Strategic Plan
West Argyll Forest District Strategic Plan 2009-2013
Click here to begin Strategic plan 2009-2013
Contents
Introduction ...... 3 About West Argyll Forest District...... 6
Section one: strategic context...... 13 Context...... 14 Strategic priorities for West Argyll Forest District...... 17 Forest policy context...... 19
Section two: how West Argyll Forest District contributes to the delivery of the Scottish Forestry Strategy...... 20 Key theme one: climate change...... 22 Key theme two: timber...... 27 Key theme three: business development...... 33 Key theme four: community development...... 38 Key theme five: access and health...... 44 Key theme six: environmental quality...... 48 Key theme seven: biodiversity...... 53
Section three: delivery and monitoring...... 62
Appendices:...... 65 Appendix one: supporting maps...... 66 Appendix two: evaluation of achievements (1999-2006) under previous strategic plan.....72 Appendix three: glossary for forest policy context diagram...... 114 Appendix four: local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes...... 116 Appendix five: portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate...... 117
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
Woodlands can improve healthier lifestyles and bring a boost of urban development across Scotland
3 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
West Argyll 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 West Argyll Forest District. This is a five-year plan starting in 2009 and finishing in 2013.
This strategic plan will also provide direction for This plan has been amended to reflect the implementing a repositioning policy that will make feedback from a formal consultation process sure that the nature and distribution of the national during 2008. The summarised consultation forest estate better reflects its role and purpose. responses and the Forest Enterprise Scotland 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 This section gives an overview of how West Argyll relates to other Forestry Commission Scotland Forest District will effectively and efficiently deliver policies and strategies, taking a lead from the the strategic plan. It includes sections on: Scottish 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 West Argyll Forest • delivery mechanisms, including District contributes to delivery of the repositioning the national forest estate 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 • climate change plan 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 forest district.
5 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About West Argyll Forest District
West Argyll Forest District lies in one of the The population of the district area - about most wooded areas of Scotland. The landscape 50,000 - is low, but this increases the importance is characterised by coastal features, sea and of Forestry Commission Scotland in terms of inland lochs and extensive moderate hills. In local employment in the forestry and tourism forestry terms, much of the land is reasonably industries. We are committed to engaging with fertile and is especially well suited to Sitka local communities and a culture of working spruce, which forms the bulk of much of the together has built up over the years. forests’ tree species. Maps of the district and Maps of the district and the forest the forest blocks are given in Appendix one. blocks are given in Appendix one. Commercial forestry is a key component of the district’s activities, with annual production to rise soon to a steady 500,000 cubic metres/ Natural environment year. About 45% of this is transported by sea to avoid the long road haulage to markets Climate in the central belt and promote the use of more sustainable transport methods. The western parts of the district are characterised by a mild, wet, oceanic climate. Rainfall averages Although the district’s forests are often dominated are, in places, up to about 2000 mm/yr and by spruce, they are rich in cultural heritage and distributed fairly evenly throughout the year. Wind features of conservation interest. More than 1,900 exposure is relatively high; and there is a low known archaeology features reflect this heritage incidence of frost and snow. Inland areas in the and are important in how we manage, interpret eastern part of the district have a distinctly more and protect these forests. Conservation is evident continental climate, with greater temperature in the wide variety of raptor species nesting on the extremes and more sheltered conditions. national forest estate, and the large number visitors drawn to the West Argyll area and Mull to enjoy viewing these bird species. The Atlantic Oakwoods in the district are some of the finest examples of interlinked complexes in West Scotland. Our management of the forests is targeted at expanding, further linking and improving these oakwood and native broadleaved woodland areas, and the important range of bryophytes, vascular plants and insect species that flourish there.
6 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About West Argyll Forest District
Water Soils Much of the district is close to the sea, with many Varied geology and landform has resulted in short catchments draining directly into the sea, sea a wide range of soil types. Characteristically, lochs or Loch Awe. The district also reaches the soils on the upland plateaux are ironpans main Scottish east/west divide, with catchments and deep peats of very poor nutrient status. to the east of Tyndrum draining into the North Soils on lower slopes grade from low nutrient Sea and all water to the west draining into the status peaty gleys to flushed surface water Atlantic Ocean. There are also a number of major gleys. Forest brown earths of good nutrient freshwater catchments. A map of water catchments status are found on the coastal plains. in the district is available in Appendix one.
Landscape Geology and landform There is a wide range of physical landforms in the The district is dominated by metamorphic district, from rugged and spectacular mountain rock forms with numerous geological faults. ranges to lower glens, often deeply indented by These, along with folding and banding of strata, sea lochs. The highest point is around 840 m, result in the distinctive parallel landforms and but the majority of land lies below 450 m, with deep stream gorges in parts of the district. The planting extending from sea level to 500 m in district contains a particularly diverse range of the Glen Orchy area. Most land is described as geological formations and the area is famous upland forest moor mosaic, glen sides, craggy world-wide amongst geologists with its many upland, and upland and coastal parallel ridges. eponymous rock types, such as Appinite and Mull basalts. Craignure Mine in Brenchoillie Forest, S’airde Beinn, Bellochantuy and Tangy Gorges by Lussa Forest are designated sites of special scientific interest of geological importance.
