Strategic
Lochaber Forest District Strategic Plan 2009-2013
Click here to begin Strategic plan 2009-2013
Contents
Introduction ...... 3 About Lochaber Forest District...... 6
Section one: strategic context...... 13 Context...... 14 Strategic priorities for Lochaber Forest District...... 16 Forest policy context...... 20
Section two: how Lochaber Forest District contributes to the delivery of the Scottish Forestry Strategy...... 21 Key theme one: climate change...... 23 Key theme two: timber...... 29 Key theme three: business development...... 34 Key theme four: community development...... 39 Key theme five: access and health...... 43 Key theme six: environmental quality...... 46 Key theme seven: biodiversity...... 50
Section three: delivery and monitoring...... 57
Appendices:...... 60 Appendix one: supporting maps...... 61 Appendix two: evaluation of achievements (1999-2006) under previous strategic plan.....67 Appendix three: glossary for forest policy context diagram...... 82 Appendix four: local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes...... 84 Appendix five: portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate...... 86
Using the document This document is principally intended to be read as an online publication and there are several hyperlinks linking readers to the Forestry Commission Scotland website for relevant publications. Please use the Microsoft Word ‘edit: find’ facility to search for specific words.
2 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Introduction
Introduction
Local woodlands act as a catalyst for communities to get involved with projects and volunteering, or simply enjoy the many walking trails, bike rides and peace and quiet that forests offer.
3 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
Lochaber Forest District
Introduction The Scottish Forestry Strategy was launched in October 2006 as the Scottish Government’s framework for taking forestry forward through the first half of this century and beyond. This strategic plan defines how Forestry Commission Scotland, through its operating arm, Forest Enterprise Scotland, will implement the Scottish Forestry Strategy on that part of the national forest estate in Lochaber Forest District. This is a five-year plan starting in 2009 and finishing in 2013. This strategic plan will also provide direction for implementing a repositioning policy that will ensure that the nature and distribution of the national forest estate better reflects its role and purpose. This plan has been amended to reflect the feedback from a formal consultation process during 2008. The summarised consultation responses and the Forest Enterprise Scotland response are both available on the Forestry Commission Scotland website.
This strategic plan will also provide This plan has been amended to reflect the direction for implementing a repositioning feedback from a formal consultation process policy that will ensure that the nature and during 2008. The summarised consultation distribution of the national forest estate responses and the Forest Enterprise Scotland better reflects its role and purpose. response are both available on the Forestry Commission Scotland website.
4 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
The strategic plan is divided into three sections:
Section one: strategic context Section three: delivery and monitoring This section explains how this strategic plan relates This section gives an overview of how Lochaber to other Forestry Commission Scotland policies Forest District will effectively and efficiently deliver and strategies, taking a lead from the Scottish the strategic plan. It includes sections on: Forestry Strategy and the strategic plan for the national forest estate. • the operating principles that underpin all Forest Enterprise Scotland policies, operations and activities Section two: how Lochaber Forest • delivery mechanisms, including District contributes to delivery of repositioning the national forest estate the Scottish Forestry Strategy • the monitoring and implementation process This section describes the context and specific actions that will be undertaken on the national forest estate in the district under each of the seven Impact on environment and equality themes of the Scottish Forestry Strategy: The results of environment and equality and diversity impact assessments of the strategic plan • climate change are available on the Forestry Commission • business development Scotland website. • timber • community development Review • access and health A review will take place towards the end of the • environmental quality period of delivery of the plan. If significant changes are made to the Scottish Forestry Strategy we will, • biodiversity if necessary, prepare a new strategic plan. The baseline figures detailed in the monitoring section of the strategic plan for the national forest estate will be updated and reported on annually with contributions from each district.
5 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Lochaber Forest District
One of the main features of the district is the Water spectacular mountain scenery, including Ben The Great Glen dominates the district and the Nevis, and the way that the forests nestle into the legacy of geological upheaval and glacial action are landscape. Many of the forests are 20th century the lochs and rivers we see today. The shattered plantations of very productive conifers that are rocks along the Great Glen fault have been scoured an important source of timber. These forests by ice and long, deep sea and freshwater lochs are complimented by the ancient semi-natural now remain along its length. woodlands that include the Sunart Oakwoods and the Glengarry Pinewoods both of which are The major water catchments in the district are the internationally important habitats. Great Glen, Glen Garry, Glen Spean, Loch Shiel, Glen Nevis, Glen Hurich, Loch Leven, Arienas and Lochaber is a popular tourist destination and the Aline. A map of water catchments in the district is forests are enjoyed by local people and visitors to available in Appendix one. the area. Some visitors come to walk and to take in the landscapes while others take part in outdoor adventure sports including mountain biking on the Geology and landform world class trails in the district. Maps of the district The district lies in an area subject to intense and the forest blocks are given in Appendix one. geological action. Due to this complex geology faults are a common feature, punctuated by volcanic sills and intrusions that have been scoured Natural environment by millennia of wind, rain and ice. The district contains a particularly diverse range Climate of geological formations, characteristic of the The area is subject to an Atlantic maritime climate south-western Grampian Highlands. The area is characterised by cool, wet winters with few severe famous worldwide among geologists with its many frosts and wet warm summers. The annual rainfall eponymous rock types, such as Kentallanite and is about 2,000 mm/yr. Ballachulish slate. The Parallel Roads of Glen Roy and the Great Glen Fault are well known, and the lavas and granites of Glencoe and Ben Nevis are also very special. Intrusions of igneous granite characterise much of the mainland, mainly on land surrounding the Ballachulish area. Tertiary basalts associated with more recent volcanic activity dominate the geology of the western part of Morvern.
6 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Lochaber Forest District
Soils Landscape Varied geology and landform results in a There is a wide range of physical landforms in the wide range of principally upland soil types. district, from rugged and spectacular mountain Characteristically, soils on the upland plateaux ranges to lower glens, often deeply indented by sea are ironpans and deep peats of very poor lochs. The diverse landscape types are described nutrient status. On lower slopes soils grade fully in Scottish Natural Heritage landscape from low nutrient status peaty gleys to flushed assessments for Lochaber, Argyll and Central surface water gleys and forest brown earths of Region (Scottish Natural Heritage Review 97, 78 good nutrient status. A thin outcrop of Dalradian and 123). These areas vary according to factors limestone runs northeast from the Isle of Lismore such as physical scale, the main types of woodland into Appin and Ballachulish. and agriculture, settlement patterns, building and historic features, and natural heritage. The landscape in the district appeals to both locals and visitors. This asset underpins the tourist industry and contributes to the quality of life for local residents. Forests are key components of some of these cherished landscapes, such as Glencoe and Glen Nevis. Some forests planted many decades ago under different national priorities require changes to integrate with the surrounding land. Parts of the national forest estate in the district fall in three separate national scenic areas. In the south, the Ben Nevis and Glencoe national scenic area encompasses the forests of Callert and Glen Nevis. To the west, the Loch Shiel national scenic area takes in the woodland of Achnanellan and the forests of Glen Hurich and Loch Shiel. Slightly further west the Morar, Moidart and Ardnamurchan national scenic area includes part of the woodland of Ardmolich.
7 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Lochaber Forest District
Biodiversity Conservation management often involves The district contains a range of important partnership working with other agencies and woodland, moorland and mountain habitats. Only owners. We take part in local deer management a small portion of native woodlands remains in groups, and liaise with neighbouring landowners, this area and a number are particularly important tenant farmers and crofters on fencing examples of their type, including the Atlantic requirements, pest control and any third party Oakwoods and their internationally important activities that may affect us communities. Uncommon tree line alpine willow scrub is present in the Glengarry hills. Cultural environment Native woodlands support a distinctive range of wildlife including biodiversity action plan priority species such as. red squirrel (here at the north west Historical context of its range), black grouse, Scottish crossbill, and The historical factors that have shaped the district rare insects such as the chequered skipper and the are typical for much of the Highlands. pearl-bordered fritillary. Deforestation by humans started as long as 6,000 Moorland and upland habitats are widespread. The years ago. Much of the forest was destroyed by the national forest estate contains a number of rare Iron Age and only about 5% cover left by 1500 AD. mosses, liverworts, lichens and fungi. The development of agriculture supported a rural The high mountaintops are also the haunts of rare population at relatively high densities for most of and distinctive breeding birds such as dotterel, the last 500 years. ptarmigan and snow bunting. Loch Garry has Rapid rural depopulation occurred in the 18th been notified as a potential special protection and 19th centuries with the introduction of sheep. area as a breeding site for black-throated diver Later, sporting estates based on deer stalking were and common scoter. developed and remain the dominant land use in Conservation is implemented using a range the West Highlands today. of plans for designated sites, and generally by Expansion of plantation forests began in the 17th following good conservation and silviculture in and 18th centuries. The forest area increased the forest. Plans include management plans for rapidly in the 20th century due to planting by the sites of special scientific interest, habitat action Forestry Commission and, in recent decades, by plans, species action plans and local biodiversity private forest owners. During the 20th century, action plans. recreation and tourism became important and make a significant contribution to the wealth of the area.
8 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Lochaber Forest District
Heritage There are around 800 unscheduled monuments Heritage interest in the district encompasses in the district including charcoal platforms, a historic settlements, past land use and the trees bloomery, corn kilns, previously cultivated land, and woodlands themselves, such as the Sunart and depopulated settlements. The district is an Oakwoods. Scheduled monuments include: important area in which the measure of human influence through the centuries can be seen, • Dun Deardail Hill Fort: vitrified fort researched and explored. • Leanachan Motte: irregular mound rising 5 m above the flood plain of the Demographics Allt an Loin surrounded by an earthen The population of the district is currently bank or ringwork 30 m in diameter and concentrated in the lowland areas and around 1 m in height, with a spread of 2 m the coast, with Fort William containing more • Ballnaselich Burial Cairn: prehistoric burial cairn than 50% of the 19,000 population. In past • Corrantee Mines: underground workings centuries, the population was more widely and associated surface remains of spread throughout the area. an abandoned lead mine • Rubh an Fhaing Dhuibh: oval enclosure on Rhubha an Fhaing Dhuibh • Salen Cairn: prehistoric cairn visible as a grass-grown stony mound, approximately 10.5 m in diameter and 1.7 m in height, with the suggestions of kerbstones round the base • Eorna Cottage Cairn: stony mound measuring approximately 12 m in diameter, and 2.1 m in height • Incised Stone Cranachan
9 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Lochaber Forest District
Economy
Employment Tourism Timber production and associated forest Tourism accounts for 30% of GDP in the district management activities generate a significant and is the largest contributor to economic activity. number of jobs across the region including jobs The national forest estate is an important backdrop in the forest, such as. planting and felling through providing access to the forests, mountains and timber haulage to processing destinations, such as rivers as well as forming an important part of the sawmills and pulp mills. landscape which brings people to the area. The district has 51 full-time equivalent direct Forestry Commission Scotland provides business employees (2009). Other Forestry Commission opportunities and, where there is potential for units operating locally such as Forest Civil competition, we make sure that there is fair and Engineering and Mechanical Engineering Services open process for developing these opportunities. have another seven direct employees. Contract There are some very successful local examples in operations and timber haulage probably double tourism, such as Nevis Range. Many other local the total figure of jobs dependent on Forest businesses derive benefits from visitors recreating Enterprise Scotland in the district. The local private in the forests. The UCI Mountain Bike World Cup sector forest industry is also a significant employer. and World Championship events attract large numbers of spectators, competitors and their The forests also provide a large resource for support teams to Fort William and the surrounding informal recreation and organised events that help area. This generates business for hotels, B&B and bring people to the area, such as mountain biking. shops estimated at £2.5 million in 2007. These visitors generate expenditure and help sustain local jobs either directly or indirectly. The national forest estate provides car parking, waymarked trails, viewpoints and interpretation for visitors. These facilities include Forestry Commission Scotland mountain bike trails in Leanachan Forest; Nevis Range gondola service for skiers, sightseers and downhill mountain bike riders; world class paddle sports rivers; forest walks and access to Munros and the West Highland Way long distance path.
