person hhw_report.pdf/$FILE/eliv_hhw_report.pdf Private Woodlands Forestry Commission have the opportunity to do. Hosting volunteers to managing the volunteers will need to go through Scotland 2005. 112. Woods for Learning Education Strategy Forestry help out with light work is an option. It may not ‘Disclosure’. This is the process by which the http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcfc109.pdf/ Commission Scotland $FILE/fcfc109.pdf work out any cheaper than hiring contractors but it Criminal Record Bureau provides information on http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcfc106.pdf/ $FILE/fcfc106.pdf should make for a more involved approach. people in positions that involve regular contact with 104. Forestry Statistics children or vulnerable adults. Volunteer centres114, http://www.forestry.gov.uk/website/ 113. Heritage North forstats2007.nsf/LUContents/2A26F32780 ‘... the Dounreay apprentices, Caithness Countryside which are distributed across the country, can help This website includes a directory of heritage- ACD4948025734E004FC218 Volunteers and the local Scouts, have helped with recruit volunteers and will provide clear advice on related organisations in the Highlands. http://www.heritagenorth.org.uk/ tree planting, path building, the tree nursery, pond how volunteers should be managed. There are also 105. Disability Discrimination Act http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/DisabledPeople/ restoration, control of invasive vegetation and charities and other organisations which manage 114. Volunteer Centre Network Scotland RightsAndObligations/DisabilityRights/ http://www.volunteerscotland.org.uk/ replacing fences’ volunteers who are on the lookout for suitable DG_4001069 Restructuring Dunnet Forest woodland projects115. 115. BTCV arrange volunteering opportunities 106. Scottish Outdoor Access Code related to woodland conservation. http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/ http://www2.btcv.org.uk/display/btcv_home heritagemanagement/occupiers.pdf Trees for Life is a Scottish charity working to 107. A Brief Guide to Occupiers’ Legal Liabilities in restore the Caledonian Forest to 600 square Scotland in relation to Public Outdoor Access miles of the Highlands west of Inverness. Trees Scottish Natural Heritage 2005. for Life work in partnership with land http://www.outdooraccessscotland.com/ managers to help deliver a programme of upload/47157%20screen.pdf practical work. http://www2.btcv.org.uk/display/volunteer 108. Public Access and Land Management (PALM) Scottish Natural Heritage 2007. This guide is designed to help farmers, crofters, estate managers and their advisors think about how to integrate access and land management following the introduction of the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 in February 2005. http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/ heritagemanagement/palm.pdf

109. Hazards from Trees: A General Guide Forestry Commission Practice Guide 2000. This Practice Guide indicates the responsibilities of owners and managers for assessing the risk of hazards from trees, and considers what inspection procedures might be appropriate. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg13.pdf/ $FILE/fcpg13.pdf 50 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value 51

Realising the Value

Woodlands that are valued for one reason or are still used in basketry. People also collect cones, another tend to be better looked after. This section fruits, bulbs, resin, flowers and medicinal plants. In of the handbook provides information on fact, the list of wild harvests includes about 200 harvesting and making use of woodland products different products from 173 species of plant and and, where practical, marketing them and adding fungus. value. Most gathering is for personal use and at a scale Woodland Certification that has little impact on the wood or the harvested Schemes resource. Gathering wild harvests is an enjoyable and rewarding way of using woods and learning People are aware of the importance of forests being more about wildlife. managed sustainably and expect products from Scotland to come from well-managed woods. Often the effort involved in collecting and Various independent organisations116 offer a marketing makes commercialisation difficult. A few certification process against management standards. enterprises produce honey, beeswax and essential The UK Woodland Assurance Scheme117 is a oils, or make wines from leaves, sap and berries. single common standard for use by certification There are established markets for mosses, fungi and programmes that operate in the UK. If a wood is foliage. Guidance on sustainable harvesting has certified, any product can then be advertised and been prepared for the more popular products such sold as coming from sustainably managed forests. as mushrooms, moss and bulbs123. Commercial There are other standards and schemes, some of collectors require the landowner’s permission and which also offer organic status118 for non-timber there is legislation that prohibits collection of some forest products. All of these schemes are voluntary protected species and from some sites. and there are costs involved. Woodland managers There is scope to promote or cultivate plants and may decide that the costs of certification are fungi within woods. Shitake124 and oyster outweighed by the value added to marketed mushrooms, for example, can be harvested from products. inoculated logs while berries, foliage and coppice products can all be ‘encouraged’. The Scottish Working Woods119 label scheme distinguishes and promotes woodland products that ‘With over 100 fruit and nut trees, lots of soft fruits, are grown and made in Scotland. polytunnels, chickens, mushroom logs and vegetable beds, Michaela and I eat well, preserve plenty and Gathering a Wild Harvest distribute the excess’ Making the most of an oakwood Woods can provide a bountiful harvest of foods, flowers, plants and other materials and, despite Woodfuel Scotland’s urbanised culture, many people (up to a fifth of us) enjoy collecting forest products121. Most woodland owners will expect to collect ‘Niche markets can offer good Mushrooms, brambles, blaeberries, raspberries, firewood from their woods. Those that do will rosehips, sloes, rowan and elderberries are waiting recognise that it takes considerable effort to keep a to be picked. Lichens can be used for natural dyes, fireplace supplied with dry logs. However, concern prices for small volumes of tree foliage for garlands and displays, elderflowers about rising fuel prices and the impact of fossil fuels and leaves are used for wine and tea, hazel nuts, on the environment is directing interest and wild garlic, sorrel and nettles can all be eaten. investment towards the use of wood for fuel. high quality timber.’ Nettle stems were traditionally used to make linen, Providing logs for wood-burning stoves is one and rushes woven into mats. Hazel and willow122 option but there are also modern boilers that burn 52 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value 53

wood chips or pellets. Many such woodfuel boilers methods of bundling and transporting logs. Drying are already operating at the small business scale and the wood is vital, as burning wet wood is very Extracting all but the smallest of material from several companies specialise in their installation. inefficient and frustrating. It will take at least a year woodland will usually require machinery and in a rainproof shelter with good air circulation to development or improvement of tracks131. Woodfuel is less energy-dense than oil or gas and air-dry softwood logs - even longer on the west However, trees felled to improve recreational access must therefore be used close to where it is coast. Some people advocate ‘forced’ solar drying in or habitat, or to thin timber stands, do not need to produced; it makes no economic or environmental polytunnels. Log drying can be done by the buyer, be removed. It may be simpler, and more cost sense to use large quantities of oil to transport but supplying dried logs allows the supplier to find effective, to leave them in the wood to decompose woodfuel around the country. Local fuel suppliers additional markets and charge more for the logs. and naturally recycle, providing ‘deadwood will be looking for long-term supplies of suitable Dry or wet, firewood has to be delivered reliably to habitat’132. Alternatively they can be used as material from existing or restocked plantations, customers in manageable quantities. material for sculptures, or to build woodland from native woodlands or from new plantations ‘furniture’ or dens. deliberately designed to provide woodfuel. In certain situations there may be a niche market in ‘top end’ supplies of firewood sold through garages Smaller portable sawmills133 can be brought into ‘A biomass plantation on unused croft land in Kyles and supermarkets. A few well-dried hardwood logs the woods to cut trees into more manageable pieces Scalpay takes a modern approach to the traditional neatly bundled128 for the weekend visitor could that can be extracted by hand but, even then, freshly “lazy bed” system with trees planted in 4 metre wide allow for a significant mark-up in value cut timber, especially hardwoods, can be very heavy. beds’ Adapted agricultural tractors134 and ATVs (all Woodland development by the Harvesting Trees terrain vehicles or ‘quads’135) can be used for North Harris Trust extraction, but specially designed timber trailers and Harvesting trees for timber or woodfuel can be a mini-forwarders136 are available that can negotiate Historically oak coppice was managed on a challenge. Most owners of small woodlands in the steep, rough terrain with little damage to the In the days before mechanisation, timber was felled commercial scale for woodfuel and there may be Highlands and Islands will be harvesting on a ground vegetation. Conifer branches are often used by axe and crosscut saw, and extracted by horse or situations where this can be revived. Short rotation relatively minor scale, removing individual trees, or to create ‘brash mats’137 to reduce the impact of flushed down purpose-built timber chutes. There coppice is being tried out in lowland arable sites, small groups of trees. Manual felling (using a extraction equipment on softer ground. Portable are still people working horses142, generally on the growing willow on two-three year cycles but this chainsaw) and cutting up smaller trees is hard and winches138 that attach to trees, tractors or ATVs, most sensitive sites, and the Glenfinnan chute143 is high-input system requires fertilisers and high-risk work129, but is within the scope of the can drag (or ‘skid’) logs out of the wood. a modern, plastic version of the old timber specialised harvesting machinery. A more part-time woodland manager. Training courses of a constructions, suitable for extracting smaller logs appropriate approach in the uplands may be short few days are available and are strongly advised. ‘...12 hectares of forest was clearfelled by contractors from sloping ground. rotation forestry, harvesting fast-growing species Protective clothing and equipment is also essential and the roundwood transported to the board such as alder, ash, birch, poplar and sycamore after when using power tools. Anyone contracted or manufacturer at Ardersier, at a considerable loss. Marketing Wood Products 10 -20 year rotations. Such stands would be employed to use a chainsaw must have a certificate Since then felling and thinning work (and almost all wildlife-friendly and useful as shelter. They could of formal training, insurance and protective other work) has been done by the Dunnet Forestry Most woodlands produce useable wood in some also be adapted to produce timber, pulp or board equipment130, and should not normally work Trust’s forester and forest workers, using chainsaws form but it may not be easy to find a market for material should markets change125. alone. Additional training is required for clearing and ATV extraction’ small quantities of lower quality timber unless there large and windthrown trees. Restructuring Dunnet Forest is strong local demand for firewood. Look into Increasingly, community groups126 and local possible markets before you consider harvesting144. contractors provide firewood for both domestic Almost all harvesting of conifer plantations is now Mobile chippers can chip smaller logs and branches If markets are poor and the trees are not liable to wood stoves and for larger, semi-automatic log-fed done by machinery. Mechanical harvesters have a for use as fuel, path material or mulch, while windthrow, it may pay to wait a few years leaving boilers that are used to heat farms and buildings. felling head that holds the tree and cuts it at the hydraulic splitters and firewood ‘processors’139 the trees to grow, or to find local outlets and onsite Processing and supplying logs has a minimal carbon base. Processers also delimb and crosscut the trees. make the production of firewood safer140 and uses for the timber. footprint127. It does however require some Forwarders are large tractor-trailers with hydraulic faster. All such equipment requires a degree of planning and investment. Trees have to be loaders that transport the logs across rough ground training and experience to use safely and effectively Marketing timber from the Highlands has always harvested efficiently and safely, logs cut to size and to the roadside. These machines are efficient and and regulations are becoming stricter. Few small been difficult, due to the dispersed woodland then split, stored and dried. Specialised firewood can cope with rough terrain. Anyone contemplating woods will warrant investment in a mini-forwarder resource and the distance to markets. Nowadays it processing equipment is available; hydraulic splitters harvesting on a significant scale should talk to a or other specialist equipment but these items can be is easier to purchase imported softwood building and cross-cutting machines as well as various specialist contractor about the best option. hired, and local machinery rings141 can be timber than locally grown wood and many smaller encouraged to invest if there is sufficient demand. rural sawmills have closed. 54 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Woods for Grazing and Shelter 55