7 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About West Argyll Forest District
Biodiversity Cultural environment The diverse environment contains some rare species and valuable habitats that are considered Historical context to be significant in international terms. The Mid Argyll landscape encompasses Kilmartin In particular, western Scotland is one of the very Glen, which is regarded as an area of world status few regions described in a global context as for its outstanding prehistoric and early historic ‘temperate rainforest’. Remnant native woodlands, archaeology. There is a uniquely rich legacy of especially in the coastal zone, are known as the built heritage found there, with the visible remains Atlantic Oakwoods and are among the most of thousands of years of human occupation. At important in Britain. Atlantic Oakwoods are its centre, Dunadd was the stronghold of the identified as habitat of high importance in the area’s earliest kings until about 900 AD. There European Union’s habitats directive. In a European are hundreds of ancient monuments in the context, they are restricted to the Atlantic coastal existing forest and along the intricate coastline. fringes of Britain, France, Ireland and Spain. They are described in the UK biodiversity action In more recent times, the development of plan as ‘upland oakwoods’. Over 500 species of agriculture systems, the estate system, and the plants and animals are associated with these expansion of plantation forests has resulted in a oakwoods, including 35 species regarded as mixed rural economy of farming and forest. This priorities for conservation in the UK biodiversity underpins the economy and creates much of the action plan. Particularly fine examples exist in landscape appeal of the area. The Crinan Canal is Knapdale, Loch Awe side and around Loch Etive. an important symbol of industrial advancement and remains a working transport monument.
8 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About West Argyll Forest District
Heritage Demographics Argyll has a particularly rich cultural history The residential population density in the district from Mesolithic times. There is an impressive boundary is relatively low. The largest population range of archaeological features on the national is in Oban, which forms the principal service, forest estate. Important evidence of Mesolithic tourism, distribution and business focus for much settlement has been recognised through the of the rural mid-west coast of Scotland and the identification of caves and rock shelters along inner Hebrides. All the main road, rail and sea ferry the raised beach of the Knapdale coastline, crossings converge on Oban as a natural centre. along the Sound of Jura and at Beinn Lora. There are of small clusters of population The district conservation schedule contains surrounding the lower lying coastal zones. over 1900 entries for archaeological features. Notable settlements include Ardrishaig, Some are single entries for complex features, e.g Campbeltown, Inveraray, Lochgilphead, Tarbert abandoned villages, and there are 57 scheduled and Tobermory, all of which are close to national ancient monuments. There are hundreds of forest estate woodlands. A number of smaller further undesignated archaeological sites as settlements are in a forest setting, including well as important native/ancient woodland Cairnbaan, Port Anne, Achnamara, Inverinan, sites and historic trees and woods. Dalavich, Fearnoch, Achinreir and Eredine. Island communities tend to be dispersed into smaller, more isolated communities, primarily along trunk road corridors.
9 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About West Argyll Forest District
Economy Tourism The district’s forests are an important recreation Employment resource for residents, visitors and tourists, although visitor numbers are low compared Timber production and associated forest with many other forest districts. Free access management activities generate a significant on foot, cycle and horse is offered in all of our number of jobs across the region. This includes forests. The focus for recreation provision is jobs in the forest, such as planting and on quiet enjoyment of the forest environment felling, through timber haulage to processing although, exceptionally, organised events such destinations, such as sawmills and pulp mills. as rallying take place. A full events programme In 2009, the district had 98 full-time equivalent is offered each year, most with dual recreation direct employees. Other Forestry Commission and educational aims. The district maintains a units operating locally, such as Forest Civil recreation plan, which is the basis for detailed Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Services review and planning of recreation provision. and Forest Research add to this figure. Contract operations and timber haulage probably Renewable energy doubles the total number of jobs dependent on the national forest estate in the district. West Argyll has had considerable involvement with a range of renewable energy projects, on both The local private sector forest industry is also a the national forest estate and on neighbouring significant employer. The region is deficient of ground, including windfarm, hydro and biomass timber processing capacity and virtually all cut development. The district is well placed to material is exported to mills outside the district make a significant contribution to the Scottish boundaries. The forests also provide a large Government’s renewable energy targets. Currently resource for informal recreation and organised there are two operational windfarms and two events, such as the Mull Rally, which help bring medium-scale hydro schemes in operation people to the area or encourage local people with a combined capacity of around 50 Mw. to get outdoors such as mountain biking and access to natural and cultural heritage sites. These visits generate expenditure and help sustain local jobs both directly, such as wildlife watching/history tour operators and indirectly, such as in shops and accommodation.
10 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About West Argyll Forest District
Forest resource Table one: land use on the national forest estate in the district (woodland, felled, open space, etc)
LAND USE
Agricultural Built/Industrial
Recreation Open Water
Open Land Recreation Agricultural Built/Industrial High Forest Open Water Open Land Transient High Forest High Forest Transient High Forest
Table two: types of forest and tree species
Types of forest and tree species
11 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About West Argyll Forest District
Forest resource Productice forestry age Most of the forest in the district is of plantation The district has relatively young forests, with much origin (about 94%) with 5% (approximately 4460 of the forest area established between the 1960s ha) native woodland. A map of land capability and 1980s. This age profile has implications for classifications is available in Appendix one. the district’s production strategy, with production scheduled to peak around 2026. Over time the Pure conifer forest comprises 85% of the woodland process of restructuring the forest will result in a area in Argyll and Bute (92% in the district). The more even age distribution. Initial spacing (and most widespread species is Sitka spruce, covering timber quality) is strongly correlated with planting 79% of the woodland area. This is in contrast year and although it is not unreasonable to expect with the Scottish average of 47% and reflects some decline in timber quality as the 1970s and a lack of suitable growing conditions for other 1980s crops are harvested, experience to date coniferous species. Scots pine occurs naturally with these crops has shown that the decline in in the north of the district, though most native quality may not be as significant as first thought. woodland is essentially broadleaved in character. Growth rates for Sitka spruce can be extremely high and the average yield class for the district is around 16 (yield class is an indication of the relative productivity of a tree crop, based on approximate maximum mean annual increment (MAI) in cubic metres per hectare. The GB average for coniferous crops is around 12, but yield classes of over 26 are not uncommon). The native woodland resource is dominated by upland birch woods and oakwood. Oak, sycamore and ash woodlands have the best potential for timber production, but their timber production capacity is partially limited by their small extent, variable access and a lack of past management.