10 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Lochaber Forest District
Renewable energy Types of forest and tree species Forestry Commission Scotland leases hydroelectric Most of the forest in the district is of plantation power stations sited in Garrygoulach, Glengarry origin (about 94%) with 6% (approximately 2,700 (1.0 Mw) and Glen Duror. In 2007 a survey ha) native woodland. The most widespread identified potential micro-hydro site in Glengarry species is spruce, covering 51% of the forest area. (X3), and Glean a Chaolais. Other common species are Scots pine at 28%, broadleaves at 12%, larch at 5%, fir and mixed conifer comprising 1% each, while felled trees Forest resource account for the remaining 2%. Woodland covers around 10% of the district, A map of land capability classification is available with Forestry Commission Scotland owning in Appendix one. approximately 20% (compared with 43% national average). The national forest estate in the district The district harvests 150,000 m3/yr of timber comprises 44,000 ha of which 21,000 ha are classed certified by the UK Woodland Assurance Standard. as woodland. The non-woodland area is mostly The timber markets for district timber are as follows: open hill ground between 300 m and 950 m, with • sawlog material (59%) used for construction small areas of leased agricultural grazing land. timber and pallet wood. The majority of this volume is sold to the BSW mill in Kilmallie and James Jones in Mosstodloch • small roundwood (40%) mainly split between chipwood for Nexfor in Dalcross and pulpwood export by sea to Scandinavia. Thinning operations will also produce fencing material in this volume • woodfuel currently accounts for 1% of the volume produced. The most widespread species is Sitka spruce, covering just over 49% of the forest area. Other common species are Scots pine (20%), lodgepole pine (15%) and oak/birch (10%)
11 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Lochaber Forest District
Productive forestry age Most of the forest area, excluding scrub and poor Initial plant spacing is likely to be the most quality woodland (75%) has been established since influential factor in determining timber quality, 1970 and the district has among the youngest and both initial spacing and timber quality are age class structure of any district in Scotland. As a strongly correlated with planting year. Although result, approximately 50% of the growing stock will local policy and practice at the time will have had reach economic maturity in the next 15 years and an influence, it is not unreasonable to expect some this has implications for the district’s production decline in timber quality as the 1970s and 1980s strategy. Over-mature woodland comprises 12% of crops are harvested. the forest area, while mature (41-60 years) covers 19%, young woodland (21-40 years) covers 47%, and young trees (up to 21 years) covers 22% of forest area.
12 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Section one
Section one: strategic context
Wood is an important and renewable resource. Scotland’s forests and woodlands are helping support many rural communities and businesses.
13 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Section one: strategic context
Context
The context in which this plan will be delivered has been set by the success in delivering the previous strategic plan over the past seven years. That plan, published in 2001, included a wide range of local targets set against the national priorities identified in the previous version of the Scottish Forestry Strategy (published in 2000). These are summarised in Appendix two.
Overall, progress has been made on a wide range • our forests have been accredited by the UK of activities with the following key outcomes: Woodland Assurance Standard of sustainable forest management following rigorous external • partnership has brought considerable success audits in 1999 and 2004 and external support, most notably the • every forest in the district is covered by a Mountain Bike World Cup annual event and the long-term forest plan and work flowing from 2007 World Championships these is now creating landscape improvements • community engagement is now an integral and enhancements to nature conservation part of our work: this can be consultation over and heritage sites; the forest plans have also a forest plan or, for example, the formation of underpinned planned harvesting of the timber Sunart Oakwood Initiative that has allowed the resource and the proposals for replanting local community to become actively engaged in • increasing use of long-term contracts has the management of their local forest helped bring security to contractors and timber • recreation provision has been consolidated and customers over what has been the most difficult improved with many existing facilities upgraded, period for the timber market in the history of such as Access in Lochaber paths, or new ones Scottish forestry created, such as the development of new • silvicultural thinning is again being carried out mountain biking facilities at Leanachan in the district after a break during the 1980s and • the national forest estate has increased its 1990s. Current age class structure and risk of contribution to the local tourism economy windblow has limited the availability of suitable through its involvement with major projects such stands, but we thinned over 1,000 ha since the as the Sunart Oakwoods Initiative, the Mountain first strategic plan was published Bike World Cup and Aig an Oir, as well as a full events programme organised throughout the year by District and partner organisation staff
14 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Section one: strategic context
• the proportion of the district actively managed Much remains to be done and new challenges arise as continuous cover forestry, where the next out of the revised Scottish Forestry Strategy and generation of trees regenerates under the the demands of our stakeholders. The proposals for canopy of the existing trees, has increased responding to these and building on the successful from virtually nil to around 5% of the total implementation of the previous strategic plan will forest area. This is set to expand further be covered in Section two. during the life of this Plan as local skill and knowledge in this type of management grows • the national forest estate in the district remains well placed to make a significant contribution to the Scottish Government’s renewable energy targets. Currently, there is one small scale hydro scheme in operation with a capacity of around 1Mw • in recent years, a lack of a new generation of forest craftsmen entering forestry has led to the development of a national apprenticeship scheme. The district employs one apprentice machine operator and two apprentice craftspersons • the removal of exotic tree species in Glengarry Pinewood and Sunart Oakwoods has contributed to the restoration of large areas of semi-natural ancient woodland • biodiversity action plan habitats have been protected and enhanced • biodiversity action plan species have also been protected and in some cases their numbers and distribution improved, such as the chequered skipper
15 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Strategic priorities for Lochaber Forest District
District vision Forests and woodlands Lochaber Forest District is set among dramatic Forestry is not just about trees. People and scenery, from Britain’s highest mountain to its communities are at the heart of the Scottish most westerly point. Much of our work is involved Government’s vision for forestry and the themes with protecting and enhancing this spectacular within which the district sets its targets and landscape that is home to Atlantic oak woods and measures its achievements. This strategic plan sets productive conifer forest. In our woodlands, we out the district’s priorities for achieving its part in care for important animals and plants such as red the Scottish Forestry Strategy. These priorities take squirrel and chequered skipper. Equally welcome account of the views of local people. are people from Lochaber and large numbers of Adapting to changing conditions and helping visitors, who come to take part in walking and to reduce the impact of climate change is an mountain biking. While doing all of that, we also important part of the district’s work. A combination produce high quality timber and help meet the of a wet climate and highly productive forest make challenges of climate change. the district a great place for renewable energy projects. There is scope for wind farms to be set with care in the landscape. The abundance of water makes it an ideal place to produce hydro-power. Forestry Commission Scotland plans to run micro- hydro power projects and has already leased one to a power generating company. With highly productive forests and a major sawmill within 50 km of all our forests, the district is well placed to meet the demands of the timber market. Currently we produce 150 000m3 of timber per annum. As well as producing timber the work of the Forestry Commission Scotland in Lochaber is inherently linked with the prosperity of the area. National and international events such as the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Leanachan Forest attract visitors from around the world, boosting the local economy by millions of pounds. However it is not just large scale business; we also support projects like the Sunart Oakwoods Initiative, which has grown from a community resource to become a catalyst for rural development, tourism and small wood-related industries.
16 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Strategic priorities for Lochaber Forest District
The best way to learn about nature and traditional Many of our forests lie in national scenic areas skills is to get out in the forest. Formal education and are key elements within areas of great is not the ideal environment for everyone and landscape value. Lochaber has recently become we work with secondary school children and a European Geopark and we work closely with unemployed young people in regular hands-on key partner organisations to protect and enhance sessions that teach them valuable work skills in this special place. More recent events have also an active outdoor setting. Encouraging the wider shaped the environment and both local people community to enjoy their local woodlands is a and visitors have a keen interest in local history. major focus in the district and the trails on Cow Hill Through partnership working with the Invergarry overlooking Fort William are popular walking and community the clearance village of Daingean biking routes within easy reach of the town. has been developed into a visitor site with paths and information. The Lochaber Urban Gardens project is a community-run allotment on the national forest Wildlife conservation is a priority. There are estate that provides local people with the chance many rare species in the district, including the to grow their own vegetables. We run a popular only habitat in Britain for the chequered skipper events programme that helps everyone to feel butterfly. Protecting and enhancing priority at home and to keep fit in their local woods. We habitats, such as the Atlantic oakwoods, and caring provide car parks, picnic areas, way-marked trails, for rare flowers, mosses and lichens is a major biking routes, scenic viewpoints. commitment.