The softwood mills that process the timber from and crafts people. If buyers can be found, niche conifer plantations are looking for large quantities markets such as these can offer good prices for small (100s) of straight trees, with a diameter at the base volumes of high quality timber. Large dimension of between 25cm and 60cm and a minimum Douglas fir, larch and Scots pine are in demand, diameter of 12cm. Commercial quantities of timber partly because it is not easy for industrial sawmills are sold ‘standing’ - as trees growing within a wood - to adapt their machinery to process them. Smaller or at ‘roadside’ after they have been harvested, hardwood mills can usually be more flexible. There extracted and stacked. Measuring and valuing may also be markets for ash poles and hazel wands standing timber on a commercial scale is a or craft markets for less usual timbers such as yew, professional job. Bringing machinery on site and holly, lime or maple. Websites146 are available that preparing extraction routes and forest roads for provide a free market place for small volumes of harvesting can be a significant investment and woodland products. economies of scale come into play. It may be possible to join with neighbouring woodland owners Mobile Sawmills to package a reasonable quantity for harvesting or to piggy-back on a larger operation nearby. For the owner of a small woodland, with minor quantities of mixed quality timber, it may make New markets for small diameter timber to feed sense to add value before sale or to produce sawn medium and large scale woodfuel energy schemes timber for the croft. Modern chainsaw mills can are now available in even quite remote areas of the be purchased at modest sums. These are fairly Highlands. Where they are available these markets inefficient but can cut rough planks from smaller will usually be more profitable than distant markets amounts of timber and make extraction easier. for small dimension timber owing to reduced Another option is to hire one of the several mobile haulage costs. Supplying to these schemes will sawmills147 operating in the Highlands and Islands usually be through a timber buyer who will help to convert logs into planks in, or close to, the wood. coordinate felling and transport of the timber. All the produce is retained including slabwood and sawdust. The timber can be visually graded as it Hardwood mills can process a wide variety of logs. comes off the mill; the marketable timber sent off- The Association of Scottish Hardwood Sawmills site to be kiln dried, while the lower grade material provides guidance on what may be of interest to can be air dried for local use. Consider using home- them145 but it is still worth talking to sawmillers grown timber for fences, gates, paths, steps, bridges, well in advance. Generally they will consider half a benches148 , sculptures, shelters or other temporary lorry load of large logs at least 1.8m long (but the structures. longer and straighter the better) with a minimum Many local sawmill and joinery businesses will have log diameter of 30cm.‘Burry’ elm fetches a premium ‘After seven years pushing a chainsaw mill, I bought Building with Local Timber a planer or thicknesser and some have profiling and other large mis-shaped trees may also be of a Lucas Mill, which cuts dimensionally accurate machines. However, not all sawmills have facilities interest. Sycamore, ash and beech need to be timber and is much more efficient. It is lightweight In recent years, a number of houses, sheds and for kiln drying wood, as the majority of locally sawn reasonably good quality - straight and with few and easily transportable; we carry it up into the other structures in the Highlands and Islands have timber is used in external applications such as branches - while oak and elm can be more mixed. woodland and mill the logs where they lie, or close by’ been built entirely from home-grown timber. The fencing. A small solar kiln can be made using Timber is best cut in the winter and even then, it Making the most of an oakwood approach is promoted in local authority policy polytunnels, or a dehumidifier unit150 can be set should be extracted and stacked quickly. Some guidance152 and a growing number of small up151 in an old shipping container or refrigerated timbers, including sycamore, pine and beech, will Further processing of timber is required for many businesses make a speciality out of designing153 lorry unit, but the cost of handling equipment and stain if the sawn surface is not dried, considerably uses and facilities can be few and far between. If and building using local timber154. While it is subsequent dry storage space should not be reducing their value. wood has to be transported large distances for possible to construct entire buildings from home- underestimated. processing, it may be more appropriate (and grown material, in most cases the desire will be to There are a growing number of businesses providing cheaper) to locate a supplier/processor149 nearer to use at least some local timber where it is available, specialist products for architects, furniture makers, timber sources. cost-effective and fit for purpose. 56 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value 57

Building Regulations, Structural to give you assurance of the dimensions157 and particularly well and is much used as cladding on bus shelters. Roundwood playground equipment Engineering and Certification the joint types required. For simple stud-wall outbuildings. will be familiar and may inspire ideas for more framing, joists and rafters, the most suitable ambitious use of timber in the round. Before embarking on any construction project, it is timbers are spruce and Scots pine, although only Internal Joinery essential to have some understanding of statutory A number of community groups164 have 155 the better quality home-grown material is likely to Home-grown timbers may be considered in non- Building Regulations and wide-ranging British constructed living willow or log cabin structures for give the dimensional stability required. For all but structural, internal situations, but good dimensional or European Standards. Most structures - certainly use as shelters, toilets, wildlife hides or stores. 165 the roughest work, the timber will generally need stability is essential and material should therefore all public buildings and dwellings - require building Some have used the construction process166 as a to be run through a planer or thicknesser to ensure be kiln dried. Skirtings, interior sills, architraves warrant and structural engineering certification. training project, bringing in professionals to train accurate dimensions. and ingoes can all be made in either hardwoods or This effectively means that the design will be local people. professionally executed, and structural (and some softwoods. Flooring and linings have been made Post and beam structures have been traditionally from home-grown timber and good examples other) timbers must be specified by an engineer. As Building a whole house is over-ambitious for the favoured for farm and estate buildings throughout include the visitor centre at Glencoe with its oak a general rule, all structural timber should be both inexperienced but it is worth considering Europe and America and there is growing interest floors and birch ceilings. Douglas fir and larch have well dried (to around 12% moisture or lower) and ‘compromise’ solutions. A standard timber-framed 156 in this framing method in Scotland using home- successfully been used as flooring in houses in the stress graded by a certified individual, or by kit could be erected to wind and water tight by a grown timbers such as Douglas fir, larch and oak. Highlands161. Home-grown hardwood worktops machine (as used in larger sawmills). Timber can be contractor and then externally clad and fitted out All these timbers have relatively high structural are also available in Scotland. Doors and windows dried by kiln or by air drying if it is to be used for on a self-build basis, using some home-grown strengths and all plane-up well for internally are best made from laminated timbers by specialist single-skinned, unheated buildings. The potential to timber. It will be important however not to under- exposed situations. The pink heartwood of manufacturers. Internal timber linings were make use of home-grown timber may be limited estimate the skill and time involved even in Douglas fir is particularly attractive and the species traditional in both large houses and croft houses where these facilities are not available. cladding a house to the standard required to meet is locally available on the Highland mainland. before the days of Building Regulations and Resurgence in green oak framing158 has centred Highland weather conditions. Incorrectly installed In some cases, sheds, agricultural and forestry plasterboard. Modern fire resistant or ‘intumescent’ on the available resource in Argyll159 and may be door and window details could lead to a ruined buildings, as well as a variety of unheated, coatings make it possible to use timber linings in a considered where the skills and timber are both structural frame in a short space of time. unserviced structures, can be built under Permitted contemporary context. available. For outbuildings, and applications where Development Order and, on occasions, without the structure may be subject to damp or direct Building Warrant but it is essential to check this Building Work precipitation, only the heartwood of larch or oak out thoroughly with the Local Authority. This small 162 can be used without preservative treatment. A degree of experience and training is clearly of ‘exempt’ category lends itself particularly well to benefit before embarking on construction work: not self-build and the use of local timber. Cladding just for the handling of tools and materials but for the reading/interpretation of drawings and ‘Working with my brother Rob, we learned to fell The upsurge in the use of timber cladding is partly compliance with health and safety regulations. and slab trees with a home-made chainsaw mill. a response to the growing recognition of its Working alongside an experienced builder is Using the timber, we built the workshop, founded on excellent environmental footprint along with a new probably the ideal way to learn. Small sheds and 160 tree stumps of untreated Sitka spruce. We built a acceptance by planners of its appropriateness . outbuildings are within the capability of many seasoning tunnel, carried slabs down out of the forest The majority of timber cladding is imported practical people but it is advisable to establish the and stacked them to season. We made picnic tables Canadian cedar or Siberian larch, but home-grown structural principles of even the smallest project and rustic furniture, built summer houses and larch and durable hardwoods such as oak, chestnut with an engineer, architect or experienced timber stables...’ and elm can be used untreated, straight off the builder. Making the most of an oakwood mill. The broadleaved species are mostly in short supply or absent from many parts of the crofting Basic stud framing requires relatively few tools and It is helpful to consider timber in buildings in three counties. Timber for cladding should be visually equipment. The more ambitious builder could categories; structure, cladding and joinery, each of graded and, in the case of untreated larch, it is consider post and beam building, which allows for which have different requirements. important to grade out all boards with sapwood the possibility of incorporating both roundwood on the face. Boards with loose knots will usually be and large section timbers. There are some examples Structure rejected. Other home-grown softwoods will in Scotland of the use of timber in the round - require pressure treatment with preservatives, 163 Even where certification of the structure is not roundpole construction. Some involve and/or surface coating, repeated at regular required, consulting a structural engineer will help sophisticated engineering but other relatively simple intervals. Scots pine takes pressure treatment structural solutions have been used for bridges and 58 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value 59