12 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Section one
Section one: strategic context
Scottish forestry is helping to make a sustainable contribution to Scotland’s economy. Over 40,000 jobs are supported by the forestry sector in Scotland and the industry generates around £760 million each year.
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 previous strategic plans covering the original West Argyll Forest District and the Argyll part of the former Lorne Forest District. The plans, published in 2001 (West Argyll) and 2004 (Lorne), 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 of activities, with the following key outcomes for each of the former forest districts:
Original West Argyll Forest District
• we remain committed to working with others and • the national forest estate has increased its our partnership has brought considerable success contribution to the local tourism economy through and external support, most notably the Dalriada its involvement with major projects, such as Kintyre Project, the timber transport network for Argyll and Way, Dalriada, and Aig an Oir, and a regular, year- the Kintyre Way round events programme organised by district and partner organisation staff • community engagement is now very much an integral part of our work, whether this is • our forests have been certified as meeting the UK consultation over a forest plan or, for example, the Woodland Assurance Standard of sustainable forest formation of Minard Woodland Trust, which has management following rigorous external audits allowed the local community to become actively in 1999 and 2006. As a result, our timber can be engaged in the management of their local forest. A sold with Forest Stewardship Council certification. full-time community engagement co-ordinator was The Forestry Commission was the first state forest appointed in 2004 organisation to achieve 100% certification, which is an internationally recognised quality assurance. • recreation provision has been consolidated and improved, with many existing facilities upgraded, • all forests in the district are covered by a long- such as at Ardcastle, or new ones created, such as term forest plan and work flowing from these the development of new mountain biking facilities is now creating landscape improvements and at Achnabreck, and Beinn Ghuilean (Campbeltown) enhancements to nature conservation and heritage sites. The forest plans have also underpinned planned harvesting of the timber resource and the proposals for replanting
14 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Section one: strategic context
Original West Argyll Forest District continued
• increasing use of long-term contracts has helped • the proportion of the district actively managed bring security to contractors and timber customers as continuous cover forestry, where the next over what has been the most difficult period for the generation of trees regenerates under the timber market in the history of Scottish forestry canopy of the existing trees, has increased • silvicultural thinning is again being carried out from virtually nil to around 6% of the total in the district after a break during the 1980s forest area and is set to expand further during and 1990s. The current age class structure and the life of this plan. Local skill and knowledge risk of windblow has limited the availability of in this type of management is growing suitable stands, but we have thinned over 1100 • the national forest estate in West Argyll remains ha since the first strategic plan was published well placed to make a significant contribution to the • we have continued the programme of native Scottish Government’s renewable energy targets. woodland restoration work started in the 1990s. To Currently there are two operational windfarms and date over 20% of plantations on ancient woodland two medium-scale hydro schemes in operation sites in the district are now cleared of conifers with a combined capacity of around 50 Mw • a lack of suitably qualified forest workers in the past has led to the development of a very successful apprenticeship scheme in West Argyll. In 2009, the district had nine apprentices – four forest machine operators, four forest craftspersons and one wildlife ranger
15 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Section one: strategic context
Argyll part of the former Lorne Forest District
• partnership working is now an integral part of • the forest design plans have also underpinned our work and has brought considerable success, planned harvesting of the timber resource such as Mull sea eagle viewing, Mull and Iona and the proposals for re-planting Community Trust joint ventures, Morvern • increasing use of long-term or evergreen Woodlands Project, Strathfillan Community Trust, contracts has helped bring security to Glencoe orbital path network, Sustrans routes, etc contractors and timber customers over what • community engagement has grown and several has been the most difficult period for the timber communities are actively engaged in the market in the history of Scottish forestry management of their local forests, such as Aros • the depressed prices in the timber market Park, Lochaline, Crianlarich, Strathfillan, Glen Creran have made it difficult to achieve the thinning • recreation provision has been improved with programme, and the associated benefits of more many existing facilities upgraded, new ones open forests and better timber quality, although we created, such as Scallastle, mountain access have managed to achieve over 90% of our target routes and Fearnoch, and interpretative provision • the proportion of the district devoted to continuous provided, such as Glen Nant, or renewed cover forestry, where the next generation of trees • the national forest estate has increased its regenerates under the canopy of the existing trees, contribution to the local tourism economy through has been increased. Local skill and knowledge signed recreation facilities and an extensive events in this type of management is growing programme, including links with local schools • staff numbers have reduced due to the major • the forests have been certified as meeting the UK decline in timber income, although investment Woodland Assurance Standard of sustainable forest in staff training, improving support systems and management following external audit in 2004 increased delegation have meant that we have still met most of our targets and maintained morale • almost all local forests are covered by a long- term forest design plan. Work flowing from Much remains to be done and new challenges these is now creating landscape improvements, arise out of the revised Scottish Forestry Strategy enhancements to nature conservation and the demands of our stakeholders. The and heritage sites, and stronger links with proposals for responding to these and building communities and other stakeholders on the successful implementation of the previous strategic plan are detailed in Section two.