17 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Strategic priorities for Lochaber Forest District
District priorities Delivering forestry for people, and rural development benefits where people live The main priority is to practice sustainable forest and work management, which is one of the fundamental Many of the forests in the district are now an operating principles outlined in the national integral part of a burgeoning adventure tourism strategic plan for Forest Enterprise Scotland. This is product and we will work with partners to maintain based on implementation of a range of important and develop this valuable asset. standards and best practice national guidelines, such as Forestry Commission Scotland forests and We have a large number of local regular visitors water guidelines and legislation such as the Health and day visitors for whom we wish to provide a and Safety Act. Our performance is externally high quality recreational experience audited against the Forest Stewardship Council- approved UK Woodland Assurance Standard. Our Managing landscape-scale core areas Forest Stewardship Council certification provides for threatened species and habitats third party confirmation that Forestry Commission Scotland forests are well-managed. The district contains significant areas of Atlantic semi-natural oakwoods and Caledonian Pine We are firmly committed to retaining the high forests. We will manage these important standards required by the UK Woodland Assurance woodlands and promote the management Standard. This requires us to deliver a baseline techniques that we have developed. of good practice in all our work. However, local circumstances and opportunities mean that there are a number of areas where we can also make a Retaining sufficient timber production potential significant contribution to the national delivery to facilitate market stability and development against the Scottish Forestry Strategy: The wide range of soils types, elevation and aspect make the district one of the most silviculturally diverse areas in Europe. However, within this range Safeguarding national forestry treasures we have some of the most favourable tree-growing The district has a wealth of scheduled and areas in Britain where we will establish high quality unscheduled monuments. We will protect the stands for the future through good establishment important sites and work with other agencies and timely thinning practice. such as Historic Scotland to enhance them and to provide information to the public about them.
18 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Strategic priorities for Lochaber Forest District
Using acquisition/disposal, partnerships and Sustaining sufficient regional presence to other arrangements to generate greater scale exercise policy development, exemplar and and pace of change leadership roles The district will take a leading role in expanding We are committed to enhancing landscape the national forest estate in the lowlands providing quality which underpins the area’s tourism and opportunities for carbon sequestration, growing recreational value. This is particularly important quality timber and short rotation forestry. where the forests we manage form significant parts of national scenic areas. They often help provide a sense of place, which we must endeavour to maintain. The district contains a large and diverse range of forests and communities, with a wide range of management options. We will deliver an appropriate balance of economic, environmental and social outputs from each forest through active stakeholder engagement in long-term forest planning. We will utilise these long-term forest plans and management approach to provide exemplars of multi-benefit forestry and demonstrate how sustainable forest management is delivered on the ground.
19 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Forest policy context
The national strategic plan describes the strategic and operational context; monitoring framework and implementation proposals that guide the district plan. The components of the delivery of the district strategic plan are indicated in the forest policy context diagram below. A glossary describing elements of the forest policy context diagram is contained in Appendix three.
Scottish Forestry Strategy UK Forestry Standard 2006 – 2015
POLICIES Forest Enterprise Scotland Forestry Commission framework document guidelines and policies 2008 – 2013
Strategic plan for the UK Woodland national forest estate Assurance Standard 2009 - 2013
Lochaber Forest District Indicative forestry strategies Strategic Plan Forestry frameworks 2009 – 2013 Regional Forestry Forum
Forest plans Thematic plans 10 year plans in e.g. biodiversity, thinning 20 – 30 year frameworks Review
Work plans Monitoring Site specific plans for projects planned up to 2 years in advance of implementation Work programme
PLANNING Business plan Action Rolling 3 year plan
20 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Section two
Section two: how Lochaber Forest District contributes to the delivery of the Scottish Forestry Strategy
Trees have a significant role in reducing the affects of climate change as they naturally lock up carbon.
21 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Section two: how Lochaber Forest District contributes to the delivery of the Scottish Forestry Strategy
Context The issues identified below are arranged under the seven key national themes of the Scottish Forestry Strategy, with analysis and evaluation of their local context. The strategy identifies three outcomes, 12 headline objectives and 69 detailed objectives. Only the most relevant objective and main local issues are included to reflect the strategic nature of this plan.
In identifying issues, we seek to identify key things the international trade in timber as a limiting we can influence. This requires an analysis of our factor because this may not be immediately operating environment, with consideration of obvious. In contrast, we do not mention the details problems and limiting factors. If it is appropriate, of silvicultural improvement when identifying this analysis will sometimes be summarised in the thinning as an issue as we feel these will be plan. For example, in considering our operating assumed intuitively, e.g. thinning improves crops. environment for timber, we include mention of
22 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Climate change is both an opportunity for and a threat to forestry. It is a primary consideration for sustainable forest management and the wood-using sectors, and a cross-cutting issue with links to all other key themes.
Renewable energy The district is relatively well placed to contribute We will continue to make sites available for towards renewable energy targets, primarily due renewable energy projects and work positively with to the prevailing wet and windy climate, and developers. The development of an appropriately- highly productive forestry. There is a small-scale scaled wood fuel market in the district is seen as a hydroelectricity generation plant in operation in major priority, both in terms of the production of Glengarry Forest and other potential sites are renewable energy and in the associated reduction being evaluated. in the timber transport requirement. Two wood chip suppliers operate on the national forest estate A high proportion of the landscape in the district in the district supplying chips to local authority is designated as a national scenic area and buildings, businesses and homes. Support in the management is regulated under The Highland form of leasing sites for processing and supplying Council landscape policy. There are also timber will continue to be explored. significant numbers of eagle territories. Each renewable project will be judged on its merits and local priorities.
23 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Adapting to climate change Flood and catchment management The district will work with business development The potential role of forestry in sustainable flood initiatives (outlined below) to develop a plan that management and wider river basin management involves conscientious actions for the sustainable is being explored through the preparation of river management of the national forest estate in the basin management plans. The process is a key district in an effort to reduce carbon emissions. element of the EU water framework directive, which aims to achieve good ecological and In recent years, changing weather patterns chemical status for most waters by 2015. have resulted in increased rainfall delivered in sustained periods of heavy rain and high winds. Increased rainfall can lead to a corresponding The heavy rain combined with steep slopes results increase in flooding, soil erosion and landslip. in erosion due to fast run off. As a consequence, Riparian woodland enhancement and expansion the infrastructure of forest roads and public will have a role in improving flood and catchment roads is being damaged more frequently by large management, though this will obviously be a washouts resulting in expensive repairs. Particular long-term and supplementary measure. Recent care is taken to make sure that roads and roadside policy on the control of woodland removal will drains are inspected and maintained to prevent also be followed, as will emerging guidance on the flood damage. Inspections are carried out after management of steep slopes. prolonged periods of heavy rain. The wetter and windier climate is less suitable for the growth of trees species associated with dry climates on freely drained land, such as Scots pine. The combination of wind and rain on wet ground also limits the choice of management systems for all tree species, e.g. large areas are unsuitable for thinning. Tree species that favour high rainfall, such as Sitka spruce and Norway spruce, will be used in restocking following clearfell. Thinning will be carried out wherever possible and one of the factors to be considered is the wetness of the ground and its ability to provide a secure substrate for the tree crop.
24 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Carbon sequestration Adopting low impact silvicultural systems At present, finance is available to take this (continuous cover forestry) can increase our acquisition programme forward through funding for contribution to carbon sequestration. These are carbon sequestration and the Forestry Commission being developed in the district leading to greater Scotland woodlands in and around town initiative. use of natural regeneration and longer rotations. These sites may also provide opportunities for growing quality hardwood timber (see Lochaber and There may be potential for acquiring land on the West Argyll hardwood timber plan). lower slopes of the district where the carbon gains from new woodland will be greatest. Most are already heavily wooded especially on mineral soils. While opportunities are being actively sought, acquisitions will be opportunistic.
25 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Renewable energy
Lochaber Support proposals for renewable energy projects on the national forest estate, 1.01 sifting out those that would have adverse impacts on designated areas.
Lochaber Develop wood fuel market by leasing sites and providing timber. 1.02
Lochaber Identify small scale wind-farm projects (particularly those with opportunities for 1.03 local community investment) and especially small-scale hydro electricity schemes.
Lochaber Pursue development of both Forest Enterprise Scotland hydroelectric schemes 1.04 and private sector schemes on the national forest estate.
26 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Adapting to climate change
Reduce the carbon emissions resulting from activities associated with running the Lochaber national forest estate and prepare an action plan for the sustainable management 1.05 of the estate in the district.
Lochaber Address flood damage issues and possible prevention through road development. 1.06
Lochaber Thinning will continue to be carried out, with attention paid to ground saturation levels. 1.07
Flood and catchment management
Lochaber Continue to adopt good practice by carrying out forest road inspections and maintenance. 1.08
Lochaber Plan annually for storm damage to forest roads, including contingency plans 1.09 to carry out emergency repairs to roads.
Lochaber Inspect hazardous trees at regular intervals and make contingency plans 1.10 to clear hazardous and fallen trees
27 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Carbon sequestration
Explore opportunities for new acquisitions where there are opportunities to generate Lochaber new native woods or regenerate and expand existing native woods and growing quality 1.11 hardwood timber.
Lochaber Continue to adopt low impact silvicultural systems. 1.12
28 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Timber supply Current annual timber production is approximately 150,000 m3. The production forecasting system is fairly reliable for predicting timber flows from clearfell but less accurate for thinning, particularly in areas designated for continuous cover.
Most of the existing forests in the district are on The mild, wet climate grows high-yield class Sitka sites that can produce good quality timber, but spruce of a high quality that meets the demands the range of species and options for management of the sawmill industry. The district grows good are restricted. There are some excellent stands quality timber, such as Sitka spruce and Douglas fir of Sitka spruce, larch and Douglas fir that have on suitable sites. Both, especially Sitka spruce, have produced very good quality timber in the past and been and continue to be important timbers for the will continue to do so in the future. There are also, local sawmill in Corpach. The needs of our timber however, examples of poor species and planting customers will be an important consideration in being extended onto unsuitable sites, such as south the choice of species to be grown. coastal lodgepole pine on very poor ground.
29 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Timber quality Timber transport Whereas the climate promotes good tree growth, The district takes part in the Highland Timber the windiness, unstable soils, steep hillsides and Transport Group to address timber transport lack of a thinning history all conspire to restrict the issues in the Highland Council area and liaise with amount of thinning that can be undertaken without other similar groups to find common solutions inducing windblow. The thinning programme to problems. The haulage sector is also well was suspended for almost 20 years until recently. represented through a combination of national However, the current programme is 158 ha/yr. First and local firms operating in the district. thinning of stands is uneconomic when costed at All of the district’s forests lie within 50 km of the operational level, but improves the stand of trees BSW sawmill in Kilamallie. Wood residues from being thinned and prepares it for future thinning. the mill and small round-wood are exported from It is important to make sure that the correct species the pier in Kilmallie. Other small round-wood and seed origins are used in restocking, and that is transported to board mills in central and east natural regeneration and replanting are established Scotland. Many of the forests rely on minor public at densities that produce good quality timber. roads to transport timber to the main trunk roads. Climate change may also affect the ability to grow, The use of these roads by timber lorries leads to or not to grow certain species. complaints from other road users, such as parents sending children to school and local motorists who meet lorries on narrow roads. Alternative routes are sought to alleviate the potential conflict with other road users and to reduce wear and tear on the fragile minor roads, such as the forest road that links the forests on the north shore of Loch Arkaig taking Forestry Commission Scotland timber lorries and other heavy goods transport off the narrow unclassified public road. The district is fortunate in having a main customer for logs close to its forest as this helps to reduce transport costs. The ability to export from the pier in Corpach also takes produce off the public highway.