Harvesting Trees ATC Timber Sulky Forest Research Information 139. Small-scale Systems for Harvesting Woodfuel References Note Odw 9.04. Products Forestry Commission Technical Note 129. Basic chainsaw felling and manual takedown The ATC Timber Sulky comprises any 4WD October 2005. This Technical Note provides 116. UK-based woodland management certifying AFAG leaflet 302. ATC and a purpose built timber sulky with guidance on the selection of appropriate organisations http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/afag302.pdf winch. The system is capable of extracting systems for small-scale harvesting operations. http://www.fsc-uk.org/certification-bodies/ timber on sites where access is limited. A summary of the woodfuel production costs 130. Using petrol-driven chainsaws AFAG leaflet 301. http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pdf/ for the woodland types studied and a 117. The UK Woodland Assurance Scheme http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/afag301.pdf ODW904.pdf/$FILE/ODW904.pdf comparative summary of harvesting options http://www.ukwas.org.uk/index.html ATC Forwarder Forest Research Information are provided as tables. 131. Access Track Construction in Small Woodlands Note Odw 9.03. http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pdf/ 118. The Soil Association Forestry Commission Technical Note 27/98. The ATC forwarder comprises any 4WD ATC fctn009.pdf/$FILE/fctn009.pdf http://www.soilassociation.org/forestry Simple access tracks can be constructed at with a purpose built trailer. The system is relatively low cost using standard suitable for the extraction of small diameter 140. Firewood processors AFAG leaflet 607 119. Scottish Working Woods Label construction machines. shortwood timber on level to moderately http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/afag607.pdf http://www.scottishworkingwoods.org.uk/ http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/ sloping ground (up to _ 30%). index.html ODW703.pdf/$FILE/ODW703.pdf http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pdf/ 141. Machinery ring for conservation-related ODW903.pdf/$FILE/ODW903.pdf equipment 121. Wild harvests from Scottish woodlands: social, 132. Life in the Deadwood: A guide to managing http://www.hbsring.co.uk cultural and economic values of contemporary dead wood in Forestry Commission forests 136. Mini-Forwarders. Developments in technology non-timber forest products Forestry Commission Forest Enterprise 2002 have allowed the production of a range of 142. British Horse Loggers 2006. http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pdf/ http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/lifeinthe mini-forwarders suited to extracting felled http://www.britishhorseloggers.org fcrp008.pdf/$FILE/fcrp008.pdf deadwood.pdf/$FILE/lifeinthedeadwood.pdf timber from small woods. They have the benefits of hydraulic loaders and all wheel 143. Glenfinnan Log Chute Forest Research Technical 122. Willows in Powys Glasu Project Report. 133. Mobile Sawmills Highland Birchwoods drive. These information notes consider Note 6/94. Willow market research. Information Sheet No.2 suitability and cost. A log chute developed by an estate forester http://www.glasu.org.uk/en/uploads/ has potential for extracting timber from first http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ The Alstor Mini-Forwarder Forest Research documents/WillowMarketResearch.pdf thinnings in environmentally sensitive areas UserFiles/File/publications/Information Information Note Odw 9.06. http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ Sheets/Info2(1).pdf Http://Www.Forestresearch.Gov.Uk/Pdf/ 123. Guidance on sustainable harvesting of wild userfiles/file/publications/Forest%20Research harvests Odw906.Pdf/$File/Odw906.Pdf 134. The Adaptation Of Agricultural Tractors For %20Reports/TN694%20log%20chute.pdf http://www.forestharvest.org.uk/ Forestry Forest Research Technical Note 24/95. The Scorpion 1205 Mini Forwarder Forest Sustainable.htm#harvestingguidelines http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ Research Information Note Odw 9.07. Marketing wood products userfiles/file/publications/Forest%20Research Http://Www.Forestresearch.Gov.Uk/Pdf/ 124. Growing Shiitake Mushrooms (Lentinula edodes) %20Reports/TN2495%20Adapt%20 Odw907.Pdf/$File/Odw907.Pdf 144. A Marketing Guide for Owners of Small in The Highlands, Highland Birchwoods Tractors.pdf The Vimek 606d Mini-Forwarder Forest Research Woodlands Small Woods Association Information Sheet 4. (England specific but relevant) Timber Trailers For Agricultural Tractors Information Note Odw 7.12a. http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ http://www.smallwoods.org.uk/media/ Forest Research Technical Note 28/95. http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pdf/ UserFiles/File/publications/Information- OLD%20CONTENT/PDF/71%20%20Wood http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ ODW712a.pdf/$FILE/ODW712a.pdf Sheets/Info4.pdf %20Owners-5.pdf userfiles/file/publications/Forest%20Research %20Reports/TN2895%20Trailers.pdf 137. Managing Brash on Conifer Clearfell Sites Woodfuel Forestry Commission Practice Note February 145. Association of Scottish Hardwood Sawmillers Small Scale Thinning Processors For Use With 2006. This Practice Note gives guidance on ASHS has a list of common Scottish hardwood 125. The potential for farmers to become involved in Agricultural Tractors Forest Research the range of available options for brash timbers their uses. the woodfuel supply chain through the use of Information Note Odw 12.04. management, and the possible consequences http://www.ashs.co.uk short rotation forestry. A report prepared for http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pdf/TDB_ of each option. Northern Woodheat. ODW1204.PDF/$FILE/TDB_ODW1204.PDF http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcpn013.pdf/ 146. Ecolots http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ $FILE/fcpn013.pdf The Ecolots website provides a market space userfiles/file/publications/Woodfuel/Short% 135. Equipment For All Terrain Cycles Forest Research for small volumes of woodland products 20Rotation%20Forestry%20Report.pdf Technical Development Report 2/9.4 138. Small Scale Mechanised Extraction: Case Studies http://www.ecolots.co.uk/index.php Equipment is available which can enhance the Forest Research Technical Development Report 126. Dunnet Forestry Trust runs a firewood scheme roles of All Terrain Cycles in forests and small 2/97. Mobile sawmills http://www.dunnetforest.org/ woodlands. Three items of timber extraction equipment http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ were tested in Welsh broadleaved woodlands, 147. A Guide to Hiring a Mobile Sawmill Highland 127. Firewood Marketing Study Northern Woodheat userfiles/file/publications/Forest%20Research the Kolpe and Sollid portable winches and the Birchwoods Information Sheet 2. 2007 %20Reports/REPORT%20294%20ATC.pdf Oxen pedestrian controlled forwarder. Each This information sheet describes various types http://www.northernwoodheat.net/htm/ ATC Loading Arch Trailer Forest Research was found to be effective in its own particular of mobile sawmill. Publications/Firewoodmarketingreport.pdf Information Note Odw 9.02. role. http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ The system comprises a 4WD ATC, with a http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ UserFiles/File/publications/Information- 128. Firewood bundling Glasu Project Report 2006 purpose built trailer incorporating loading userfiles/file/publications/Forest%20Research Sheets/Info2(1).pdf http://www.glasu.org.uk/en/uploads/ arch and winch. %20Reports/R297%20Small%20Scale%20 On site sawmilling and timber conversion documents/Firewood%20Building%20Project http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/pdf/ extract.pdf information pack Chilterns Woodland Project %20Report.pdf ODW902.pdf/$FILE/ODW902.pdf Covers a variety of small scale mobile machinery for extraction and milling. 60 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Realising the Value 61

http://www.chilternsaonb.org/downloads/ 153. Designing with Timber ARCA the Journal of 159. Argyll Green Woodworkers Association 164. Huts, Hides and Homes: Sustainable structures publications/On_site_Sawmilling.pdf Scottish Architecture 2001. www.argyllwood.co.uk and shelters for community woodlands North http://www.forestry.gov.uk/website/pdf.nsf/ http://www.nhft.org.uk/documents/ 148. Countryside Access Design Guide Scottish pdf/designingwithtimber.pdf/$FILE/ 160. Timber Cladding in Scotland ARCA publications Forum%20Report%202005.pdf Natural Heritage. designingwithtimber.pdf Ltd. 2002. This document provides advice and guidance New Timber Architecture in Scotland http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/ 165. Construction of the Log Cabin Offwell on design principles and information sheets CTE/FCS/Scottish Enterprise 2007. 2002/03/15098/8731 Woodland & Wildlife Trust. on structures frequently used by land This publication is not available online but is Designing the timber façade (in preparation This website hosts a slide show showing managers to assist and manage public access available free on request from Forestry 2008) Arcamedia, Edinburgh construction of a log cabin shelter by to the countryside, including: gaps & barriers, Commission Scotland. Woodenways, a company that provides gates, stiles, steps and ramps, fences. http://www.forestry.gov.uk 161. The Production And Marketing Of Scottish training in log building. http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/ Hardwood Flooring Highland Birchwoods http://www.countrysideinfo.co.uk/cabin/ heritagemanagement/cadg.pdf 154. The Woodstack North Highland Forest Trust 2001. log_cabin1.html and Forestry Commission Scotland. Report on markets for low grade home grown 149. Association of Scottish Hardwood Sawmillers A newsletter linking local timber producers, hardwood timber for use as hard wood 166. Scribe Log Building North Highland Forest Trust Through ASHS, you can: find your local users and woodworkers across Sutherland and flooring. Information Note. supplier of Scottish hardwood - sawn timber Caithness http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ http://www.nhft.org.uk/documents/Log- planking, wooden floors, beams, cladding and http://www.nhft.org.uk/pages/ UserFiles/File/publications/marketing/ build%204.pdf structural timbers, bespoke kitchens, publications.html Marketingreport.pdf handmade furniture, and more; access on-line information about Scotland’s native hardwood 155. Scottish Building Regulations : Technical 162. Walter Segal Self Build Trust trees and timber as well as information on the standards This website provides an introduction to the products that ASHS members supply plus www.sbsa.gov.uk/tech_handbooks/tbooks self build approach of Walter Segal and shows technical notes to assist in specification; link 2007.htm some contemporary designs. up with other people who appreciate and are http://www.segalselfbuild.co.uk/home.html inspired by Scotland’s native hardwoods and 156. Making the Grade - a guide to appearance Wood for Good Factsheets on using timber in support the creation of new woodlands, as grading UK grown hardwood timber Arcamedia construction. well as the sustainable and productive 2005. Not aimed at home grown timber but management of Scotland’s existing forest The guide provides information on the range otherwise relevant. resource. of quality available from our sawn hardwood http://www.woodforgood.com/ http://www.ashs.co.uk/ timber and highlights the special features of resource_centre.html UK grown hardwoods that are often difficult 150. Low Technology Kilns and Drying Schedules for to obtain from imports. The guide also gives 163. Round Timber In Construction: An Introduction Hardwood in Small-scale Operations Forestry information on timber measurement, the Trada Technology 2003. Commission Information Note 24 1999. properties and uses of UK hardwoods, and an http://www.trada.co.uk/techinfo/asset/send/ http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcin24.pdf/ illustrated technical glossary. 830/content/RoundtimbIntro/index.html $FILE/fcin24.pdf www.forestry.gov.uk/hardwoods Round Timber In Construction: Notes For Stress grading timber by visual and mechanical 151. Drying Timber from Small diameter Logs, Coed Structural Design The Timber Research and means The Timber Research and Development Cymru Information Sheet 7. Development Association. Association. Various priced publications are http://www.coedcymru.org.uk/ This sheet gives a technical background to the available on this subject which can be ordered dryingtimber.htm design of round timber structures. It brings from TRADA. together basic terminology, grading and Air Drying of Timber Information Pack http://www.trada.co.uk/ species selection advice together with Chilterns Woodland Project. suggested simplified design approaches and A comprehensive guide to drying timber 157. Span tables for solid timber members in key references for further detailed including small scale methods. dwellings. The Timber Research and information. http://www.chilternsaonb.org/downloads/ Development Association. http://www.trada.co.uk/techinfo/asset/send/ publications/Air_Drying_of_Timber.pdf http://www.trada.co.uk/ 831/content/Roundtimbstrucdes/index.html Usage of Roundpole in Scotland: A Review of Building with local timber 158. Green Oak in Construction The Timber Current Activity Research and Development Association. This report details the findings of market 152. Designing for Sustainability in the Highlands A highly illustrated guide to the use of green research performed in Scotland during May Development Plan Policy Guidance. The oak, written by an expert team. The authors 2000 to assess current levels and modes of Highland Council, November 2006. describe the whole process of green oak in roundpole usage, and to identify http://www.highland.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/ construction: the design, framing and opportunities for development. 32586135-70EC-40E3-8F7BDE45B158B501/0/ enclosing of structures. Comprehensive http://www.gaiagroup.org/Research/RI/PAS/ designingforsustainabilityinthehighlands specifying information, design data and roundpole/market/market.pdf nov2006.pdf grading rules are also included for reference. http://www.trada.co.uk/ 62 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Learning and Support MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Learning and Support 63