16 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Strategic priorities for West Argyll Forest District
District vision District priorities West Argyll Forest District lies at the heart The main priority is to practice sustainable forest of one of the most forested and productive management, which is one of the fundamental forestry areas in Scotland. We will continue to operating principles outlined in the national provide rural employment and contribute to the strategic plan for Forest Enterprise Scotland. This is rural development of Argyll. We will do this by based on implementation of a range of important managing the forests as a sustainable resource, standards and best practice national guidelines, delivering a range of benefits to local people and such as Forestry Commission Scotland forests and visitors alike. Our actions and plans will follow water guidelines and legislation, such as the Health relevant guidance on minimising the potential and Safety Act. Our performance is externally effects of climate change. audited against the Forest Stewardship Council- approved UK Woodland Assurance Standard. Our Forest Stewardship Council certification provides third party verification that Forestry Commission Scotland forests are well managed. We are firmly committed to retaining the high standards required by the UK Woodland Assurance Standard. This requires us to deliver a baseline 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 significant contribution to the national delivery against the Scottish Forestry Strategy:
Safeguarding national forestry treasures Many of the forests are now an integral part of a growing local green tourism business, and we will work with partners and stakeholders to maintain and develop this valuable asset.
17 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Strategic priorities for West Argyll Forest District
Delivering forestry for people and rural Using acquisition/ disposal, partnerships and development benefits where people live other arrangements to generate greater scale and work and pace of change We have a large number of local regular visitors We will take an active role in expanding the and day visitors for whom we wish to provide a national forest estate in the Argyll area providing high quality recreational experience. opportunities for carbon sequestration, growing quality timber and short rotation forestry. We will also take an active role in fuelwood supply and Managing landscape scale core areas for local biofuel markets working with other groups threatened species and habitats and organisations to deliver this. We will create and enhance integrated forest habitat networks on a landscape scale through working with neighbours and as a key part of our Sustaining sufficient regional presence to forest design plan process. Priority habitats will exercise policy development, exemplar and leadership roles include those subject to habitat action plans. The Dalriada Project focuses on some of the exceptional rich historic and cultural heritage in Retaining sufficient timber production potential the area, much of it centred around the Kilmartin to facilitate market stability and development area. We will continue to work with communities The reasonably fertile soil types, elevation, and local partners to realise the wider benefits of aspect and high rainfall make the district one of this heritage. the most silviculturally suited areas for several The district contains a large and diverse range of conifer species, in particular Sitka spruce. We are forests and communities, with a wide range of committed to further improving the quality of management options appropriate to the many these crops and expanding this to cover a wider factors involved. We will deliver an appropriate range of species including productive broadleaves. balance of economic, environmental and social outputs from each forest through active stakeholder engagement in long-term forest planning. We will use 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.
18 | 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
Forest Enterprise Scotland POLICIES Forestry Commission framework document guidelines and policies 2008 – 2013
Strategic plan for the UK Woodland national forest estate Assurance Standard 2009 - 2013
West Argyll Forest Indicative forestry strategies District Strategic Plan Forestry frameworks Regional 2009 – 2013 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
19 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Section two
Section two: how West Argyll Forest District contributes to the delivery of the Scottish Forestry Strategy
Scotland’s forests and woodlands are helping support many rural communities and businesses.
20 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Section two: how West Argyll Forest District contributes to the delivery of the Scottish Forestry Strategy
Context The issues identified below are arranged under the seven key 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 For example, in considering our operating key things we can influence. This requires environment for timber, we include mention of an analysis of our operating environment, the international trade in timber as a limiting with consideration of problems and limiting factor because this may not be immediately factors. If it is appropriate, this analysis will obvious. In contrast, we do not mention the details sometimes be summarised in the plan. of silvicultural improvement when identifying thinning as an issue as we feel these will be assumed intuitively e.g. thinning improves crops.
21 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Climate change is both an opportunity 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 West Argyll is well-placed to contribute towards The development of an appropriately scaled meeting existing and future renewable energy wood energy project in the district is a major targets primarily due to the prevailing wet and windy priority. There is real potential for biomass/ climate, and a highly productive forest environment. woodfuel production on Mull, though this needs We are currently involved with a number of to be carefully balanced with our commitments renewable energy schemes, primarily wind and to other major timber users in the area. hydro, and we need to work more proactively We need to strive to sell as much of our produce with others to develop such opportunities. There as near to source as possible and use transport is also a small wood heat market based around methods that conform to Forestry Commission Campbeltown, Lochgilphead and Mull, but further Scotland business development programme development of the supply chain is considered principles and reduce the amount of fossil fuel essential if this market is to develop further. consumed in timber transportation. We also need to take every opportunity to reduce the environmental impact of all our operations, buildings and travel.
22 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Adapting to climate change Although recent guidance suggests that there Our current policy of utilising low input silviculture may be limited impact on our forests with regard and matching the appropriate species to the site type to species choice of our principal productive wherever possible will imply some species change. conifer species, there may be implications for We already appear to be experiencing an increase provenance selection and the prevention of pests of severe storm events, although not yet with a and diseases. There may also be some changes in corresponding increase in wind damage. Flash floods the behaviour of certain key species, such as bird- and washouts of forest roads have increased in nesting activity starting earlier in the year, which can frequency, particularly on some of the more erosion have implications for our management activities. prone and steep ground in the east of the district. Increased windiness and waterlogging of sites may Forest operations will need to be modified to adapt also have implications for increasing wind damage to these issues. Some forest areas may have a role levels. It is also possible that some deforestation in preventing flooding downstream, perhaps by in favour of moorland/open ground restoration enhancing the properties of water retention within will be desirable through increased windiness. them by improving the condition of riparian zones. Fire risk is not anticipated to be particularly high in this area, though we will need to continually monitor updated guidance to allow longer-term species planning and fire protection measures.