30 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Hardwood timber Timber in construction There are currently 2590 ha of broadleaved We will make sure that any new Forestry woodland in the district. Management of these Commission Scotland buildings in the district areas has largely focussed on restoring them to use a high proportion of sustainably produced broadleaved woodland through the removal of and, where possible, local timber in construction, exotic tree and shrub species. They have also and use wood-fuel and other low emission been expanded through natural regeneration technologies. into adjacent areas. We will also continue to supply timber to This course of action will continue, however innovative new building projects to encourage the there are also limited opportunities for our use of timber in construction. We have been able hardwood stands to produce utilisable timber to work with housing associations, architects and through appropriate management. In designated local communities through our involvement with native oak woodland for example, thinning is the National Forest Land Scheme to help promote likely to be required to allow regeneration, e.g. similar standards, but there remains more that can Sunart. While quantities produced may be small be done to maximise the use of timber in local in terms of the total production of the district, construction projects. values can be relatively high.
31 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Timber supply
Locaber Produce a sustainable forecast of timber production through sound forest design planning 2.01 matching predictions (currently at 150,000 m³/yr) in subsequent marketing plans.
Timber quality
Locaber Practise lower impact silvicultural systems where site conditions are suitable. 2.02
Locaber Distribute species and selection of correct origins according to sound silvicultural practice to 2.03 provide good quality growing stock to take advantage of our favourable climatic conditions.
Lochaber Establish trees at densities of a minimum of 2500/ha. 2.04
Lochaber Continue to develop the thinning plan to make sure that all suitable stands of trees are 2.05 brought into the thinning programme.
Timber transport
Work with the Timber Transport Forum to make sure that the use of minor public roads is Locaber reduced to the minimum by sharing access with other landowners and avoiding villages 2.06 where possible.
Locaber Where possible move timber by sea as an alternative to road haulage. 2.07
32 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Hardwood timber
Locaber Continue restoration initiatives for broadleaf woodlands. 2.08
Locaber Identify and plant broadleaf sites with the intention of producing 2.09 small scale hardwood timber.
Lochaber Continue thinning the Sunart Oakwoods, producing small volumes 2.10 of oak for local and craft use.
Timber in construction
Locaber Supply timber through our niche marketing initiative to innovative new building projects 2.11 where the emphasis is to maximise the use of timber in construction.
Locaber Encourage the use of timber on new house building projects on national forest estate land 2.12 provided through the National Forest Land Scheme.
33 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme three: business development
Skills Approaches by local businesses seeking to locate on the national forest estate require district staff to evaluate and assess the business risk to the organisation and assess the potential for mutual benefit from new business endeavours.
The district is developing staff business skills The district takes part in the Forestry Commission through training and through staff exchange and Scotland apprentice scheme and currently partnership working. provides employment opportunities for one apprentice machine operator and two apprentice Examples of businesses that take place on the craftspersons. District initiatives include the national forest estate include outdoor adventure employment of a mid-year college/university training such as rafting and white-water canoeing, student as an apprentice. Recruitment of forest canyon walking and paintball games. contractors, forest craftspersons and machine Dealing with visitors is a new task for many district operators continues to be challenging, as there is staff and sustained training and development now relatively high employment in the district. delivers a high quality service.
34 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme three: business development
Timber Tourism The district supplies a total of 150,000 m3/yr of Visitors who view, walk and climb the hills and timber to the timber industry. Kilmallie sawmill glens in the district bring important income is within 50 km of the forests in the district and to hotel and bed and breakfast operators and is ideally placed to receive logs at relatively low retailers. The district is working with local partners, haulage costs. The district manages the forests to such as VisitScotland, Highlands and Islands maintain a sustainable supply of spruce logs to the Enterprise Lochaber and Outdoor Capital of the market. United Kingdom, to build on the district’s natural assets and existing visitor attractions. Small round-wood is exported by sea from the pier in Corpach and taken by road to other The local tourist business community has manufactures such as Norboard, near Nairn. established a destination management organisation and has sought to brand Lochaber Two woodchip suppliers have based their as the Outdoor Capital of the United Kingdom. businesses on the national forest estate. Both are Forestry Commission Scotland’s role is to provide important to the growth of woodchip-fired boilers attractive forests and support services for tourists in the district. Currently two schools, a community and tourism businesses that will sustain and grow hall, Fort William Medical Centre, Fort William the tourist economy. There is a need for training in College and a post office are heated by woodchip. awareness and customer care. Issues that need to be addressed include marketing the Great Glen and the quality of the facilities for visitors. The Great Glen Ways Initiative is a partnership of the agencies managing land in the glen (British Waterways, Forest Enterprise Scotland, The Highland Council and Scottish Natural Heritage) to provide signing and interpretation for visitors on the Great Glen Way. There are also destination management groups involved with visitor management along the Great Glen Way, but at present there is not a strong sense of identity for the whole length of the Great Glen.
35 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme three: business development
Income diversification and contribution to rural development
Diversification of income is vital and opportunities It is important for the district to seek alternative should be identified and tested. This requires sources of income that are appropriate, sustainable engagement with stakeholders to ensure thorough and provide a direct support to the local and productive proposals. Forestry Commission community. Existing very successful examples Scotland provides business opportunities and, include Nevis Range, which operates a gondola where there is potential for competition, we service from the national forest estate and has make sure that there is fair and open process for developed two mountain bike trails that start from developing these opportunities. the top gondola station. The Downhill and FourX world championships are held there every year and There are some very successful local examples in attract large numbers of visitors to the event. tourism, such as Nevis Range. Many other local There are also opportunities to develop highland businesses derive benefits from visitors recreating cattle businesses. in the forests. There are already a number of smaller, often local, timber customers who provide Sunart Oakwoods Initiative has been successful in niche market opportunities and there is potential supporting new community businesses, such as a for further development. We will be open to local forest contractor who also has a firewood and new business ideas, while still retaining robust woodchip business supplying fuel for the centre procedures to safeguard the public interest. heating systems at the local school and post office. The Initiative has provided rural skills training in The district is a major landowner (10% of the land partnership with Lochaber College. area in Lochaber) and is in a unique position to support local businesses that wish to operate on the During the period of this plan, forests with low national forest estate and provide rural employment, scores will be assessed for re-positioning to either either through forestry work or through supporting improve their non-market and/or economic the much larger tourism industry. performance. If they are suitable candidates this will be incorporated at the next amendment of the relevant forest plans. If not, they will be considered for sale to realise money for recycling to other key work areas, including new acquisitions.
36 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Key theme three: business development
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Skills
Lochaber Undertake staff training in business development. 3.01
Lochaber Continue developing our staff business skills via staff exchange and partnership working. 3.02
Lochaber Provide staff training with emphasis on providing service to visitors. 3.03
Lochaber Employ apprentices to provide continuity of well-trained forest craftspersons. 3.04
Timber
Lochaber Manage the forests to sustain the supply of saw-logs to the market. 3.05
Lochaber Continue to support woodchip heating initiatives. 3.06
37 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Key theme three: business development
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Tourism
Lochaber Review and replace facilities on rolling programme to make sure that high 3.07 standards are maintained.
Lochaber Work with partners to secure and improve mountain bike events, trails and facilities. 3.08
Lochaber Work with businesses to produce promotional material. 3.09
Lochaber Work closely with other organisations that promote tourism in Lochaber, e.g. the Sunart 3.10 Oakwoods Initiative and Outdoor Capital of the United Kingdom.
Lochaber Work with other organisations in tourist marketing for the Great Glen. 3.11
Income diversification and contribution to rural development
Lochaber Work with existing local businesses that use the national forest estate for their activities, e.g. 3.12 Vertical Descents and No Fuss.
Lochaber Continually assess the economic potential of the national forest estate. 3.13
Lochaber Explore local markets for free range beef produced by the Glengarry Highland cattle. 3.14
38 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Woods in and around towns Many communities lie close to or within forested areas and have become involved in making decisions as to how the forest will be managed. We work with other members of the Lochaber Community Planning Partnership to achieve a co-ordinated service to the residents in the district. We keep local people aware of what is happening in the woodlands through the local media, by talking to members of the communities and attending community council meetings. Close links have been forged with communities such as Glenfinnan, Fort William, Clunes and those in West Ardnamurchan to take forward the Sunart Oakwood Initiative. Affordable housing is in short supply in the district and there are currently over 800 people on the local authority waiting list.
Community engagement We will continue to work with and encourage Member agencies work together and co-ordinate communities to become involved in the their activities to achieve an improving service for local management of their local forests. As communities residents, such as through our continued membership increase their involvement in a forest, we may of the Nevis Partnership. The Partnership was formed also have to increase our input to make sure in 2003 and aims to safeguard, manage and, where that successful and sustainable partnerships are appropriate, enhance the environmental qualities and developed. We also provide support for initiatives opportunities for visitor enjoyment and appreciation to regain woodland skills and knowledge through of the Nevis area. events, training and the provision of information. Sunart Oakwoods Initiative is an exemplar of We will continue to be actively involved in the partnership working that, from small beginnings, has Lochaber Community Planning Partnership. developed into a role model for other communities. The challenge now is to maintain the momentum into the future.
39 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Community ownership Learning Since the start of the National Forest Land Opportunities for engagement with local schools Scheme there have been two enquiries for have been developing rapidly. The concept of the affordable housing near Salen and these are outdoor classroom should increase uptake and will being progressed through the Small Communities remain a key area for continued action through Housing Trust. Land has also been sold to the the Active Schools programme. Staff resources are Lochaber Housing Association. limited, however, the Forest Classroom at Clunes is well used by local schools and the Great Glen Way We are working with an allotment association Rangers. Sgoil na Coille is an outdoor classroom and Highland Council to lease a small area of land used for both community events and schools that at Cow Hill, on the outskirts of Fort William, for was built by local people using locally cut timber. development as allotments as part of the Forestry Commission Scotland woodlands in and around towns initiative. The group will be in a strong Languages position to attract public funding. Gaelic is in everyday use by a significant minority As communities increase their involvement of the local population and is used by Forestry in a forest their aspirations vary from wishing Commission Scotland in publications and on to purchase or lease land to working in close interpretation boards and signs. partnership with Forestry Commission Scotland. District staff have an important role in helping community groups to consider the different options and reach a decision that protects the interests of both parties and provides the best opportunities for appropriate developments and funding.