Learning and Support

The online version of this handbook provides links services. The Forestry Contracting Association176 to many sources of information and the Scottish also has an online directory of companies involved Crofting Federation can send you printed copies of in all aspects of forestry work. the references relating to particular sections. For some, however, it may be simpler to talk to people. Membership groups177 provide a way of learning The Scottish Crofting Federation167,Scottish about small woodlands and making contacts. The Agricultural College and local offices of Forestry Argyll Green Woodworkers Association178 is one Commission Scotland, will all provide initial advice such organisation: a registered charity which aims to woodland owners, directing them towards to encourage interest in woodland skills and history, suitable sources of support and information. bring native woodlands into sensitive management, co-ordinate woodworking demonstration and In addition, there are a few initiatives and charitable training and stimulate the use of local timbers. The organisations working within the Highlands and Association runs occasional open days or trainings Islands that can provide support and advice to on subjects such as charcoal making, barrel making, woodland owners. These include The Sunart basket weaving and milling timber. The Native Oakwood Initiative168, North Highland Forest Woodland Discussion Group179 is another friendly Trust169, Scottish Native Woods170, Highland and informal group of people enthusiastic about the Birchwoods171, Small Woods Association172, ecology and management of native woodlands. The Scotland FWAG (Farming and Wildlife Advisory group holds an annual meeting in early summer Group)173 and the Community Woodland with visits to woods and woodland-related projects. Association174. The group produces a newsletter and arranges training workshops on particular subjects such as The Institute of Chartered Foresters175 has a woodland history and lower plants: the mosses, register of forestry consultants who provide lichens and fungi that tend to be overlooked. professional advice and woodland management 64 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Learning and Support MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Learning and Support 65

Training References 175. Institute of Chartered Foresters http://www.charteredforesters.org/ default.asp?page=6 167. Scottish Crofting Federation 180 The Scottish School of Forestry is based at a http://www.crofting.org/ campus near Inverness and provides an array of 176. Forestry Contracting Association FCA provides an online directory of woodland 168. Sunart Oakwoods Initiative training from practical skills certificates, to Higher contractors. A broad-based partnership initiative working http://www.fcauk.com/ National Diplomas and a degree course in to restore and expand the oakwoods of sustainable forestry. Ardnamurchan and Morvern. 177. Reforesting Scotland http://www.sunartoakwoods.org.uk/ A networking organisation of those active in the ecological and social regeneration of The Scottish Crofting Federation is developing a 169. North Highland Forest Trust Scotland. comprehensive, practical, forestry training An independent charitable organisation http://www.reforestingscotland.org/ programme designed specifically for crofters and giving free advice and assistance to groups, crofters and individuals within Caithness and 181 178. Argyll Green Woodworkers Association is a small landholders . The programme will include Sutherland. membership organisation, and a registered a menu of training modules on subjects such as http://www.nhft.org.uk/index.htm charity, which aims to encourage interest in surveying, fencing, planting, weeding, deer control woodland skills, research woodland history 170. Scottish Native Woods and ecology, bring native woodlands into and habitat management, any of which may be This is a charitable organisation promoting sensitive management, co-ordinate selected to achieve certified levels of competency. native woods in Scotland. Its main focus is to woodworking demonstration & training, assist woodland occupiers to look after native Trainees may also claim a level of proficiency gained stimulate the use of local timbers. woods and it provides help with surveying http://www.argyllwood.co.uk/AGWA/ through their own learning experience or other woodlands, developing plans and proposals agwahome.htm relevant training. The courses will be delivered and securing funding. Charges are made for some of the more commercial services they through Lantra Awards which specialises in 179. The Native Woodland Discussion Group provide. A friendly and informal group of people who qualifications and training for the environmental http://www.scottishnativewoods.org.uk/ are enthusiastic about the ecology and and land-based sector. index.asp?tm=42 management of native woodlands. The group holds an annual meeting each May or June 171. Highland Birchwoods was formed as a with visits to woods and woodland-related ‘An important aspect of crofter forestry in Assynt has partnership of the Forestry Commission, projects. The group produces a newsletter and been the chance it has given several young people to Scottish Natural Heritage, Highland Council arranges training workshops. and Highland & Islands Enterprise to promote acquire forestry skills..... between 1996 and 2001, http://www.nwdg.org.uk/ best practice in the management of forestry work generated more than three full-time- woodlands and forests. 180. The Scottish School of Forestry equivalent jobs and now three local men work full http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ http://www.school-of-forestry.org time in forestry around the Highlands.’ 172 Small Woods Association Britain’s leading 181. Highlands and Islands Crofters and Small Crofter Forestry in Assynt organisation in supporting and promoting the Landholders Training Programme Scottish work done by the owners and carers of small Crofting Federation woodlands http://www.crofting.org/index.php/ http://www.smallwoods.org.uk/ training/62 173. Scotland FWAG is a farmer-led organisation and Scotland’s leading independent provider of environmental and conservation advice to farmers and crofters. http://www.fwag.org.uk/scotland/

174. The Community Woodlands Association represents Scotland’s community woodland groups. The aim of the Association is to help community woodlands across the country achieve their aspirations and potential, by supporting, representing and promoting community woodlands. This includes arranging training events for member groups. http://www.communitywoods.org/ 66 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Grant Support for Woodlands MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Grant Support for Woodlands 67

Grant support for woodlands

The Scottish Rural Development Programme185 The LEADER186 initiative is a community-led (SRDP) delivers forestry grants in Scotland as part approach to development managed by partnerships of an integrated system for supporting rural of local stakeholders (Local Action Groups). This is development. for innovative projects from community groups to address development needs at a local level. The SRDP programme contributes to the following three objectives: Up to date information on grants available for 1. Improving the competitiveness of agriculture and woodland work and on the application process can forestry by supporting restructuring, be found on the internet. The Scottish Crofting 187 development and innovation (axis 1) Federation , Scottish Council for Voluntary 188 2. Improving the environment and the countryside Organisations and local offices of Forestry by supporting land management (axis 2) Commission Scotland can also provide help and 3. Improving the quality of life in rural areas and advice. encouraging diversification of economic activity (axis 3)

The SRDP is available to land managers (farmers, References crofters, foresters, sporting estates), other 185. Scotland Rural Development Programme individuals, rural businesses and community http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Rural/ groups. It aims to provide a simplified approach for SRDP businesses by providing a ‘one stop shop’ for 186. LEADER applicants. http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/SRDP/ Farmingrural/LEADER Land Management Contracts (LMCs) have three 187. Scottish Crofting Federation tiers of support: http://www.crofting.org/ Tier one is the Single Farm Payment and Cross 188. Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations Compliance http://www.scvo.org.uk/ Tier 2 is the LMC Menu Scheme (non- competitive) Tier 3 is the Rural Priorities (competitive)

‘Forestry grants will be part of an integrated system for supporting rural development’ 68 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Rules and Regulations MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Rules and Regulations 69

Rules and Regulations

Felling Trees biodiversity (wildlife), the historic environment, soils, water, and forests and people. A felling licence189 is required to cut down more 3 than 5 m of growing trees in any calendar quarter. Health, Safety and Employment If the felling is done as part of a management plan with government grants, a licence will be issued The health and safety of people working in or using with the grant. Woodland cannot normally be woodland is another important area of 196 cleared of trees for another use unless the regulation . An ‘occupier’ of land has a duty to development has planning permission. show care towards people on that land and should assess the risks and take steps to address them. 197 The Environment There is guidance on occupiers’ legal liabilities, on liabilities relating to public access198 and on Any change in woodland cover may require an assessing the risk of hazards from trees199. environmental impact assessment190. This includes creating new woodlands, felling woodland that will Contractors and professional advisors should not be re-planted, or building forest roads. Not all demonstrate they have appropriate qualifications work will need this but in some situations even and experience, as well as public and professional small changes involving only a hectare or so may liability insurance. If you employ someone directly require consent. The proposer must apply to then employment law applies, relating, for example, Forestry Commission Scotland for a formal opinion to conditions of employment, tax, national on whether consent is required. insurance and employers’ liability. As an employer you also need to ensure employees are suitably Where a grant is being requested or when a felling skilled and trained to do the work safely200. licence or environmental statement is required, the 191 proposed project is listed on a public register for Consulting with local people four weeks. The local authority and other organisations with a statutory interest in land use When planning woodland operations it makes are consulted192. The public can also comment on sense to consult with neighbours, or others who what is being proposed. may be affected, and to keep a note of the discussions. Where the woodland forms part of a Some land is covered by conservation designations larger area of forest or semi-natural habitat, it is or other arrangements which can restrict what you particularly useful to discuss the impacts on the are able to do. The Forestry Commission’s Land area as a whole and to collaborate over access, Information Search193 facility is an online map that wildlife management and deer management. More 201 shows where land has an existing forest formal consultation processes will be management agreement in place, is designated as appropriate where there is a particular interest from important for wildlife or cultural heritage or is the local community. otherwise considered environmentally sensitive. It also shows recognised rights of way. ‘Woodland operations can Woodland operations can affect people, wildlife194 and the wider environment. The UK Forest Standard195 sets out the regulatory framework for affect people, wildlife and the forestry and the environment, taking account of various laws and regulations and setting out wider environment.’ principles of best practice. It is supported by a series of helpful guidelines covering landscape, 70 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Rules and Regulations MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Rules and Regulations 71