23 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Flood and catchment management Carbon sequestration Frequent heavy rainfall episodes and saturated Adopting low impact silvicultural systems soils over metamorphic geology means that most (continuous cover forestry) can increase carbon watercourses are spate rivers and natural erosion sequestration. We are developing these in and land-slip events are not uncommon. Localised the district leading to a greater use of natural flooding in times of spate is experienced in various regeneration and longer rotations, although locations around the district, such as Glen Orchy. there are associated skill resource implications However, given the high annual rainfall of the if we move towards higher percentages of area, these episodes are seldom serious, other more intensive silvicultural types. There is than when combined with high tides and gales. also potential for acquiring land in parts of Increased rainfall may lead to a corresponding the district where the carbon gains from new increase in flooding, soil erosion and landslip. woodland can be made while also meeting other Riparian woodland enhancement and expansion environmental, landscape and social objectives. may have a role in improving flood and catchment management, though this will obviously be a long-term and supplementary measure. Wherever necessary, we will work with partners to implement appropriate catchment management plans and contribute to the development of sustainable flood alleviation schemes in the district. We will need to plan for more intensive flooding events in our bridge, culvert and road construction, with more robust protection measures built in at the planning stage.
24 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Key theme: climate change
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Renewable energy
Maximise the potential for wind farms on or adjacent to the national forest estate with WA due regard to community, planning and environmental concerns in order to help deliver 1.01 government targets for renewable energy.
Proactively seek opportunity to develop at least five small-scale hydro-electricity WA developments on the national forest estate, as identified from the 2007 potential location 1.02 identification exercise, with due regard to community, planning and environmental concerns.
The woodfuel/biomass market is growing, particularly on Mull. Where existing commitments WA allow, we should build on and help facilitate market growth and emerging woodfuel 1.03 enterprises. We will also continue to grow our local firewood sales, both direct to customers and through local firewood businesses.
Any proposals from Scotland’s Environmental and Rural Services for upgrade, rationalisation or development of office facilities should be based on the Building Research Establishment’s WA environmental assessment method and Forestry Commission Scotland business sustainability 1.04 programme principles (Greenerways). Improve insulation and energy use at the Barcaldine depot by revamping the accommodation module.
Adapting to climate change
Utilise the ecological site classification system combined with site survey and climate change WA species trend predictions to make sure that we plant resilient species on suitable sites to 1.05 provide adaptability for the future. This will be reflected in forest plans and detailed site/work plans, supported by local guidance on species selection and native trees and shrubs.
Continue to identify opportunities in existing forests and potential acquisitions for improving habitat networks. Widen this to take a wider scale approach working with Scottish Natural WA Heritage and adjacent landowners and include as a key component of the forest design plan 1.06 process. Complexes of forest blocks, e.g. Loch Etive side, West Loch Aweside and Knapdale will be targeted for this work as design plans are updated.
25 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Key theme: climate change
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Adapting to climate change
Adopt and incorporate the practices identified in the evolving Forestry Commission Scotland WA business sustainability programme (Greenerways) in all our buildings, operations and travel 1.07 patterns, e.g. more telephone and video conferencing, greater use of bio-fuels, shared transport, low CO2 vehicles, etc. Our vehicle emissions will drop 5% year on year.
Flood and catchment management
Comply with the latest Forestry Commission Scotland forests and water guidelines in a WA competent and effective manner. We will audit our operations on production of the 5th 1.08 edition and modify local practices within six months to make sure that we conform with the update.
Work with neighbours, water body management groups and other agencies to implement appropriate catchment management plans. Extra sensitive silvicultural techniques and WA additional site check procedures will be implemented during operations in erosion sensitive 1.09 areas, e.g. Glen Shira and Glen Lochy. We will produce a series of specific guidelines for Glen Shira and implement these during forest operations from 2010.
Carbon sequestration
Seek opportunity to create new woodlands where land acquisition opportunity allows. Encourage natural regeneration in areas identified through the forest design plan process WA and manage these under a continuous cover forestry-type regime. We will introduce a more 1.10 robust monitoring regime by 2011 and will tabulate areas of successful regeneration on an annual basis – on average, we aim to achieve successful natural regeneration on at least 5% of felled site area within 10 years of felling.
26 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
An informed, vibrant and competitive wood processing sector in Scotland is vital to maximise market opportunities for the growing volume of timber reaching maturity. It is vital that growers produce predictable quantities and qualities of timber that meet market needs to sustain continued investment in efficient processing capacity and to realise the carbon benefits from greater use of timber in construction.
Timber supply The current age class structure of the district is Currently 4% of the productive area in the district dominated by crops planted between the mid 1960s is managed under continuous cover/low impact and 1980. As a result, long-term production forecasts silviculture systems. have indicated a rapid increase in the potential Increasing use of continuous cover and natural production to around 0.6 million cubic metres by reserve designations through forest plan revisions 2014, followed by a decline of the subsequent 35 has had an impact on the distribution of yield, but years to a low of 0.3 million cubic metres. However, as far as we can ascertain, no significant impact on the forecast indicates that the current timber harvest timber supply. We do not anticipate continuous of 0.5 million cubic metres is sustainable and our cover or natural reserves to have any significant production strategy is to limit timber supply at a effect on future timber supply. level that can be maintained in the long term. We aim to achieve a broadly normal forest structure for We expect that the reduction in area of commercial the district as a whole, in which all age classes are conifers in favour of ancient woodland restoration, represented equally, in the current rotation. expansion of riparian zones and buffers around native woodlands will have a significant effect on the We have a limited thinning programme covering 3% future productive area. of the non-continuous cover productive forest area in the district.