40 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Woodlands in and around towns
Lochaber Work with community councils. 4.01
Community engagement
Lochaber Apply and share the experience gained in Sunart Oakwoods Initiative. 4.02
Lochaber Support initiatives to regain woodland skills and knowledge through events, 4.03 training and the provision of information.
Community ownership
Lochaber Explore the potential for community ownership by referring community 4.04 groups to the National Forest Land Scheme.
Lochaber Support community initiatives, e.g. Daingean crofting township interpretation trail. 4.05
41 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Learning
Lochaber Host visits by local schools and other education providers to raise 4.06 awareness of woodlands and forests.
Lochaber Work with local schools to enable pupils to use the forest as a means of developing 4.07 their social and learning skills through participation in forest and outdoor activities.
Languages
Lochaber Provide signs and interpretation in Gaelic through the Forestry Commission 4.08 Scotland Gaelic language plan.
42 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Recreation Most facilities in the district are tourist driven, offering both a unique visitor experience and specialist outdoor activities. The gondola service taking visitors up to 2500 ft on Aonach Mor to enjoy skiing, downhill mountain biking and sight seeing offers a unique experience.
More specialist outdoor activities include Wild camping is a localised problem in Glen Nevis mountain bike trails in Leanachan Forest that are and around the lochs in the district, and one that among the best in Scotland. Visitors to the national requires constant attention and liaison with other forest estate also have access to outstanding rivers landowners and the police. for paddle sports, access to Munros and other We will address wider recreational provision spectacular hills and gorge walking. through judicious use of available staff and Some car parks, waymarked trails and interpretation, financial resources. The process of consultation will although serviceable, are in need of investment and serve to identify demands and opportunities. We upgrading to meet current standards. will continue to facilitate sustainable recreational use of all woodlands, but will focus particularly on key sites where there is an identified level of demand for facilities provision (see Tourism).
43 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Making access easier Health Many of the national forest estate woods in the About 50% of the 19,000 population of the district district have recreation facilities including car live in Fort William, with the remainder spread parks, waymarked walks and cycle routes, picnic throughout the wider area. There are limited and areas and viewpoints. Almost all are suitable for a localised areas of social deprivation, but a wide wide range of abilities and many are suitable for recognition of the contribution that the national wheelchair users. forest estate can make to improve general health through exercise. District staff have worked on a Most of the forests are accessed by car, but most number of initiatives to encourage increased use of are poorly served by public transport. Some, the woodland for health benefit, such as the paths such as Glen Nevis, are a short walk or ride for health initiative. Local interaction with health from Fort William. Highland Council core path professionals should be extended. consultations indicate demand for paths in and around Fort William. There will be a continuing challenge to deliver the Scottish Government health agenda more There are continuing opportunities to promote widely throughout the district. It will require the use of the national forest estate as a key social our engagement and active participation with resource. Efforts will continue to encourage use general practitioners, hospitals and community throughout the district, but the key focus will be health workers. on the woodlands close to Fort William and in the Great Glen. We will continue to take an active Events run by the district are often oversubscribed part in current and future partnership initiatives, and there is a clear demand and enthusiasm for particularly with the Sunart Oakwoods Initiative, further organised activities. Within our limited Nevis Partnership and Great Glen Ways Initiative. resources, district staff have promoted the Active Woods programme with a particular link to schools Volunteers have an invaluable role on local to encourage both activities and interest in the community committees and in practical ways by local environment. helping at events and on litter picks and vegetation management to improve and protect habitats. The key issue is to facilitate and, where possible, enhance these opportunities through wider partnerships, including mental health initiatives.
44 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Recreation
Lochaber Provide visitor facilities such as car parks, waymarked trails and interpretation. 5.01
Lochaber Upgrade key sites with high demand for facilities by developing car parks, 5.02 way-marked trails and interpretation.
Lochaber
Lochaber Continue to address localised problems of wild camping. 5.03
Making access easier
Lochaber Work with groups and representatives to improve access 5.04 to as wide a range of abilities as possible.
Lochaber Improve access to woodlands through greater use of public transport. 5.05
Health
Lochaber Work with health providers, e.g. the Paths for Health Initiative and Active Schools. 5.06
Lochaber Develop mental health initiatives. 5.07
45 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Soil, water and air quality We use Forestry Commission Scotland forests and water guidelines to evaluate forest design plans and their impacts on soil, water and air resources to comply with and contribute positively to the EU water framework directive. The directive establishes the legal framework for the protection, improvement and sustainable use of surface waters, transitional waters, coastal waters and groundwater to prevent deterioration and enhance status of aquatic ecosystems.
Large scale or riparian forestry can have a There is also an aluminium smelter and hydro- significant influence on water quality. The scale electricity generating schemes and public and varies from large river catchments to individual private water supplies that are vulnerable to water supplies. The quality of water can be sedimentation and colouration of water. affected by siltation through surface run off, Site planning and consultation with key direct impacts through harvesting machinery, stakeholders has provided valuable information and contamination through pollution from fuels, on riparian issues for inclusion in the oils and forest chemicals. implementation phase. These aspects are particularly important in the By contrast, riparian woodlands contribute district. There are fish farms in almost all of the positively to water quality and the environment larger lochs, and many of the rivers are important for aquatic life, including by stabilisation of fragile spawning grounds for salmon and trout. As rainfall riverbanks and steeper slopes. in the district is relatively high at up to 3000 mm/ yr., run-off is a concern, although rivers and lochs are mostly well buffered.
46 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Landscape Cultural heritage Many of the forests are in national scenic areas There is a very high level of interest in the history and areas of great landscape value and are an of the Highland Clearances and the remains of important component of the district’s mountainous townships both locally and by people with links to landscape. Surveys repeatedly show that the the area. There is a rich heritage of archaeological vast majority of visitors come for the spectacular features, historic woodland and agriculture, ancient landscapes and the district’s forests make a trees, archaeology, wood pasture. The high level significant contribution to the tourist industry of interest means that local community groups are of the area. interested in providing access and interpretation Parts of some forests were planted at a time to visitors and locals. We support local initiatives when landscape value was not given such a high such as Invergarry Community Council’s access and priority, but improvements through the forest interpretation of the township at Daingean. planning and timber harvesting process have increased the contribution of these areas, such as softening the upper margin of Leanachan Forest when viewed from the Commando Memorial on the A82 trunk road. Native woodland restoration has been carried out on a large scale in the oak woods in Sunart and the Scots pine woods in Glengarry. A secondary benefit of native woodland restoration is that it generally improves the appearance of woods and forests in both the internal and wide-scale landscape. We will restructure the forests when felling and replanting coupes are designed and implemented by adding variation through age classes, species changes and the overall shape of forests and their relationship with the natural landform.
47 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Soil, water and air quality
Lochaber Comply with the EU water framework directive. 6.01
Lochaber Minimise the risks of sedimentation or acidification through tight control 6.02 on harvesting in sensitive areas; keeping conifer planting back from stream-sides.
Lochaber Reduce the use of chemicals on operational sites through silviculture. 6.03
Lochaber Restore riparian zones by removing conifers and allowing native species 6.04 of plants to re-colonise.
Landscape
Lochaber Improve and gradually resolve the landscape in national scenic areas and along tourist 6.05 routes, e.g. hard edges in the Great Glen, Glen Nevis and Glen Hurich.
Lochaber Restore native woodland on all plantations on ancient woodland sites 6.06 and other semi-natural ancient woodland sites.
48 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Cultural heritage
Lochaber Manage scheduled monuments in accordance with 10-year management plans 6.07 agreed with Historic Scotland.
Lochaber Work with local groups to protect and enhance the remains of significant townships 6.08 and archaeological features.
49 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Species and habitats The district has a rich heritage of plantation on ancient woodlands extending to over 5500 ha or 23% of the woodland area. We have implemented a policy of restoration to native woodlands where appropriate and to date, over 700 ha have been restored and 2500 ha are under restoration. Significant areas of oak woods in Sunart and Scots pine forest in Glengarry are under restoration. Half of the district comprises open land and supports important species including golden eagle, golden plover and ring ousel. Specific action plans indicate survey, monitoring and habitat management methods to make sure that the habitats compliment the associated priority species.
Cattle grazing has been introduced into our Management of woodland deer is carried out as woodland habitats as a means of managing ground prescribed in the Forestry Commission Scotland flora for invertebrates and woodland grouse, and deer management package and there are local deer the development of naturally regenerating tree management plans for each deer management cover. Using cattle as a technique for managing unit in the district. Deer are culled to achieve the forest brings with it the opportunities to sell population levels that allow successful natural high quality meat to local butchers. The cattle also regeneration, the establishment of planted trees provide additional employment directly though and to allow the development of natural habitats. Forestry Commission Scotland staff. Efficient deer management minimises the damage to trees and habitats while ensuring good animal welfare. Venison that we sell has Venison Quality Assurance certification.
50 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
We are an active member of seven deer management The future forest structure will be designed groups that work together to balance the interests to enhance the prospects for priority species, of members and to manage the deer to achieve normally by adjusting operational practice, such biodiversity improvement and effective woodland as management of the chequered skipper includes management. Sika deer are increasing in numbers and Allt Mhuick Butterfly Reserve, which is managed in spreading throughout the district. partnership with Butterfly Conservation. Additional inputs are also identified and resources are sought, Mink is an exotic species and a serious predator that such as LIFE funding for mink control in the has colonised the district in the past 50 years and Sunart Oakwoods Initiative area (see the district will need a sustained effort to control numbers and conservation plan). Many other species will benefit safeguard vulnerable breeding species, such as water from this work, along with ‘keystone’ species. vole and nesting birds. Non-woodland priority habitats identified in national and local biodiversity action plans, such as raised bogs and upland heath, also need to be protected and enhanced. Invasive species are recognised as a national threat to these natural habitats. Rhododendron and Japanese knotweed, shallon and the natural regeneration of non-native conifers are causing problems throughout the district, as also is grazing from deer and other animals. Invasive species are also a threat to woodland habitats.
51 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Landscapes and ecosystems Locally, work has been carried out to determine the potential for forest habitat networks across the district and this is now influencing long-term forest planning decisions. It is clear that the national forest estate will form critical elements of creating large-scale habitat networks where the existing network of forests is well established. In some locations, they will be the dominant feature of local networks, such as at Leanachan. Some forests already make a positive contribution, such as in the Great Glen, while others will need to be altered to provide critical linkages. Part of this process will be to increase diversity of forest habitat and counter fragmentation while protecting and restoring important open habitat, e.g. bogs and forest/moorland margins and mountain woodland. Habitat networks are thought to be vital to the survival of species that will need to migrate to survive the potential impact of climate change. We recognise the importance of edge zones - transitional/shrubby/mountain woodland and the value of managing these as an important part of the diversity of habitats of forest networks.