References Forest operations and European protected species 197. A Brief Guide to Occupiers’ Legal Liabilities in in Scottish forests Forestry Commission Scotland in relation to Public Outdoor Access Scotland Guidance Note 34. Scottish Natural Heritage 2005. 189. Tree Felling: Getting Permission Forestry The main European protected species which http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/ Commission 2007. are likely to be affected by forestry in Scotland heritagemanagement/occupiers.pdf This booklet tells you what you need to know are bats, (all species), great crested newt, about getting permission to fell any trees for otter and wildcat. Natterjack toad and some of 198. Public Access and Land Management (PALM) yourself or for someone else. the plant species, such as yellow marsh Scottish Natural Heritage 2007. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/treefelling saxifrage may rarely occur in woodlands or be This guide is designed to help farmers, august.pdf/$FILE/treefellingaugust.pdf affected by forest operations. crofters, estate managers and their advisors http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/Guidance think about how to integrate access and land 190. Environmental Impact Assessment of Forestry note34protectedspecies2.pdf/$FILE/Guidance management following the introduction of Projects Forestry Commission 2007. note34protectedspecies2.pdf the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 in This booklet describes the EIA process. February 2005. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/wgseia.pdf/ Forest operations and birds in Scottish forests http://www.snh.org.uk/pdfs/publications/ $FILE/wgseia.pdf Forestry Commission Scotland Guidance Note 32 2006. heritagemanagement/palm.pdf 191. Public Register Forestry Commission Scotland This note gives further advice on how best to 199. Hazards from Trees: A General Guide Forestry This webpage directs you to information on plan forestry operations and recreational Commission Practice Guide 2000. the register of grant schemes and felling and activities in woodlands to avoid causing This Practice Guide indicates the the register of Environmental Impact damage or disturbance to protected wild birds responsibilities of owners and managers for Assessments. in Scotland. assessing the risk of hazards from trees, and http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd- http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/Guidancenote considers what inspection procedures might 5zadt9 32Birddisturbance.pdf/$FILE/Guidancenote 32Birddisturbance.pdf be appropriate. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/PDF/fcpg13.pdf/ 192. How we consult about woodland planting and Forest operations and red squirrels Forestry $FILE/fcpg13.pdf tree felling Forestry Commission 2002. Commission Scotland Guidance Note 33 2006. This booklet describes the process the Forestry This note sets out further advice on how to 200. Arboriculture & Forestry Advisory Group Leaflets Commission takes to consult with local plan and carry out forest operations and Health and Safety Executive. authorities and other organisations before recreational activities in woodlands to These leaflets provide advice about safe deciding whether to approve applications for minimise the possible impacts on red working practices and the use of equipment woodland planting and for tree felling. squirrels. related to forestry operations. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/consult.pdf/ http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/Guidancenote http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/forindex.htm $FILE/consult.pdf. 33Redsquirrel.pdf/$FILE/Guidancenote33Red squirrel.pdf 201. A toolbox for public involvement in forest and 193. Land Information Search Forestry Commission. Forests and wood ants in Scotland Forestry woodland planning Forestry Commission. This webpage provides links to the Land Commission Information Note 2007. This book of information sheets describes Information Search facility on the Forestry This Information Note provides information on practical ways to include people in forest or Commission website. the northern wood ant Formica lugubris, the woodland planning. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/infd- Scottish wood ant Formica aquilonia and the http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/ 645j4t narrow-headed ant Formica exsecta. infd-5xmds8 http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcin090.pdf/ 194. Forest operations and badger setts Forestry $FILE/fcin090.pdf Commission Forest Practice Guide 9. This sets out legal requirements and best 195. The UK Forestry Standard: The Government’s practice with regard to minimising the Approach to Sustainable Forestry Forestry impacts of operations on badgers. Commission 2004 This book sets out the http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcpg9.pdf/ context for the regulatory framework for $FILE/fcpg9.pdf forestry in the UK concerning the environment Forest operations and wildlife protection Forestry and is supported by a series of guidelines. Commission Scotland Guidance Note 31 2006. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcfc001.pdf/ This note summarises current wildlife species $FILE/fcfc001.pdf protection law in Scotland in relation to forestry operations and gives general 196. Managing Health and Safety in Forestry Health guidance on best practice to minimise adverse and Safety Executive 2003. effects on protected species. This booklet describes the roles of woodland http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/Guidance owners, managers and contractors with note31wildlifeprotection.pdf/$FILE/Guidance regard to health and safety. note31wildlifeprotection.pdf http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg294.pdf 72 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences 73

Shared Experiences

Crofter Forestry in Assynt shareholders according to their shareholding, although in some townships part is held back by the by Bill Ritchie, Assynt Crofter grazing committee for community projects such as fence repairs and livestock pens. The Assynt Crofters Trust planted 800 hectares of native woodland on the North Assynt Estate in the Before the planting began, there were little if any north-west highlands. The woodland helps to forestry skills in the community, but there was a diversify the land use and improve wildlife habitat local family connection to a manager with one of while providing income and community interest. the larger forest management companies, who was Bill Ritchie, one of the driving forces behind the keen to support the crofters. In exchange for taking Assynt Crofters Trust, describes how it came about. on the management of forestry schemes, the company offered to carry the cashflow, which could Crofter forestry has been one of the big successes of be a significant obstacle, because all the costs of the Assynt Crofters Trust (ACT) following their fencing need to be borne before the first forestry historic buyout of the North Assynt Estate in grant payment is made. The one township that 1992-3. The buyout undoubtedly generated energy decided to go it alone did run into cashflow and enthusiasm for working together, which was a problems, which were resolved by a grant from the great stimulus for the crofters to seize the Highland Fund and a bank loan for which opportunity presented by crofter forestry. shareholders had to offer personal guarantees. Encouraged by a couple of keen directors of ACT, An important aspect of crofter forestry in Assynt more than half of the 13 crofting townships on the has been the chance it has given several young estate have established native woods, involving 85 people to acquire forestry skills. The crofters out of the 120 or so crofters. Around 800 hectares, negotiated with the management company agreeing almost 10% of ACT’s land, has been planted with that local people would receive training and be native trees - one of the highest levels of take-up by given the first option of work in seed collection, the crofting communities. fencing and planting. As a result, between 1996 and 2001, forestry work generated more than three full- When asked what motivated them to get involved time-equivalent jobs and now three local men work in crofter forestry, the crofters’ reasons ranged from full time in forestry around the Highlands. Two the practical (‘reduced sheep numbers meant land others are involved in ongoing deer management was available’) and financial (‘to bring significant and fence maintenance work in Assynt. The income into the township’) to environmental (‘to ferociously windy climate, severe gales in recent ‘...it has been transformed into a create a large-scale habitat for wild animals, maybe winters, deer pressure and muirburn have all even bears!’) and social (‘the idea of a community challenged the establishment of the new woods, but woodland appealed’, ‘gifting a valuable asset to the vibrant community asset, they have also ensured a steady trickle of replanting next generation of crofters’). work for the local tree planters! ACT had a strong commitment to retain as much providing recreation and One criticism levelled at the Assynt Crofter of the economic benefit as possible within the Forestry Schemes is that they all focus on native parish. A study202 showed that the forestry woods and with one exception there is no provision education facilities for the establishment grants generated £193,000 to in the schemes for commercial quality timber, from Assynt’s economy, a further £191,000 to Highland References Douglas fir, for example, which has been shown to contractors, with less than £70,000 of the funding local community.’ grow well in the right location even in windswept 202. Community Land leaving the Highlands. Over 15 years, the Farm Ownership and Assynt. The one exception is a scheme where Scots Woodland Premium scheme will bring another Land Tenure: pine has been planted on a suitable site with Activities, Impacts roughly £450,000 into the local economy. The reasonable access. and Outputs: Eight majority is distributed among the grazing Case Studies I. MacPhail, 2003. 74 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences 75

So how does crofter forestry sit next to more way for low intensity cattle rearing, wildlife and traditional uses of grazing land? Trees have been firewood. Tim is no stranger to woodland planted in spaces created by declining sheep management having been warden at Beinn Eighe numbers, but the landscape is still predominantly nature reserve with responsibility for the native pastoral. Efforts have been made to ensure that the pinewoods. Subsequently he managed large-scale forestry benefits livestock management: judicious woodland conservation projects for Highland positioning of some plantation fence lines has Birchwoods. Here he describes the approach they reportedly made sheep gathering easier, and some took to the woodland. crofters point to the shelter and improved habitat, particularly for cattle, that the woods will provide Our smallholding covers the river floodplain and the when the fences come down. There are also risks, first river terrace, with two small lochans and one however. In 2003, a muirburn went out of control kilometre of riverbank. There are about 5 hectares of and entered two adjacent forestry schemes, causing alder woodland, 3 hectares of small sheltered severe damage in one and significant loss of trees in woodland meadows, half a hectare of wetland, and the other. Fortunately both were fully insured so the one larger field (the “winter” field) where cattle have costs of replanting were covered. been regularly grazed. Growth rings on the fallen alder scattered throughout the woodland shows the The North Assynt Crofters were followed by two trees are between 50 and 75 years old, although other township schemes elsewhere in the parish, so there are a few broad-crowned “veterans” that are by 2007 Assynt crofters had created around 1,100 probably much older. hectares of new woods, all native broadleaves and pine. Three private landlords followed and have The first edition Ordnance Survey map suggests added a further 1300 hectares of new woods to the that prior to this the area was mostly unwooded, Great Wood of Assynt, around 1,000 hectares of with only occasional trees along the riverbank. The which have since been taken into community woodland includes small numbers of sessile oak, ash, ownership. Four near-contiguous schemes form a downy birch, rowan, grey willow, hazel, hawthorn, substantial area of new native woods of around 500 elder and bird cherry, although there is no real hectares, and many of the new plantings connect up “shrub” understorey. Bracken dominates in open fragments of remnant woods, so the ecological areas on the drier river terrace, and the floodplain benefits will be significant. Other future benefits woodland has a profusion of bluebells during early the crofters say they expect are shelter for cattle, summer. Two small lily-covered lochans provide By April 2002 a timber-framed and timber-clad Coppice two areas of dense mature alder to sheep, pigs and deer, improved grazing, some timber habitat for frogs, toads, palmate newts and many house had been completed, using a local contractor provide woodfuel for heating the house and to and woodland walks. The Assynt crofters can be species of dragonfly. Badger, stoat, brown hare and and locally-sourced and milled timber. The Clifford improve the ground flora. proud to have bequeathed a valuable asset to future roe deer are also present as well as common lizard, family moved in! Following a site visit by the local Experiment with controlled summer grazing of generations. sloe worm and eight species of butterfly. Forestry Commission Scotland Woodland Officer cattle to enhance the woodland ground flora, and discussions with the Scottish Agricultural (particularly the bluebells). Prior to purchase, the land had been part of a larger College Advisory Service, some simple management Produce beef of known quality and provenance A smallholding by a cattle-ranching enterprise in the process of objectives were set out: for home consumption. Highland river conversion to organic status. We inherited a very Build a post and beam byre for the cattle and to Regenerate woodland over half the area of by Tim Clifford diverse smallholding with a high conservation value. provide space for timber drying, feed storage and woodland meadow. One of our first steps was to carry out a full office facilities. Use cattle to maintain sheltered, open woodland- Tim and Alice Clifford purchased Coille na Fearna inventory of the wildlife, with maps showing the Plant native landscape trees in the winter field edge habitat for butterflies and dragonflies in the in 1998, a smallholding of riparian woods, locations of particular species. The overall aim was along the roadside edge. remaining meadows. meadows and improved grazing on the banks of the to maintain and improve the wildlife interest while Eradicate the bracken and provide a seedbed River Glass near the village of Struy. They have rearing a small number of cattle and building a The first task was to deer fence the garden and the suitable for woodland regeneration through built a home using local timber, and started to house and byre using locally-sourced materials. winter field. I made the fences using reclaimed controlled cattle grazing (and trampling). manage the woodland and pasture in an integrated stobs and hydro pole strainers. Following this, a 76 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences 77