27 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Timber supply (continued) Timber quality Our current production forecasting methods The high proportion of crops planted during can accurately predict timber yields from the 1970s and 1980s may have implications the traditional clearfell/restock system, but for timber quality, due to wider plant they are less reliable for thinning and areas spacings commonly used at that time. managed under continuous cover, particularly If we are to maintain or improve current timber where natural regeneration is to be utilised. quality and consistency, appropriate species The continued prediction and production choice, provenance and silvicultural regime of consistent and reliable timber supplies will be vital for areas being conventionally to customers remains a core objective. restocked. In continuous cover area and broadleaf areas, appropriate densities of An increasing proportion of future production natural regeneration will also be critical. will be of non-spruce species and we are aware that marketing some of this may be a More rigorous consideration of restock species challenge. Woodfuel uptake may provide a choice will be needed to make sure that the best suitable market for some of this timber. silvicultural match is achieved in the context of the forest plan. The greatest changes will be Many coupes lie on steep ground with poor seen in upland areas where lodgepole pine was access, and even where timber quality is high established using a high fertiliser input regime. returns can be very low or even negative due to As areas are increasingly planted with more expensive harvesting and road/bridge building, ecologically suited species and where natural such as Glen Creran). Over the next 20 years, an regeneration is increasingly encouraged there are additional 478 km of forest road will be needed implications for both timber quantity and quality. to access standing timber and securing adequate resource for this is currently proving a challenge. Achieving 2500+ stocking density for species such as Douglas fir, larch, broadleaves and Scots pine is proving difficult in some forests and we need to find more robust, cost effective solutions to overcome this. There are currently 1233 km of fencing throughout the district and ongoing replacement of this requires significant resources.
28 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Timber transport Hardwood timber Kilmallie is an important, relatively local, market Broadleaves currently account for 6% of the forested for much of the district’s production and there are area and the majority of this are native woodland small processing facilities in Campbeltown and remnants dominated by native species and often Barcaldine, but most timber processing takes place designated as sites of special scientific interest. out with the district. Management of these areas has to-date largely focused on restoration, through removal of exotic tree Our remoteness from timber markets has and shrub species, and expansion, largely through implications for the impact that timber natural regeneration. transport has on the environment. Creating an appropriately-scaled timber processing capacity in We remain committed to this course of action, the district is a priority but there are also opportunities for our hardwood stands to produce utilisable timber through proper There are particular challenges on the islands due to management and we need to investigate the potential the high cost of road and ferry transportation, and we to better develop these woodlands as a future need to expand on limited use of other alternative productive resource. transport methods such as boats and barges. Little in the way of utilisable future productive Considerable progress has been made in recent resource comes from the current native woodlands years in developing alternatives to road transport in the district. Some small scale thinning of oakwood (primarily coastal shipping) and through the areas in Glen Creran and at Strone has been development of a strategic timber transport undertaken. Many logs from these areas have been network to divert timber traffic from fragile rural used for woodworking, such as at Lorne Forest Mill roads and settlements. Much remains to be done at Barcaldine. and we will continue work with local partners to provide additional sustainable transport solutions. A small number of coupes are being planted with We take an active role in the Argyll Timber productive broadleaves and there is scope to expand Transport Group. this further within the limitations of site conditions. In designated native oak woodland, for example, thinning is likely to be required. While quantities produced may be small in terms of the district’s total production, values can often be relatively high. Currently the market for hardwood timber in parts of the district is not well developed or organised, although it is clear that adequate demand does exist. Proper management of these woodlands will depend on further developing suitable local markets.
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Key theme two: timber
Timber in construction Much of the timber we produce may be used in We have been able to work with housing construction, but only limited amounts are used associations, developers, architects and local locally, such as at sawmills on Mull and Lorne Forest communities through our involvement with the Mill produce. We need to find additional ways of National Forest Land Scheme to help promote making raw material more readily available for local similar standards on all land sold for development timber in construction use. purposes. There remains more that can be We will make sure that any new Forestry done to maximise the use of timber in local Commission Scotland buildings in the district use a construction projects. high proportion of sustainably produced and where possible, local timber in construction, and woodfuel and other low emission technologies.
30 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Key theme: Timber
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Timber supply
Produce a sustainable forecast of timber production and smooth our production to match those predictions (currently at ~500,000 cubic metres/yr) in subsequent marketing plans. We WA will maintain our compliance with the UK Woodland Assurance Standard, which will allow 2.01 our customers to gain certification for their products for that scheme and other associated certification schemes, e.g. Forest Stewardship Council.
WA Improve thinning forecast, continuous cover plans and planning processes. We will revise our 2.02 thinning plan in 2009 and 2011 with a view to expanding programmed thinnable area.
Timber quality
Site selection for species and origins (including improved stock) will follow sound silvicultural WA practice to create a quality growing stock at the approved density to take advantage of our 2.03 favourable site/climatic conditions. We will implement and monitor the stocking density assessment process to make sure that we continue to reach these standards.
Pruning, singling and cleaning will be used appropriately to improve quality in natural WA regeneration and productive hardwood establishment areas. In 2010, we will produce a plan 2.04 detailing areas for pruning and update it annually.
Maintain the thinning programme at least at current levels, review it annually and seek WA opportunities to expand it, while observing sensible constraints to make sure that all suitable 2.05 areas are thinned.
Timber transport
Commit to long-term contracts with customers and contractors with a view to reducing costs WA and timber road miles, while encouraging sea transport and other more sustainable timber 2.06 transport options, e.g. rail.
WA Continue partnership working with the Argyll Timber Transport Group with particular 2.07 emphasis on appropriate community consultation.
31 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Key theme: Timber
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Timber transport (continued)
WA Adhere to route maps agreed with Argyll and Bute Council for timber transport. 2.08 We will complete the timber haul/windfarm route on Loch Awe-side by 2011.
Hardwood timber
Improve and market information on hardwood timber production (quantity, type and WA expected year) to make sure that a wide range of customers are able to bid. We will maximise 2.09 or use of this timber in our own construction and recreational work and monitor usage on an annual basis.
Increase the future broad-leaved resource by identifying opportunities at time of work plan WA preparation, re-stocking, regeneration opportunity or in acquisitions for growing quality 2.10 broadleaves.