52 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Designated sites The district includes ten sites of special scientific interest, three special areas of conservation and two special protection areas. The forests also neighbour other designated sites and have an influence on them. Each is the subject of a management plan agreed and endorsed with Scottish Natural Heritage. Priority habitats include native woodlands, upland heath and blanket bog. There are nearly 5000 ha of plantations on ancient woodland sites. Maps showing the location of national parks, national scenic areas, forest parks and areas of great landscape; and national nature reserves, Natura sites (special areas of conservation and special protection areas), sites of special scientific interest and ancient woodlands is available in Appendix one.
Table 1: Overview of designated sites
Site Class Notified features Ben Nevis SSSI/SAC Mixed Parallel Roads of Lochaber SSSI Geological SSSI Geomorphological Sunart SSSI Mixed Phuiteachain SSSI Biological Leanachan SSSI Biological Garry Falls SSSI Biological Ardgour SSSI Biological Callop and Drumfern SAC Pinewood Ariundle NNR Upland oakwood Sunart SAC Oakwood and upland ashwood Loch Garry SSSI Biological Loch Shiel SPA Biological Ben Nevis SSSI Geological Glen Roy NNR Geological Onich Woods and Shore NNR Mixed
(SSSI = Site of Special Scientific Interest, pSAC = potential Special Area of Conservation, SWT = Scottish Wildlife Trust)
53 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Increasing awareness and improving knowledge There is a strong demand for information about the environment, wildlife and history of the district. A planned approach to interpretation is developing through partnership working. We are providing information through our education and community engagement programme and through interpretive boards, leaflets and the broadcast media.
Geodiversity The national forest estate has an important role in conserving Scotland’s geodiversity, which includes the variety of rocks, minerals, fossils, landforms, sediments and soils, together with the natural processes which form or alter them. Sites of special scientific interest in the district include The Parallel Roads in Glenroy. The district is a member of the Lochaber Geopark Association and we co-operate in providing interpretation and site information.
54 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Species and habitats
Lochaber Survey all habitats in the district to influence the development of forest plans. 7.01
Lochaber Continue to manage deer to achieve biodiversity improvement 7.02 and effective forest management.
Lochaber Control unwanted natural regeneration of exotic species of plants, e.g. rhododendron. 7.03
Lochaber Control the numbers of mink and safeguard vulnerable breeding species, e.g. water vole. 7.04
Lochaber Deploy cattle grazing as a method of managing habitats. 7.05
Landscapes and ecosystems
Lochaber Survey important habitats in the district to influence the future development of forest plans. 7.06
Lochaber Alter existing forests to establish critical ecosystem linkages. 7.07
55 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Key issue What Lochaber forest district will do
Designated sites
Lochaber Maintain management plans for all sites of special scientific interest, 7.08 special areas of conservation and special protection areas.
Lochaber Monitor designated sites. 7.09
Lochaber Manage sites with a view to achieving favourable status in agreement 7.09 with Scottish Natural Heritage.
Increasing awareness and improving knowledge
Lochaber Provide interpretation and information to increase the pubic awareness 7.10 of the biodiversity of the district.
Geodiversity
Lochaber Work with the Lochaber Geopark Association to promote 7.11 and interpret the geological interest in the district.
56 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Section three
Section three: delivery and monitoring
We are continuing to protect, manage and expand Scotland’s forests and woodlands in a way which helps in the fight against climate change.
57 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Section three: delivery and monitoring
Delivery will be based on the creation of a rolling three-year business plan identifying resources required to deliver work programmes identified in forest plans, other local plans and emergent issues. Detailed work plans are prepared for all significant elements of the programme. In sensitive sites, this often requires further consultation with relevant stakeholders. These are normally prepared 18-24 months before actual work commences. Work is delivered in accordance with a series of guidance notes listed in Appendix four, and all delivery adheres to the operating principles detailed in the strategic plan for the national forest estate.
Following approval of the business plan, the work programmes and allocated resources are confirmed with the local staff who then organise the work and monitor delivery against agreed timescales, costs and quality standards. Monitoring forms an integral part of sustainable forest management and is regarded as an essential tool for improving practice. It is in-built into almost every aspect of management from financial to operational, to environmental, to health and safety, to recreational, to landscape, through:
• national policies e.g. UK Forestry Standard, Forestry Commission People Strategy • memoranda and instructions e.g. monitoring of stocking densities according to Forest Management Memorandum four. • Two types of monitoring carried out in the district - formal and informal.
58 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Section three: delivery and monitoring
Formal monitoring is concerned with areas where The results from this informal monitoring have a we have legal, moral or policy obligations to variety of both long and short-term uses, and are a fulfil and often also audited by external parties. useful tool in improving our management skills. Important areas covered under this heading include: They: • monitoring of overall standards (e.g. • are analysed and the recommendations fed back, compliance with forest plans, UK where appropriate, into our planning process Woodland Assurance Standard, etc.) • help to influence future management of the • conservation monitoring forests and aid development of the future • archaeological monitoring work programme and budget planning • health and safety monitoring • can also help shape new local policies and improve existing ones. • business plan monitoring
The repositioning of the national forest estate We also have to monitor against the indicators will continue, with woods of greatest public identified in the Forest Enterprise Scotland strategic benefit retained as part of the estate. Information plan for the national forest estate. These will then about the repositioning policy is contained in be amalgamated across all ten forest districts to the strategic plan for the national forest estate. determine collective progress in delivering against Details of the scoring for woods in the district are the Scottish Forestry Strategy. These results will be contained in Appendix five. published annually at national level. Informal monitoring is concerned primarily with the day-to-day management of the district work programme and is carried out primarily in-house. Informal monitoring include activities such as:
• contract progress • site visits • personal budget monitoring • work programme monitoring • time management.
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Appendices
The use of wood as a fuel will help reduce harmful greenhouse emissions and we are working hard to promote wood fuel developments.
60 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
61 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
62 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
63 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
64 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
65 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 1: To maximise the value of the wood resource Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? To restock all felled areas Yes VPSS planted as first choice. Sitka Yes, the choice as per the approved forest spruce planted in preference to of species will be design plan. Where felled other species to achieve good made giving careful areas are replanted with growth and form. consideration to conifers, species will be the management A reluctance to plant Douglas fir selected to match the site. objectives specified and larch species to avoid deer Where timber production in the strategic plan damage has evolved in the district! is an objective, Sitka and forest design spruce will be favoured plans. as the primary conifer species, as it is generally best suited to the climate and site types of the district and is preferred by the market for sawing into construction timber. Norway spruce, Douglas fir, Scots pine and European larch will also be used to provide conifer diversity. Reduce ingress of sheep. No Sheep ingress and damage to Neighbour liaison, young trees and vegetation is still removal and legal unacceptable in some areas. avenues are being explored.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 1: To maximise the value of the wood resource Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Local and specialised Partial Two wood chip producers, one Yes, continue timber customers will be at Callert and one near Salen, are to explore and supported, particularly being supported and encouraged. encourage the where value can be added production and use to timber in locations such of wood fuel. as Ardnamurchan and Convert existing explore opportunities to Forestry Commission promote the use of wood- Scotland buildings fuel. to wood fuel heating and specify it in all new builds. Heat Forestry Commission Scotland buildings using woodchip to encourage local initiatives and lead by example. Produce the volume of Yes Timber production has been Yes timber as indicated in the within 5% of forecast volume published production forecast, i.e. produce 110,000 m3 in forest year 2005/06.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 1: To maximise the value of the wood resource Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Annual stocking density Yes The minimum stocking density has Yes assessments will be been exceeded at years 1 and 5. undertaken to make sure (2700+). that the correct number (2500) and distribution of healthy live trees occupy a replanted site at the end of the first and fifth growing seasons. Maximise value of the Partial Some progress made. A robust plan will be forest via thinning as per developed based on the district thinning plan. thinning all suitable This plan will be reviewed crops of trees. during 2006/07.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 2: To create a diverse forest resource for the future Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Make sure that all Yes No breaches have occurred. Yes forest operations are Working closely with angling clubs compliant with current and the Fisheries Trust. Forestry Commission Scotland forests and water guidelines. Liaise with other interested stakeholders in the development of fisheries etc. Forest staff will observe Yes Observations have been reported. Yes tree health and record all incidents. A tree health day will be held for all staff on a five-year cycle. Monitoring of the pine beauty moth will be carried out annually and findings recorded. Use only local origin, Yes Very little planting has taken place Yes, planting of native species when as prolific natural regeneration locally sourced replanting with happens on most sites. Local broadleaves will broadleaves. oak seed sources for planting in be carried out Sunart. to introduce/ reintroduce missing species that are associated with a site type.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 2: To create a diverse forest resource for the future Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Boundary fences will Yes The length of deer fence has This process will be regularly inspected been reduced by more strategic continue and the and details recorded fencing. Internal fences have been need for deer fences in the district fencing removed, e.g. Glengarry Hills. between Forestry database that is then used Commission Scotland to produce an annual and neighbours programme of fence reviewed. maintenance. Where deer fences become redundant they will be removed. It is district policy to reduce overall length of deer fences. This policy will be monitored through the fence database held on the geographical information system (GIS). Make sure that all Yes Operations on steep and friable Yes forest operations are sites have been restricted to compliant with current make sure that the soils are not Forestry Commission destabilised. Scotland soil conservation guidelines. Sensitive areas will be specified in the appropriate forest design plan.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 2: To create a diverse forest resource for the future Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? The deadwood resource Partial Deadwood has been retained on Yes, appropriate will be maintained and almost all clearfell sites. In some deadwood will be enhanced. cases, too much small diameter left. deadwood has been left in exposed Creating deadwood sites. in thinnings has been introduced. Monitoring implemented Whole tree harvesting Yes Assessments carried out before Yes, tilting harvesters (WTH) will be the subject WTH undertaken. Only on cable have helped to bring of a recorded assessment. crane sites. more steep sites within the scope of ground based machines reducing the dependence on skyline working.