Restructuring Dunnet Forest community management was well received. After Initially 12 hectares of forest was clearfelled by wide consultation Dunnet Forestry Trust was contractors and the roundwood transported to the by Jon Hollingdale formed and a management plan prepared. Funds board manufacturer at Ardersier at a considerable were raised to employ a forest manager and the loss. Since then, felling and thinning work (and Since a Community Trust took on the management process of “restructuring” the forest began - clearing almost all other work) has been done by the of a conifer plantation in Caithness, it has been windthrown areas, and “at risk” stands, and Dunnet Forestry Trust’s forester and forest workers, transformed into a vibrant community asset, restocking them with a mix of conifers and using chainsaws and ATV extraction. The Trust providing recreation and education facilities for the broadleaves. has developed a local market for firewood selling local community. Jon Hollingdale, Forest Manager over 200m3 each year, along with small volumes of for Dunnet Forestry Trust 2003-7, describes what spruce roundwood for jumping poles and pergolas has happened. etc. The 104 hectare Dunnet Forest was planted in the The on-going restructuring of the forest has been large polytunnel was erected for super-drying the 1950s by the Forestry Commission and acquired by mirrored by a restructuring of the meaning and firewood for heating the house. Scottish Natural Heritage in 1984 after it became purpose of the forest - a gradual process of part of the Dunnet Links SSSI. Five limosin-luing cross, heifer calves were transforming an even-aged, low value, conifer monoculture into a multi-age, multi-species purchased and experimentally grazed using electric Since 2003, the forest has been managed by woodland delivering social, environmental and fencing to restrict them to particular areas at Dunnet Forestry Trust, a charitable company with economic benefits for the local community. different times of year. The dense bracken was around 500 community members, which aims to targeted in the late spring and early summer, when ‘safeguard and sustain the forest as a community the bracken fronds were beginning to unfurl, in an asset with rich and varied wildlife, as a place where attempt to control the bracken by breaking up the all may study, respect and enjoy the natural rhizomes. In the later summer and early autumn environment’. the areas of woodland with coarse grasses were targeted in the same way. From late autumn When first planted in the 1950s, drought, exposure onwards the cattle were restricted to the winter field and rabbits hindered establishment and the area where they were fed on organic hay and nuts in was repeatedly replanted. The resulting forest was order to avoid poaching of the wetter wooded areas. dominated by lodgepole pine, Corsican pine, Preliminary observations suggest that the low mountain pine and Sitka spruce - with a few Scots intensity cattle grazing (0.43 livestock units/ha) has pine and sycamore and about 10% open ground. the potential to both reduce the vigour of the Growth rates varied, creating more structural bracken and provide a naturally fertilised seed bed diversity than is usual in conifer monocultures. for woodland regeneration. It is too early to say Together with the sandy soil, easy access and gentle whether it has had any effect in reducing coarse topography, this gave the forest considerable grasses and expanding the bluebell population. potential for recreational development.

The timber frame of a post and beam byre has been As there are few areas of publicly accessible made using local Douglas fir and the byre should be woodland in Caithness, the forest grew in completed before next winter. importance for local recreation and became used as an educational resource for schools and by the No public grants or subsidies were used in the early Highland Council Ranger Service. An EU-funded phases of the project but we are hoping to use new project in the late 1990s upgraded an informal path grants to take forward the cattle grazing and network, and created an all-abilities trail. coppice management within the woodland. We will be monitoring the effects using fixed-point By 2000 some of the stands were reaching maturity photography. and trees were starting to blow over. SNH had little management capacity and a proposal for 78 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences 79

Local volunteers and organised groups, such as the Dounreay apprentices, Caithness Countryside Volunteers and the local Scouts, have helped with tree planting, path building, the tree nursery, pond restoration, control of invasive vegetation and replacing fences.

The Trust was assisted in the early stages by North Highland Forest Trust and the Community Woodlands Association and received funding from public agencies and in-kind goods and services from a number of local businesses. The trust has created 6km of new paths, including an extension to the all-abilities trail, a 2km horse riding trail and a mountain bike “technical trail”.A Making the most of an further 4km of paths have been upgraded with oakwood better bridges, drainage and surfacing. The car park by David Blair has been enlarged, the bird hide renovated, interpretation boards enhanced, and more benches Dunbeag Woodland is 12 ha of steeply sloping and picnic tables have been provided. ancient oak woodland just above the village of Tighnabruaich in Argyll. It was under-planted with The forest is home to over 100 flowering plants conifers by the Forestry Commission in 1963 and (including Scottish primrose), lots of fungi and acquired from them in 1995. David Blair became numerous beasties (notably the small blue custodian of the woods. He had a training in butterfly). The Trust has enlarged wetland areas, permaculture design and a desire to live sustainably, which are particular biodiversity hotspots and but no previous experience of woodland established a tree nursery, growing planting stock management. His primary objective was to from locally-collected seed. restore the ancient Atlantic oak woodland, encourage its natural regeneration and to make best The Trust aims to interest as wide a range of the use of the conifer being extracted from the wood by local community as possible. Two “open days” have learning to use it locally. Here, he tells us more: been held, featuring chainsaw carving, wood- turning, storytelling and a woodland orchestra, each I lived in a tent, a caravan and then a workshop attracting about 400 people to the forest. before finally building a house. Working with my Orienteering events for schools and Scout groups brother Rob, we learned to fell and slab trees with a have been held, and the forest provides a venue for home-made chainsaw mill. Using the timber, we other community activities, including training built the workshop, founded on tree stumps of events for the Caithness and Sutherland Search untreated Sitka spruce. We built a seasoning Team and the Casualties Union. tunnel, carried slabs down out of the forest and stacked them to season. We made picnic tables and As a contribution to the Highland 2007 Year of rustic furniture, built summer houses and stables, Culture, the Trust commissioned a number of and supplied firewood and Christmas trees in the wood and stone sculptures including the very wintertime. After seven years pushing a chainsaw popular (6m long) xylophone. Environmental art mill, I bought a Lucas Mill, which cuts workshops were held, and the forest hosted a visit dimensionally accurate timber and is much more from the Dark Sky Scotland team from the Royal efficient. It is lightweight and easily transportable; Observatory and a performance from the we carry it up into the woodland and mill the logs tePOOKa theatre group. 80 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences 81

where they lie, or close by. Combined with a log Grazing woods in Argyll grandfather planted small groups of conifers chute for extraction, this technology is appropriate through the wood in the 1930s. These trees have by Bob Black of Argyllwoodlanders for the situation and for the scale of woodland now grown up and become a landscape feature, management. The house was constructed entirely though the wood remains essentially native Barrandroman Wood is a moss and lichen-rich out of timber cut from the woodland. It took about woodland. The wood forms part of a 36 hectare woodland of oak, hazel and birch overlooking Loch 2 months of felling, milling and site preparation a enclosure that includes some of the open ground Feochan, just south of Oban. With a history of day to extract the timber and four months to build habitat above. coppice management and grazing, the owner is now the house. When the reclaimed sofa arrived we modifying the grazing regime to ensure moved in and we love it; built from the wood, Up until 2007 Barrandroman was grazed by both regeneration of the trees, promote wildlife and heated by the wood - totally cosy. sheep and cattle with a winter average of around 40 allow continued grazing on the site. ewes and five cows. There could be as many as 60 For six years I collected water every day from the ewes or 20 cows with calf, depending on the Barrandroman is not large, about 20 hectares in all, Eas an Duin burn until we installed a gravity flow amount of available grass. Stock was on the ground though native woodland continues westwards long water pipe which supplied the house and for most of year, though sheep were taken off the loch-side and a conifer forest adjoins it on one polytunnels. A pit toilet, with a fine view over the during lambing from mid April to mid May. Stock side. Above the wood is a mosaic of semi-improved Kyles of Bute, has served well for many years. was also rotated onto other parts of the farm for grassland, heath and young native woodland, mostly Dunbeag is off-grid and, over the years, a renewable some of the time between July and December. This of birch. energy system has developed from a 12 volt solar grazing pattern resulted in well-grazed grassland panel, which could not keep a light bulb on in the and wet heath but also well-browsed and Barrandroman has a long history of management. winter, to a 48 volt micro-hydro / photo-voltaic suppressed seedling trees. worked on buddy benches, picnic tables, storytelling Clues can be found in the ruined enclosure dykes combination which supplies sufficient energy for chairs, outdoor classrooms and stages, living willow and circular charcoal hearths still visible within the power tools and all our basic domestic needs The owner, who is also the grazier, was concerned sculpture, orchards and notice boards. We have also wood. The charcoal hearths are typical of woods (though not all at once). that the mature woodland lacked established tree run workshops in apple tasting and pressing, managed in the 18th and 19th Century to supply regeneration and that sooner or later it would start mushroom cultivation and composting. Michaela charcoal to the iron furnace at Bonawe, near The soil here was very poor. After watching skip- 203 to decline. He was also very aware of the wildlife on and I are now trained to offer Forest School , Taynuilt. loads of garden waste leave the village each week I which is a great opportunity to give children access his farm and had identified areas where scarce established a community composting scheme that is butterflies and moths breed. In particular, there are to the best kind of classroom. The wood is part of a farm that has been in the now processing about 80 tons a year and is good populations of marsh fritillary butterflies and same ownership since 1928. The present owner’s supported by Argyll & Bute Council. The compost, The intention at Dunbeag is to develop a transparent burnet moths, the former a UK rock dust and charcoal have improved the soils and relationship with this woodland where there is Biodiversity Action Plan205 species with a declining a productive organic garden has been established in mutual benefit - a symbiosis. We get what we need population, the latter a scarce species restricted in a clearing created by an electricity wayleave. With to live and the woodland habitat is improved and the UK mainly to the Hebridean islands and to a over 100 fruit and nut trees, lots of soft fruits, restored for all the species that would naturally live few localities on the mainland. polytunnels, chickens, mushroom logs and vegetable here. beds, Michaela and I eat well, preserve plenty and Both species benefit from habitat that is grazed. distribute the excess. It takes people working together to make a The owner had observed that another part of the sustainable future possible. I have been fortunate to farm, from which stock had been excluded for Ecobiz is a small diverse ecological business that have worked and learned with many good people woodland regeneration, had become rank, despite supports Dunbeag. Established in 1996 it has over the years as friends, volunteers,‘Wwoofers’ (an low levels of deer browsing. As a result, the supplied picnic tables, rustic furniture, gourmet organic farm volunteering initiative)204 and References foodplants of the butterfly caterpillars were mushrooms, freshly picked salads and vegetables, employees. becoming scarce. 203. Forest Schools firewood and charcoal. Ecobiz also offers http://www.forest rhododendron control, ecological restoration and Dunbeag has given me place, purpose and asylum, a education.org/fo Barrandroman was entered into a pilot woodland bespoke garden structures, and manages the beautiful evolving relationship and a rich and varied rest_schools.php? grazing scheme in 2007. The aim was to reduce the page=1 composting scheme. Education plays an increasingly lifestyle. I am learning a good living and I love it! grazing pressure within the woodland, and in important role and we have worked with many local 204. World Wide nearby areas of heath and open bracken where Opportunities on schools. Through the eco schools initiative we have Organic Farms regeneration could be expected. Sufficient grazing www.wwoof.org.uk 82 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences 83