Timber in construction
Continue to seek opportunities to demonstrate the use of Scottish timber in construction and WA repair work, maximising the use of local timber e.g. Aros Park re-cladding work, recreation 2.11 bridges, etc.
WA Specify sustainability measures and energy reduction targets in all building tenders. Aim to 2.12 reduce building energy consumption 5% year on year.
32 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme three: business development
Skills In recent years, there has been an increasingly apparent skills gap in the forest industry, with fewer school leavers coming into forestry and a lack of suitably qualified and motivated workers available to Forestry Commission Scotland or the contracting industry. As a result, an apprenticeship scheme has been set up to provide a supply of well-trained and qualified staff available to Forestry Commission Scotland and the private sector. Current apprentices are employed directly by Forestry Commission Scotland, although we expect that demand is likely to exceed the number of available places. Further expansion of apprentice numbers is likely to be achieved in partnership with some of our contractors, partly assisted through long-term contracts. There is a continuing need to develop staff and contractors, and to sustain current programmes, meet new challenges and improve performance.
Timber Currently there are a number of small (often local) Woodfuel initiatives are being pursued as a way timber customers who provide niche market of creating local markets for timber and reducing opportunities, such as hardwood for construction road haulage miles. There is considerable interest in or larch for boat building, firewood merchants expansion of this market on Mull using lower grade and permissions for collecting firewood, and there timber available in some of the forests. is potential for modest further development in Developing a larger-scaled timber market in the these areas. district is a priority, whether this is a renewable energy Apart from small-scale firewood, the main developing market or conventional timber processing. local market for timber is for woodfuel on Mull where we are working with a local enterprise that is actively promoting use of woodfuel on the island.
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Key theme three: business development
Tourism Tourism is the main industry in parts of the Much of our partnership working, such as the district, Oban for example has the busiest tourist Dalriada Project, Sustrans route and the Kintyre information centre in Scotland. Many tourists are Way, is aimed specifically at raising the profile of drawn to this area because of the magnificent the area and maximising the quality of experience scenery and forests are a key component of this. that we can collectively provide for visitors. The national forest estate currently provides a wide Although we have links with many tourism spectrum of interesting recreation sites, such as businesses based in the area we need to develop Sutherland’s Grove, Aros Park, and Fearnoch. this in a more holistic and proactive way that For other areas, such as Mid Argyll and Kintyre, there allows us to integrate with other tourism providers, is a considerable untapped potential in terms of such as Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National the revenue generated from tourism. The area is of Park re West Highland Way, and work together to international significance in terms of its cultural and promote the tourism benefits in the North Argyll/ natural heritage, but it is not yet one of the principal Mull area. Scottish tourism destinations. The challenge is to We are aware that we need to work to improve the work with others to maximise the benefits. quality of recreational provision and to boost public confidence regarding consistency of expectation.
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Key theme three: business development
Income diversification Efficient land management means that we aim We need to expand and diversify our own income to meet our management objectives for the best base to help offset costs in recreation, conservation, possible value for money, while maximising our and infrastructure still needed, particularly income-generating potential. We provide many when operating in a low value timber market. business opportunities while making sure that Currently, 88% of income comes from timber there is a fair and open process for developing with non-forestry ventures, such as radio these opportunities. masts, quarrying and estates-type activities Forestry is a major land use in much of the district. providing a minor but significant part of the It contributes significantly to the local economy district’s income. We will continue to work in terms of the provision of employment, and positively with potential investors to maximise the purchase of goods and services that provide the economic potential (non-timber sources support for local businesses. Our recreational of income) of the national forest estate. In facilities also generate income for local business. particular, there is further potential to provide Wherever possible, we will respond positively to renewable energy sites and housing sites. opportunities to work with local business and other partner organisations when there is potential to contribute positively to the local economy. The national forest estate has potential to add additional value to and provide new opportunities for private or community business ventures, where these are consistent with our own objectives. There is clear potential to derive further indirect benefits from recreational forest visitors and, particularly equestrian use, cycle hire and paddle-sports.
35 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Key theme three: business development
Key theme: Business development
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Skills
Promote continuous improvements to safety culture in the forestry sector by exhibiting WA and practising best practice on the national forest estate. We will discuss safety information 3.01 updates and relevant incidents at an annual all staff meeting and with our contractors as part of pre-commencement meetings.
Prepare a district workforce development plan to identify current and future skill shortages WA and training needs so that staff skills can match and be attuned to developing policies and 3.02 demands. Review and update this annually.
Assist Forestry Commission Scotland in providing opportunities for schoolchildren between WA 14-16 years to learn more about forestry and gain a greater understanding of potential 3.03 employment opportunities.
Contribute to the work of the Forest Education Initiative in supporting forestry skills WA development and careers guidance in schools. We aim to undertake at least six school visits 3.04 per year.
Continue to build on and geographically widen the success of the local Modern Apprentice WA scheme and secure funding to sustain the programme. We will maintain the number of 3.05 apprentices at at least five over the next five years.
Tourism
Work in partnership with other tourism providers and Visit Scotland to more strongly integrate the role of Forestry Commission Scotland forests and their facilities in boosting WA tourism locally by encouraging longer stays. We will undertake a comprehensive feedback 3.06 survey among key tourism providers in the area by 2011 to see how we can improve our integration with this sector.
Make special effort to build on our contribution to the wildlife viewing facilities to improve WA current service, e.g. sea eagles and beavers, and to work closely with partners who offer 3.07 this service.
36 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Key theme three: business development
Key theme: Business development
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Tourism (continued)
WA Encourage local business developments that match our wider social and environmental 3.08 standards to derive benefits from tourism, particularly where they further promote forest use.
WA Continue to consider the landscape value of woodlands to tourism during the forest design 3.09 plan process with particular regard to views to and from the forest.