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 2: To create a diverse forest resource for the future Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Deer will be managed to Yes Appropriate management applied Yes maintain populations at to all forests to achieve the desired levels where browsing is at levels of population control. an acceptable level. Impacts will be measured through the monitoring of regeneration, planted trees and semi natural habitats. Management will be carried out by Forestry Commission Scotland wildlife rangers, tenants or contractors, and subject to the prescriptions of the local deer management plan. The district will take part in all deer management groups. Minimum standards for people engaged in deer culling will be DMQ level 2. Review existing habitat Yes Full consideration given. Yes action plans, make sure they are included in relevant forest design plans and make reference to rare and endangered species and their management.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 3: To make a positive contribution to the environment Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? The protection of Yes Good protection achieved. New Yes endangered species and strategic plan and forest design habitats will be recognised plans will highlight positive at all forest planning management to achieve habitat stages. Design plans enhancement and increasing will refer to statutory numbers of action plan species. designations, and action plan objectives will be incorporated into new design plans or at reviews. Unscheduled ancient Yes All sites protected and reported. Yes monuments will be protected during all forest operations, with notable discoveries being recorded and details passed to relevant agencies. The natural heritage data Yes Good records created. Yes, continue to set will be maintained and improve to make updated and reviewed a system that can annually. record sightings etc. over time. The heritage sites will Yes Good records created. Yes appear on the GIS as a theme and will be available to all planned operations and forest design plans.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 3: To make a positive contribution to the environment Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Opportunities to provide Yes Incorporated into forest design Yes forest habitat networks are plans at the reviews. sought. Open space will be Partial Open space and B/L areas created. Yes, make sure that extended following felling. Some conifer regeneration has the management Natural regeneration happened and is controlled objectives are clear. of native species will be although there is a backlog. Transitional open accepted on these areas, space is not always with intervention to the desired outcome. maintain open space for heritage or bio-diversity issues being highlighted. Intervention will either be via cutting out of regeneration on a regular basis or the introduction of controlled grazing.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 3: To make a positive contribution to the environment Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Areas of natural reserves Yes Native woodland restoration has Yes, high priority. will be established been undertaken on a large scale, to encourage the e.g. Glengarry and Sunart. development of natural woodland processes. They are major contributors to the district deadwood policy. The native pinewoods of Glen Mallie, South Loch Arkaig and Glen Loy have also been allocated as areas of potential natural reserve. Plantations on ancient Partial Sites were prioritised and the sites Yes woodland sites (PAWS) will that could be restored successfully be assessed for restoration were cleared of conifer. More to native broad-leaved surveys will be undertaken and woodland. where the PAWS can be restored work will be programmed.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 4: To create opportunities for more people to enjoy trees, woods and forests Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Work with Visit Scotland Yes Joint stand at Mountain Bike World Yes and visitor centre staff in Cup events has worked well. promoting the integration between forest recreation and local tourism action plan. Make sure that permissions Yes A good system that is in balance Yes issued for specialist events with the access legislation. are managed safely and other forest users are informed. Provide school visits in Yes Events held for adults. Close working Yes promoting health and with schools. education. Work with Step it Up Highland in promoting adult health. Make sure that the forest Yes Talks and visits for schools, Yes industry is understood colleges, clubs etc undertaken. locally and that the impacts of timber suppliers and merchants does not have a negative effect on local people, and that the opportunity to see the whole process from forest to mill can be made available.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 5: To help communities benefit from woods and forests Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Make sure that local Yes Yes Yes people are informed of all changes in ownership or major developments of the national forest estate. Assist The Highland Yes Two sites made available at Yes Council, Lochaber Housing Faichem, near Glengarry and Association and Lochaber Onich. Ltd in finding suitable areas for development of affordable housing. Respond positively to Yes Daingean heritage trail. Yes community council requests for community based development land. Judge the merits of all Yes Potential hydro schemes explored. Yes proposed development against the potential benefits to the area as a whole and income generation. Gaelic will be the lead Yes The Gaelic language is Yes language on all Forestry considered when proposing new Commission Scotland interpretation for a recreation signs in Ardnamurchan site, or producing or reviewing and will be an integral recreation publications. component of leaflets and panels.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 5: To help communities benefit from woods and forests Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Endeavour to support all Yes Access In Lochaber (AIL) initiative. Yes projects where there is the potential to improve recreation access linking the public estate with neighbouring landowners. Provide significant and Yes A range of contracts awarded Yes appropriate contracts for a locally and balanced with the need range of forest operations to comply with the public sector that are sized and correctly regarding tendering. timed for local individuals and communities. Advertise locally employment opportunities and provide the prospects for development of forest environment or tourist based enterprises on the estate. Work in partnership Yes High priority. Yes projects such as the Sunart Oakwood Initiative to contribute to wider rural development.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 5: To help communities benefit from woods and forests Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Develop closer links with Yes Meeting regularly with community Yes local communities by council interest groups. Projects meeting regularly with initiated, e.g. Daingean, Tollie, Cow community councils and Hill. interest groups to facilitate sustainable community orientated projects. Contribute to appropriate Yes Mountain Bike World Yes Year of Culture 2007 Championship . events as these are clarified during 2005/06.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous Strategic Plan Maintain an efficient and effective organisation Target description and Target Comments Should this target be planned achievement date achieved updated and carried (yes/no/ forward to new partial)? district strategic plan? Maintain and update a Yes Microsoft Outlook used. Yes district stakeholder’s list to target appropriate individuals, companies and organisations concerning developments in the district. Prepare a business plan Yes Strengthen links to the strategic Yes annually for the following plan and forest design plans to year in detail, and the make sure that the resources for subsequent two years in delivery are sought. outline. This will provide the resources to undertake the operations and deliver the objectives of the district. Connect sub-group to Yes Raised as top priority by staff Yes take follow up action on survey. Action plan agreed and selected topics raised implemented. by all staff, particularly communications between district teams. Maintain a Staff Council Yes Continues. Yes to discuss topics of local nature that effect union members of the district staff.
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Appendix three: glossary for forest policy context diagram:
• Business plan: A three year rolling plan which outlines the financial requirements for delivering the work programme in the district. The first year contains a compilation of the costs associated with the relevant work plans. These are then prioritised against the agreed financial targets, which are set at national level and reflect the settlement from the Scottish Government’s spending review. • Forestry Commission policies, guidelines, etc: These are the various internal Forestry Commission policies and guidance on practices across a wide range of activities e.g. operational practice, Health & Safety issues, estate management, etc. • Forest District Strategic Plan: This plan describes how national, regional and corporate strategies will be applied at a local level. The plan identifies Forest Enterprise Scotland policies and priorities in the district and the rationale behind them. • Forest Enterprise Scotland framework document: The plan sets out how Forest Enterprise Scotland will develop and manage the national forest estate in an efficient and environmentally responsible manner to meet government forestry policies, especially the Scottish Forestry Strategy. • Forest plans: These plans relate to individual forests and groups of woodlands. They describe the woodland, place them in context with the surrounding area, and identify issues that are relevant to the woodland or forest. From these objectives are set, long-term felling and re-stocking plans prepared, and opportunities to improve the woodland for nature conservation and recreation are considered. These individual forest plans are subject to formal consultation processes and have to be agreed with the Forestry Commission’s Conservator. The Conservator is independent of Forest Enterprise Scotland and oversees the promotion and regulation of forestry, in both the private as well as public sector, on behalf of the Forestry Commissioners. • Forestry and woodland frameworks: Local forestry frameworks cover more localised areas than indicative forestry strategies and look in more detail at the opportunities for forest expansion. • Indicative forestry strategies: Indicative forestry strategies are prepared by local authorities and identify areas preferred for forestry expansion and areas sensitive to further expansion in respect to a range of issues such as the landscape, natural and cultural heritage, communities and water quality. • Monitoring: This includes a wide range of informal and formal monitoring described more fully in Section three and in the strategic plan for the national forest estate. • Regional Forestry Forum: Advises Forestry Commission Scotland on the regional implementation of the Scottish Forestry Strategy and provides a regional perspective on the strategy’s future development.
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Appendix three: glossary for forest policy context diagram:
• Scottish Forestry Strategy: This is the Scottish Government’s framework for taking forestry forward in Scotland. It sets out a vision that “By the second half of this century, people are benefiting widely from Scotland’s trees, woodlands and forests, actively engaging with and looking after them for the use and enjoyment of generations to come. The forestry resource has become a central part of our culture, economy and environment.” • Strategic plan for the national forest estate: Defines how Forestry Commission Scotland through its operating arm, Forest Enterprise Scotland, will implement the Scottish Forestry Strategy on the national forest estate. The national strategic plan describes the strategic and operational context; monitoring framework and implementation proposals that guide the district strategic plan. The policies and best practice referred to in the strategic plan for the national forest estate will also be delivered as part of the implementation of the forest district strategic plans. It also provides direction for implementing a repositioning policy that will ensure the nature and distribution of the national forest estate better reflects its role and purpose. • Thematic plans: These include statutory plans e.g. management plans for sites of special scientific interest agreed with Scottish Natural Heritage and scheduled ancient monument management plans agreed with Historic Scotland. There are also local plans for detailing how certain aspects of local management will be delivered and prioritised (see Appendix four). • UK Forestry Standard: This outlines the UK Government’s approach to sustainable forestry in the UK with reference to the European and global protocols for sustainable development. • UK Woodland Assurance Standard: UK Woodland Assurance Standard is a certification standard that reflects the UK Forestry Standard, the guidelines adopted by European Forestry Ministers at Helsinki in 1993, and the Forest Stewardship Council Standard for Great Britain. It provides consumers with independently vetted assurance of quality in respect of the environmental and social implications of forest management. • Work plans: These include operational site plans that are prepared in advance of all major forest operations, i.e. felling, thinning, road construction and re-planting. Work plans draw on forest plans and identify site constraints, risk assessment, opportunities, and areas requiring special protection, etc. • Work programme: This is the work carried out in each financial year, which is mainly derived from the list of work plans that have been approved in the business plan. It will also include unforeseen or emergency work that arises in the year.