Woodland development by new woodland schemes were established in Harris. The Trust has also started to restore remnant native the North Harris Trust Each has been well-designed to enhance the woodland around Loch Seaforth and has surveyed landscape, which is designated for its wildlife and and mapped other woodland remnants as a basis by Steven Liddle scenic values. Many of the woods are close to for native woodland expansion in the future. townships with a few riparian schemes situated on When a pioneering community woodland was in-bye land. Tree species were chosen to suit the planted in North Harris in 1999, some local sites - mostly native species such as downy birch, crofters were sceptical about the project. However, Shelter in Shetland sessile oak, rowan, hazel, common alder, holly, by James Mackenzie when the wider community subsequently purchased juniper, sallows, grey willow and ash. With training of Shetland Amenity Trust the estates where they lived, the experience of and advice, the local residents have become skilled woodland creation gave them confidence to develop in establishment techniques and created high James Mackenzie planted a shelterbelt on his croft the woodland resource. Steven Liddle, previously quality woodlands which provide improvements to in Shetland in 1993 with a grant from Shetland woodland officer for Comhairle nan Eilean Siar, biodiversity and amenity. Islands Council. Here he describes how it was tells the story. planted and its subsequent value, providing shelter The rapid change in attitudes to woodland in for animals and crops. was to be maintained to keep the heath and wetland The purchase of the North Harris Estate by a Harris would not have seemed possible at the turn habitats in a condition favourable to the breeding community trust in March 2003 brought 22,000 of the Millennium. These days however, woodland Shetland has little land suitable for woodland, colonies of scarce butterflies and moths. hectares and 13 townships into community development is at the core of community activity. In because of the large areas of blanket bog and the ownership. In 2006 the estate was enlarged 2007, the North Harris Trust planted two riparian oceanic climate. No part of the islands is further The sheep were taken off but grazing has continued through the purchase of the 3000 hectare Seaforth woodlands at Glen Mhiabhaig and Glen Langadale than three miles from the sea and much of the in- with five Aberdeen Angus Cross cows with calf, Estate, with four more townships. grazing throughout the year. amounting to 18hectares. Since then a biomass bye crofting land fringes the coastline. Most plantation has been created on unused croft land in plantations are less than two hectares in size. There The North Harris Trust were keen to manage the Kyles Scalpay taking a modern approach to the is no semi-natural woodland, but a few isolated Invasion of the better grassland by rushes, thistles estate to its full potential, taking advantage of the traditional “lazy bed” system with the trees planted relict trees of aspen, birch, hazel, rowan and willow and bracken is an ongoing problem. Low intensity spectacular upland and oceanic habitats, and species in four- metre wide beds. The combination of short are found in inaccessible locations. cattle grazing and trampling may slow the spread, such as golden eagles, sea eagles, fresh water pearl rotation coppice and woodfuel plantations but additional cutting and weed-wiping will be mussels and corncrakes. However, years of sheep demonstrates the growth rates that can be achieved Our croft is very small, only 3 hectares, and we undertaken to maintain the grassland area. grazing and sporting estate management had left on typical “black earth” sites and aims to help wanted to see if a small, narrow belt of six or seven little in the way of woodland cover. The one address fuel poverty in the area. metres wide would be sufficient to provide shelter The effect on the habitat will be monitored by the notable exception was the 110 hectare Ardvourlie for livestock and crops. After fourteen years, there is owner and the grazing regime modified as Community Woodland, completed in 2001 with no doubt in our minds that it has proved its necessary. A different owner may well have needed funding from the Forestry Commission and the usefulness, although we were told it would be far help to identify the key species and their habitat Millennium Forest for Scotland Trust. Initially too narrow to be effective. requirements, though after the project is set up some crofters were sceptical about the loss of so habitat monitoring should be fairly straightforward. much grazing to forestry but the forestry fence The belt is in the form of a dogleg and the park made gathering easier and by the time of the within its “knee” measures about 30 x 30 metres. It is hoped that tree regeneration will become community buyout, the trees were well-established The east-west section on the lower ground was established under the initial regime. The cattle are around a network of footpaths. This coincided with planted with common alder and willow in a wetter concentrating their attention on the areas of better the launch of a new woodland grant scheme area, and with downy birch, Japanese larch, rowan, grassland and, in winter, around their feeding areas. targeting the Western Isles and the employment of Swedish whitebeam and one or two wych elm at the However, they move around the whole enclosure, a woodland officer by the local authority to help drier end. Where the ground rises on the north- maintaining clearly defined tracks through the with education, scheme design and delivery on the south axis, the main species is shore pine (of woodland and lightly grazing the less palatable ground. heath, wetland and woodland field layer species. Alaskan origin), with some shrubs on one side and willow, whitebeam and rowan on the other. The The community woodland demonstrated woodland trees were planted with 11/2 metres between trees References as a viable form of land management for the Modern ‘lazy-beds’ prepared for biomass and rows. Initial shelter was provided by windbreak crofting community and proved to be a catalyst for planting on the North Harris Estate 205. The UK Biodiversity Action Plan Photo: Steven Liddle netting, while wire netting augmented the Rylock future activity. Between 2004 and 2007, seventeen http://www.ukbap.org.uk/ fence, to keep the rabbits out. 84 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences 85

The whole belt got a nasty hammering in June area of woodland to over one hectare, to provide Laid After nearly 11 years of hard work the woodland is 2000, when a 24 hour dry westerly Force Ten - more shelter. We are using more land for taking shape, growing well in areas sheltered from by Kenneth MacKenzie Hillcoat basically a prolonged salt storm - blackened most of horticulture and plan to trial short rotation coppice the wind and making progress in the windier areas Shetland’s vegetation. Despite that, most species for biomass and for craft use - a revival in basketry where heather and rock dominated. It has been Having a croft is a great privilege and we thought have thrived and the canopy height is presently 4- having begun in the islands. tremendously worthwhile seeing the woodland for a long time about what to do with our crofts. 5m. Only the southeast corner, which is very develop, but also seeing the wild flowers and birds They had traditionally been used for sheep but the exposed to winds, has a wind-pruned profile and a The shelterbelt needs little management now. In the which were not there before. The birch on the farming was not particularly viable since the land is lower canopy height. first few years the trees required weeding, and a few improved ground are now needing thinned, exposed and windswept and, apart from a few areas needed to be replaced. Some brashing of the inner providing firewood for the winter - and we can see of improved ground, it is mostly rocky peat and Knowing what we know now, and considering what rows of trees has improved access, and a little that we will never want for firewood again! But the heather. is available, our choice of species and provenance judicious thinning will soon be required. The main satisfaction is walking through the trees in the would be somewhat different. We would have used shelterbelt is a haven for birds, with several nesting knowledge that future generations will benefit from With encouragement from Jon Priddy of the then the Alaskan willows Salix alaxensis and S. blackbirds and many migrants using it as a hostelry. a varied native woodland in a part of Sutherland North West Sutherland Native Woodlands Project hookeriana, and the Sitka alder, Alnus sinuata, for We even had a pair of redpolls bringing up families where trees are few and far between. (now the North Highland Forestry Trust) and front line defence, as these species are very wind for two years running. A local beekeeper keeps hives If we can do it here in Laid, it can be done Willie Beattie of the Forestry Commission we and salt resistant and not so prone to dieback as in a glade and we get delicious honey in return. anywhere! decided on planting a native woodland under the their British or European cousins. As for the birch, Crofter Forestry Scheme. Three crofts were put we would choose a more maritime provenance than A new electricity line was installed over the together, with a total of 50 acres. The first planting was available in 1993. shelterbelt a few years ago.“Don’t worry,” said one of of 21,500 trees, mostly birch and oak, took place in Forsinard the linesmen.“When your trees get too high we’ll by Sandy Murray February 1998. We have continued to plant about The park that is in the lee of the belt has a fine mix come back and prune them.” I thought at the time 1000 trees each year, filling in gaps and trying to of grasses and wild flowers. We have mown it for that he was joking, but I might even see the day in I have four west facing crofts, on the east side of establish windbreaks. Later planting concentrating meadow hay for many years and then used it for my lifetime; that wych elm is certainly reaching for Strath Halladale with large apportionments on the species that are doing well, such as alder, back-end grazing. Last year it became an emergency the sky... following the dissolution of a sheep stock club. I also willow, whitebeam and aspen. lambing park for a couple of ewes, and this winter it have shares in two common grazings. All in all, there is home to some small hill lambs. Having reduced is 360 hectares of enclosed land which includes 20 Noticing that that we had most native trees our stock levels significantly we have increased the hectares of arable land, 20 hectares of re-seeded hill, represented we decided to complete the suite and and 83ha hectares of forestry. The remainder is now have all of them growing, as well as many rough grazing. native shrubs. Natural regeneration of birch and especially rowan has been prolific. All along we have I currently run 400 North Country cheviot ewes and been experimenting, trying different species, 22 beef cows and harvest around 2000 Christmas different sizes (we have found that, contrary to trees. I have have also just converted an old mill accepted wisdom, planting a larger tree pays into a Bunkhouse. dividends in the trickier spots in the heather) and learning from the many mistakes made at the At the time of the Crofter Forestry Bill, I was beginning when many trees were planted in the employed as a Crofting Development Officer with wrong places. The initial planting was made in a Caithness and Sutherland Enterprise. With a remit grid at some 3 metre intervals, a mistake which at covering crofter forestry, I felt that the best way of least showed us the good and bad spots. gaining practical experience was to start with my Subsequent planting has been in tight groups. We own croft. have also learned the need to burn off the heather and to make a good windbreak along the south and I started with a 1 hectare shelterbelt with CCAGS west sides of the woodland. Various fertilizers have assistance, followed the next year by a 24 hectare been tried but none beats the traditional seaweed, plantation of conifers under the Woodland Grant which is in good supply as the crofts run down to Scheme. After deer- fencing 50 hectares of hill I Loch Eriboll. Some areas require annual fertilizing. 86 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Shared Experiences 87

went on to plant three 2ha blocks of Christmas and grants has seen the biggest phase of tree a high level of grant, without which most people trees and 7hectares of broadleaves - leaving plenty planting in the islands since the beginning of the cannot afford to take on a project of open spaces. After seeing how well they were twentieth century (when wealthy landowners and huge quantities of hard work and doing (and receiving a “Scotland’s Finest Woodland planted around their large houses). enthusiasm Award”) I had the bug! The reasons for planting are varied but include In such exposed maritime conditions, there is just I went on over the years to plant a further 7 shelter, for people and livestock, screening and no leeway for cutting corners, so the amount of shelterbelts (from 0.1ha to 5ha), carried out privacy, wildlife interests and variety. Significant time and money put into schemes is proportionally amenity tree planting under the Countryside economic benefits are rarely assumed here, although high. On the plus side, Orkney has large amounts Premium Scheme, established a further three blocks there are definite opportunities for small-scale of rich, fertile soil and it appears that good ground of Christmas trees, a 3 hectare regeneration scheme sustainable use of wood for fuel and craft work. conditions go some way towards mitigating the and more broadleaved planting around the lambing The majority of Orkney’s new woodlands are affects of our salt laden gales, short, cool growing park. planted on private land by farmers and other season and the large variation in day length between landowners, by community groups, schoolchildren the seasons. The most important factor of all is, I have enjoyed my venture into forestry and feel that and even monks! Sites are generally small, often 0.5 without a doubt, the people involved. Their passion it has been of great benefit to my crofting activities hectare or less. There seems to be little desire in the and commitment is clearly the most essential and to the Strath. It has increased the diversity of islands to plant huge woodlands and this is ingredient of all! habitat and enhanced the environment, not to understandable given the love for the beautiful, mention the provision of shelter for the stock and open landscape that most residents have. Over the past ten years 100 new woodlands, income from the Christmas trees. It would not have amounting to about 60 ha, have been planted and happened without the grant assistance. I have not The project has always concentrated on encouraging ten mature woods brought into management. The finished yet and am now looking at funding from appropriate species on appropriate sites. Ideally, all project has advised many hundreds of people. It the new Scottish Rural Development Programme planting stock would be grown on the islands and, may not sound like much but a high proportion of for the next project. indeed, there are a number of good, small-scale, the population have, during that time, been involved usually part-time growers on the islands. However, in some aspects of tree care and planting. As a to obtain the volume of plants, the range of species result, there is now a confidence and belief in the Orkney Woodland Group and a keen price, many plants are brought into the community that there are ways to make trees thrive by Jenny Taylor islands. Local seed is sent to a north-of-Scotland here. Skills are developing and being passed on nursery, so that genetically native stock can be from neighbour to neighbour, from generation to Orkney conjures up many different images - returned to the islands. generation. People rarely now say ‘Trees won’t grow standing stones, windswept cliffs, lush farmland, in Orkney’. abundant wildlife and whisky ... but perhaps Some sites are unpredictable, and the advice of the ‘woodlands’ comes pretty far down the list. Orkney Woodland Project has not always been Orkney Woodland Group consists of representatives Nevertheless, there are many small woodlands on perfect - there is always more to learn. Feedback from Forestry Commission, the Hoy Trust, Orkney the islands and a great interest and enthusiasm for from the owners of the young woodlands is, Field Club, Orkney FWAG, Orkney Islands Council, planting trees. therefore, essential and always interesting and RSPB, Scottish Natural Heritage and local woodland welcome. owners and nurseries. The Orkney Woodland Group has been active, in a variety of ways, for over 15 years. From its early The consistent ‘essentials’ for successful tree OWP is funded by the Forestry Commission, Orkney days as a discussion group, it has evolved and, since establishment in Orkney seem to be: Islands Council, Scottish Natural Heritage and the 1998, it has been acting as the steering group for Heritage Lottery fund. It is staffed by a part-time a high density of planting, giving mutual shelter the Orkney Woodland Project. The project officer who can be contacted by emailing against the winds provides advice on tree planting and management, [email protected] vigilant and thorough weed control, by chemical assistance with grant applications and works with or mechanical means, to prevent competition schools on all tree-related matters. from grasses and encourage early growth the use of good plants of appropriate species Prior to this, very few new woodlands were being and of local or northern (coastal) provenance created in Orkney, but the combination of advice 88 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Contacts MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Contacts 89

Contacts

Crofting Organisations Highland and Islands Enterprise Councils Forestry and Rural Cowan House Development Organisations Inverness Retail and Business Park Scottish Crofting Federation Highland Council Inverness Lochalsh Business Park The Highland Council The Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group IV2 7GF Auchtertyre Glenurquhart Road Fwag Scotland Limited, (01463) 234171 Kyle of Lochalsh Inverness Algo Business Centre, http://www.hie.co.uk/ IV40 8EG IV3 5NX Glenearn Road, (01599) 566365 (01463) 702000 Perth, Health and Safety Executive http://www.crofting.org/ http://www.highland.gov.uk/ PH2 ONJ Longman House (01738) 450500 28 Longman Road Western Isles Council http://www.fwag.org.uk/scotland/ Longman Industrial Estate Government Comhairle nan Eilean Siar IV1 1SF Sandwick Road The Soil Association (0845) 345 0055 Crofters Commission Stornoway 18C Liberton Brae http://www.hse.gov.uk/ Castle Wynd Isle of Lewis Tower Mains Inverness IV2 3EQ HS1 2BW Edinburgh Scottish Building Regulations (01463) 663450 (01851) 703773 EH16 6AE Scottish Government http://www.crofterscommission.org.uk/ http://www.cne-siar.gov.uk/ (0131) 666 2474 Building Standards http://www.soilassociation.org/forestry Denholm House Forestry Commission Argyll and Bute Council Almondvale Business Park 231 Corstorphine Road Kilmory Institute of Chartered Foresters Livingston Edinburgh Lochgilphead 59 George Street EH54 6GA EH12 7AT Argyll Edinburgh (01506) 600 400 (0131) 3340303 PA31 8RT EH2 2JG http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Built- http://www.forestry.gov.uk/ (01546) 602127 (0131) 240 1425 Environment/Building/Building-standards http://www.argyll-bute.gov.uk/ http://www.charteredforesters.org/ Scottish Natural Heritage The National Library of Scotland Great Glen House Highland Birchwoods National Library of Scotland Leachkin Road Education Littleburn Road George IV Bridge Inverness Munlochy Edinburgh IV3 8NW The Scottish Agricultural College Ross-shire EH1 1EW (01463) 725000 Communications Unit IV8 8NN (0131) 623 3701 http://www.snh.org.uk/ Work King's Buildings (01463) 811606 http://www.nls.uk/ West Mains Road http://www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk/ Deer Commission for Scotland Edinburgh National Archives of Scotland Great Glen House EH9 3JG The Timber Research and Development H M General Register House Leachkin Road (0131) 5354000 Association 2 Princes Street Inverness http://www.sac.ac.uk/ The e-Centre Edinburgh IV3 8NW Cooperage Way Business Village EH1 3YY (01463) 725000 The Scottish School of Forestry Alloa (0131) 5351314 http://www.dcs.gov.uk/ Viewhill Clackmannanshire http://www.nas.gov.uk Inverness FK10 3LP Forest Research IV2 5EA (01259) 272143 Highland Biodiversity Northern Research Station Tel : (01463) 273600 http://www.trada.co.uk/ Highland Biodiversity Officer Roslin http://www.school-of-forestry.org The Highland Council Midlothian EH25 9SY Association of Scottish Hardwood Sawmillers Planning & Development Service (0131) 4452176 Forest Education Initiative http://www.ashs.co.uk/ Glenurquhart Road http://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/ Silvan House Inverness 231 Corstorphine Rd IV3 5NX Edinburgh (01463) 702274 EH12 7AT http://www.highlandbiodiversity.com/ (0131) 3340303 www.foresteducation.org 90 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Contacts MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Contacts 91

The UK Woodland Assurance Scheme Conservation Organisations Offwell Woodland & Wildlife Trust Heritage North 59 George Street Yew Tree Cottage Suites 4&5 Edinburgh Offwell Fourth Floor The Woodland Trust EH2 2JG HonitonDevon Ballantyne House Woodland Trust Scotland United Kingdom EX14 9SD 84 Academy Street South Inch Business Centre Tel: +44 (0)131 240 1419 (01404) 831881 Inverness Shore Road http://www.ukwas.org.uk/index.html http://www.countrysideinfo.co.uk/ IV1 1LU Perth (01463) 797091 PH2 8BW Small Woods Association http://www.heritagenorth.org.uk/ (01738) 635829 Green Wood Centre http://www.woodland-trust.org.uk Community Groups Station Road Volunteer Centre Network Scotland Coalbrookdale Community Woodland Association c/o UnderCOVER Scottish Native Woods Telford 69 St Valery Place 56 Kelburn Street 1 Crieff Road TF8 7DR Ullapool Barrhead Aberfeldy (01952) 432769 Ross-shire G78 1LR Perthshire http://www.smallwoods.org.uk/ IV26 2TD (0141) 876 9555 Scotland (01854)613737 http://www.volunteerscotland.org.uk/ PH15 2BJ North Highland Forest Trust http://www.communitywoods.org/ (01887) 820392 Alba UK-based woodland management certifying http://www.scottishnativewoods.org.uk Main Street Dunnet Forestry Trust organisations Golspie Castlehill Heritage Centre http://www.fsc-uk.org/certification-bodies/ British Trust for Conservation Volunteers Sutherland Harbour Road Balallan House KW10 6TG Castletown Northern Woodheat 24 Allan Park (01408) 633 986 Caithness Highland Birchwoods Stirling http://www.nhft.org.uk/ KW14 8TG Littleburn Road FK8 2QG (07770) 697711 Munlochy (01786) 479697 Scottish Working Woods http://www.dunnetforest.org/ IV8 8NN http://www2.btcv.org.uk/ http://www.scottishworkingwoods.org.uk/ (01463) 811606 www.northernwoodheat.net Reforesting Scotland Forestry Contracting Association 58 Shandwick Place Other Tigh na Creag Machinery ring for conservation-related Edinburgh Invershin World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms equipment EH2 4RT Lairg WWOOF UK http://www.hbsring.co.uk Tel : (0131) 2202500 Sutherland PO Box 2154 http://www.reforestingscotland.org/ IV27 4ET Winslow British Horse Loggers (0870) 042 7999 England Heavy Horses The Native Woodland Discussion Group http://www.fcauk.com/ MK18 3WS Hill Farm http://www.nwdg.org.uk/ http://www.wwoof.org.uk/ Stanley Hill Argyll Green Woodworkers Association Bosbury Trees for Life Gordon Gray Stephens UK Biodiversity Action Plan Ledbury The Park Old Poltalloch http://www.ukbap.org.uk/ HR8 1HE Findhorn Bay Kilmartin http://www.britishhorseloggers.org/index.htm Forres Argyll Alba Trees IV36 3TZ PA31 8RQ http://www.albatrees.co.uk/ Ecolots (01309) 691292 (01852) 500366 The Stockton Cross http://www.treesforlife.org.uk www.argyllwood.co.uk Glasu Kimbolton http://www.glasu.org.uk/ Leominster Butterfly Conservation Forest Harvest Herefordshire Balallan House 58 Shandwick Place Scottish Outdoor Access Code HR6 0HD Allan Park Edinburgh http://www.outdooraccess-scotland.com (01568) 612039 Stirling EH2 4RT http://www.ecolots.co.uk/ FK8 2QG Tel : (0131) 2202500 (01786) 447753 http://www.forestharvest.org.uk/ http://www.butterfly-conservation.org/ 92 MANAGING SMALL WOODLANDS Contacts

Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Chilterns Conservation Board The Lodge Station Road Chinnor Oxon OX39 4HA (01844) 355500 www.chilternsaonb.org

Coed Cymru The Old Sawmill Tregynon Newtown Powys SY16 3PL Tel 01686 650 777 http://www.coedcymru.org.uk/

Walter Segal Self Build Trust http://www.segalselfbuild.co.uk/home.html

Wood for Good http://www.woodforgood.com/

The Gaia Group The Monastery 2 Hart Street Lane Edinburgh EH1 3RG (0131) 557 9191 http://www.gaiagroup.org/

Sunart Oakwoods Initiative http://www.sunartoakwoods.org.uk/