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Appendix four: List of local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes
Thematic plans Date Revision Comments produced planned Business continuity plan 2008 2013 Deer management strategy 2004 2009 Emergency and fire plan 2009 annual Plantations on ancient woodland sites 2007 2009 Pollution control and waste management 2005 2010 Recreation strategy 2004 2009 Roads plan 2009 annual Safety policy statement 2008 annual 2009 annual Sales plan 2009 annual 2010 annual Thinning plan 2008 2010 Tree safety management 2007 2012 Workforce plan New plan will be produced in 2010
Management plans Date Revision Comments produced planned Business plan 2009 annual Forest plans various 10 years Scheduled monument plans various 5 years Shooting/fishing management plans various 1 year SSSI management plans various 5 years Allt Mhuic Butterfly Reserve 2005 2010
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Appendix four: List of local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes
Guidance notes Date Revision Comments produced planned Chemical use 2005 2010 Includes strategy for reducing usage Complaints and enquiries 2004 2009 Community Engagement 2005 2009 Communications strategy 2005 2009 Deadwood 2008 2010 Fencing 2006 annual Natural reserves 2005 2010 Permanent Open Space 2005 2010 (planning and managing) Tracks and roads 2004 2009 Shooting leases various annual Surveys (forest inventory) various annual Natural Reserves, Long Term Retentions 2007 2010 and Low Impact Silvicultural Systems Timber procurment policy 2006 2011 Worksite Signs and Diversions 2009 2014 Historic Environment and Cultural 2006 2011 Heritage Strategy in Lochaber Forest District
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Appendix five: Portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Introduction The portfolio analysis of the national forest estate is concerned with the current condition of individual forest design plan units or forest blocks, not our aspirations for them or what we believe their untapped potential might be. Although the scoring system is recognised as being imperfect, it represents a reasonable approximation of the relative strategic importance across our land portfolio. When applying the economic and non-market scoring set out below it is very important that district staff are as objective as possible. The system was developed following piloting work at four forest districts (Cowal & Trossachs, Galloway, Moray, Tay) on the application of the scoring system. This was then tested across all districts in Scotland and then refined or amended in response to feedback. It was further refined following a series of meetings between clusters of neighbouring districts and Forest Enterprise Scotland Management Board members, which also provided a national overview that the array of scores made sense both within and between districts. The final version of the scoring system is set out below. The absolute score achieved by a forest district plan unit is not particularly important, it is the positioning of units relative to each other which is of value in understanding where management time and resources should be best directed for maximum positive effect. Note – we set out to ensure the ratings allow managers to make objective, repeatable assessments based on existing data sets. Inevitably, a few grey areas remain and we flag up that habitat network and landscape ratings will require further definition in due course. (please see appendix one for map to accompany spreadsheet at appendix five)
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Appendix five: Portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Economic scoring Score Harvesting surplus (clearfell and thinning) >£5/tonne profit 10 – based on 2006 market conditions <£5/tonne profit 6 (Note: 10 year horizon for harvesting activity, if harvesting Break even 3 is expected in that period then use best estimate of expected <£5/tonne loss 1 profit or loss/tonne. A block with no potential for commercial harvesting should score 0.) >£5/tonne loss 0 Establishment and maintenance costs Lower than the forest district 4 average (Note: Establishment and maintenance to include all expenditure up to year 10 needed to establish crops. Remember to include Forest district average 2 whole forest design plan issues such as boundary fencing Higher than the forest district 0 maintenance costs.) average
Capital road cost Fully roaded 10 (new and upgrade over next 10 years) < 2 km to build 7 (A block with no potential for commercial harvesting and, 2 km to < 5 km to build 5 therefore, no plans for capital road investment should score 0.) 5 km to < 10 km to build 2 10 km and over to build 0 Other income generation >£250k pa 10 (Notes - other income to include estates development, recreation, £101-250k pa 6 etc. Development opportunities that have a signed option £51-100k pa 3 agreement can be included in the current economic analysis.) £11-50k pa 2 £1-10k pa 1 <£1k pa 0
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Appendix five: Portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring
Score Conservation designations SAC/SSSI >100ha 10 (Note: The presence of the designation is not sufficient to merit a UK HAP > 50% 6 high score. The forest design plan must be positively contributing UK HAP 20-50% 4 to the enhancement of the site condition relative to the notified conservation interest. Area in hectares relates to area in Forest SAC/SSSI 20-100 ha 3 Enterprise Scotland management.) SAC/SSSI <20 ha or HAP <20% 1 No designations or HAPs 0 SAP Species > 5 species 10 (As highlighted in Forestry Commission Scotland biodiversity 4 - 5 species 8 strategy – red squirrel, capercaillie, black grouse, pearl-bordered 3 species 6 fritillary butterfly, chequered skipper butterfly, juniper, Scottish wood ant, Wilson’s pouchwort, twinflower, small cow wheat.) 2 species 3 1 species 1 None 0 Native tree species 51-100% 10 (Note: Native species – this refers to tree species cover of the 21-50% 6 forested portion of the forest design plan unit. Anticipates drive 11-20% 4 for greater reliance on native species from Scottish Forestry Strategy and Environment Peer Review Group.) 6-10% 2 1-5% 1 <1% 0
Legend HAP = habitat action plan, NSA = national scenic area; SAC = special area of conservation; SAM = scheduled ancient monument; SAP = species action plan, SFS = Scottish Forestry Strategy, SSSI = site of special scientific interest; WIAT = woodlands in and around towns initiative
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Appendix five: Portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
Score Woodlands in and around towns (WIAT) Large population (>5000)/ 10 well developed facilities (Note – only woodlands falling into the Forestry Commission Scotland WIAT criteria can score any points.) Large population (>5000)/ 8 minimal facilities
Small population (2000- 4 5000)/well developed facilities Small population (2000- 2 5000)/minimal facilities N/A 0 Community engagement Signed agreement 5 (including schools) User group/active 3 participation
Consultation/information 1 No engagement 0 Recreation >250k visits pa 10 (Note – visitor numbers must be verifiable from counters and/or 101-250k visits pa 8 intercept surveys or be based on sound local knowledge.) 51-100k visits pa 5 11-50k visits pa 3 1-10k visits pa 2 <1k visits pa 1 No visits 0
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Appendix five: Portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
Score Habitat network Significant component 5 (>25%) of an existing core (*Core habitat area defined as regionally significant (>10,000 habitat area* ha), relatively contiguous, contains at least 20% native species in woodland element and/or at least 80% native species in open Component (10-25%) of an 3 land element.) existing core habitat area Contributor to functional 2 connectivity of (or from) the core habitat area or important local habitat network Little or no existing 0 contribution to habitat networks
Landscape National Park – helps create 10 sense of place
National scenic area (NSA) 8 – helps create sense of place Positive backdrop to 5 significant town (>10,000) National Park – positive 3 contributor NSA/Designed landscapes – 2 positive contributor Positive backdrop to town 1 (>2000)/ major tourism route No positive impact in the 0 landscape
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Appendix five: Portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
Score Thinnable 51-100% 5 (Note: Thinnable area – the area of forest which has been 21-50% 3 thinned or is programmed for thinning in the next 10 years. This 5-20% 2 essentially reflects the amount of flexibility available to apply low impact systems and as a consequence deliver non-market <5% 0 benefits.)
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Appendix five: Portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Forest block H+M Est & Roads Oth Total Cons BAP Native WIAT Community Recreation FHN NP/NSA Thin Total Maint income economic designation species tree species NMB score score Callert 3 2 5 1 11 0 2 4 0 1 2 2 8 3 22
Glenrigh 6 2 2 1 11 4 3 4 0 3 3 5 8 5 35
Glen Nevis 6 2 5 0 13 4 5 4 10 5 8 2 8 3 49
Leanachan 10 4 5 2 21 10 5 4 0 3 8 5 8 3 46
Gt. Glen 6 2 2 1 11 4 5 6 8 1 1 5 1 3 34 Cattle Ranch
Mucomir 6 4 5 1 16 4 2 1 0 1 1 3 0 2 14
Glenroy 1 2 2 1 6 10 4 4 0 1 2 5 0 2 28
Corrour 3 0 10 0 13 0 3 2 0 1 2 2 0 3 13
Callop 6 4 2 0 12 10 7 10 0 3 2 5 8 2 47
Glenloy 6 2 10 0 18 4 7 6 0 1 2 5 1 5 31
Gairlochy 6 2 7 0 15 0 3 4 0 1 3 5 1 3 20
Clunes 10 2 10 2 24 4 5 4 0 3 3 5 1 3 28
North Arkaig 6 2 10 0 18 1 5 6 0 5 2 5 1 2 27 Woods
S Loch Arkaig 0 4 5 0 9 6 7 10 0 1 1 5 1 0 31 /Glenmallie
South Laggan 1 2 5 0 8 0 3 4 0 3 2 2 1 3 18
Craig Liath 3 2 5 0 10 4 5 4 0 1 1 3 1 2 21
Drynachan 6 2 5 0 13 0 5 4 0 1 1 2 1 3 17
Glengarry 6 4 0 2 12 6 7 10 2 3 3 5 1 3 38
Ardochy 1 2 5 0 8 3 5 10 0 3 2 5 1 2 31
Lochshiel 6 0 7 0 13 1 5 10 0 5 2 5 8 3 39
Glenhurich 6 0 5 0 11 0 3 6 0 5 1 5 8 2 30
Achnanellan 0 4 10 1 15 1 5 6 0 5 0 3 8 0 28
Drimnatorran 1 2 2 0 5 6 4 4 0 5 2 5 1 0 27
Loch Sunart 1 2 5 0 8 10 7 10 0 5 5 5 1 0 43
Ardmolich 0 2 7 0 9 6 4 6 0 5 1 3 8 0 33
Gean a’Chuilish 10 0 10 0 20 2 3 4 0 3 3 3 8 3 29
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Appendix five: Portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Forest block H+M Est & Roads Oth Total Cons BAP Native WIAT Community Recreation FHN NP/NSA Thin Total Maint income economic designation species tree species NMB score score Glencoe 6 2 7 1 16 2 0 6 0 3 3 3 8 0 25
Bealach 6 2 5 0 13 6 1 4 0 0 2 3 2 0 18
Duror 10 2 5 2 19 6 1 1 0 3 2 2 1 3 19
Brecklett 6 2 2 2 12 3 0 2 0 3 3 3 8 0 22
Lochaline North 6 0 10 0 16 6 1 1 0 1 2 2 0 2 15
Lochaline South 6 2 2 3 13 2 1 1 0 5 2 0 1 2 14
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Appendix five: Portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate
LOCHABER FOREST DISTRICT - PORTFOLIO ANALYSIS SCORING BY FOREST
30
25 Clunes
Forest Leanachan Glen a'Chuilish 20 Duror Arkaig
Mucomir Glencoe
15 Gairlochy Corrour Lochsheil Glen Nevis Glengarry Bealach
ECONOMIC BENEFITS ECONOMIC Callop 10 Cattle Ranch Craigliath
South Laggan Loch Sunart Glenroy
5 Drimnatorran
0 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 NON-MARKET BENEFITS
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Forestry Commission Scotland serves as the forestry directorate of the Scottish Government and is responsible to Scottish Ministers Contact Lochaber Forest District Torlundy Fort William, Inverness-shire PH33 6SW Tel: 01397 702184 Fax: 01397 700179 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland
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The Diversity Team Forestry Commission Silvan House 231 Corstorphine Road Edinburgh EH12 7AT
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Published by - Forestry Commission Scotland - December 2009 © Crown Copyright 2009
All photography from Forestry Commission Picture Library unless otherwise stated Designed by AVC Media Enterprises, for Design and Interpretative Services, Forestry Commission Scotland, Edinburgh