Income diversification
Identify and test opportunities for diversification of income that is vital to protect programme development in other areas. We will also engage with stakeholders to make sure that WA proposals are well thought through and that long-term relationships are not damaged. We will 3.10 review the percentage of our non-timber income at each business plan and seek to grow this percentage year on year.
Assess forests with low scores from portfolio analysis for opportunity to improve their non- market and/or economic performance. If this is not possible, they may be considered for sale WA to realise money for recycling to other key work areas, including new acquisitions. We will 3.11 produce a report by 2012 that outlines scope for portfolio analysis score improvement in forest blocks with current low score and identified opportunity for improvement.
Contribution to rural development
WA Be open to new business ideas that match our wider social and environmental standards and 3.12 consider positively proposals that will assist growth or development of local businesses.
37 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Woods in and around towns The district’s recreational facilities provide well-managed opportunities for people to enjoy exercise and learning. We engage with the local public health network in promoting healthy living through organised events. The proximity of Kilmory Woodland Park to Lochgilphead gives it a unique value to the community. We are working in partnership with Argyll and Bute Council and Scottish Natural Heritage to make sure that the community is involved in development plans.
Since the initiation of the National Forest Land We work closely with Argyll and Bute Council Scheme, we have provided a number of sites departments and other agencies to promote for affordable housing, such as Achnamara, inclusive use of the area’s forests. Workers from Aros on Mull. We consider any enquiry from eastern European countries have settled in Argyll the community on the sale of land. The Minard and form an important element of the area’s Community Trust recently purchased an area of population, culture and forest contractor base. land from Forestry Commission Scotland to assist We have already taken a key role in several art with the development of a new village hall. and culture projects such as Mull Theatre, An Although we provide a spectrum of interesting, Tobar exhibitions, Aig an Oir, C4 Big Art Project, quality recreation facilities these are not always Achnabreck, etc. There is scope for us to be more best placed for easy access from communities and open and proactive in our role in encouraging are sometimes more readily accessed by visitors future projects and in developing the contribution with cars. Facilities exist close to Bridge of Orchy, we can make to such projects. Taynuilt, Benderloch and Tobermory, but there is an obvious gap in provision close to Oban, where delivery of facilities could enhance quality of life.
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Key theme four: community development
Community engagement Communities are all different and their needs vary We will continue to work with and encourage enormously. There is a diverse range of communities communities to become involved in the in the district and they each have different priorities management of, and output from, their local forest. in woodland management and requirements for Where feasible, we promote a partnership approach engagement. A few communities have become to forest management with the local community, active in management issues, such as Friends of Aros such as at Minard and Beinn Ghuilean. A sense of Park. In other areas, we have actively growing links community ownership will help to secure success with communities with a view to working jointly on in the imminent further development of Kilmory beneficial access projects in the forest, such as at Woodland Park. This will make sure that the Dalmally and Tobermory. woodland is managed with the community’s needs Rural communities in the district are generally and expectations at the forefront. accepting of forest management, but still have an Consultation with interest groups, other than interest in operations and in particular can have geographical communities, is also important concerns about timber traffic. and includes mountain bikers, hill-walker Many communities simply want to be kept informed representation groups, local archaeology groups, and appreciate an opportunity for consultation on fisheries interests, etc. forest plans to influence management decisions. We will seek opportunities to further involve groups such as the local voluntary sector and unemployed people in a bid to promote the forest environment as an opportunity for training and gaining new skills. We take an active role in the Community Planning Partnership, though we could perhaps clarify the strength of our role in this.
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Key theme four: community development
Community ownership Learning The continuous increase in community participation The area has its share of children who do not in forest management means that we have to respond well to formal education and we work increase our input to ensure successful and very closely with the education sector to offer sustainable partnership and development. This may alternatives. Resource limitations mean that our result in some communities reaching the level where role has to focus on facilitating use of the forest they wish to purchase under the National Forest rather than always directly leading groups. We are Land Scheme. actively promoting the Forest School initiative in association with several schools in the district area. Two forests (~700 ha) in Dervaig, north west Mull, have been sold to the local community as the first The newly formed Forest Education Initiative cluster approved National Forest Land Scheme forest sale. group for North and West Argyll was successful In future cases, it may be more appropriate to look in securing funding to run a level 3 Forest School at a spectrum of options including management leaders course in Argyll. As a result, there are now agreement or concordat. 16 qualified Forest School leaders in the area who will deliver the Forest School initiative in Since the advent of the scheme we have actively due course, with the ability of in-house training. promoted potential affordable housing sites with This should help reverse the tendency for young housing associations, such as at Salen, Craignure, people in secondary education to loose their Bridge of Orchy, etc. and some of these are now at connection with the outdoors. More active links the planning permission stage. with secondary schools are being developed. We are actively seeking and providing opportunities Our local forests contain a wealth of biodiversity for other affordable housing sites and we are interest, much of which is not appreciated by the working closely with some community councils to general population through lack of awareness. All help development of community facilities, such as efforts should be made to increase the public’s Barcaldine Village Hall, sheds at Aros, etc. awareness, understanding and enjoyment of the rich biodiversity of our forests. The Galgael Trust, a voluntary organisation based in Govan that offers training and development opportunities to disadvantaged people, has taken over the lease of Barmaddy farm house in Inverliever forest. Forestry Commission Scotland will remain a partner in its plans to develop the building into a centre for education and skills development.
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Key theme four: community development
Islands Languages On Mull, we have formed a high profile The Gaelic language is an important component partnership with other organisations and groups of the cultural identity in areas of the district to enhance and take forward the sea eagle viewing and is in everyday use by a significant minority experience as part of a contribution to the island of the population, particularly on Mull. as an exemplar for wildlife based tourism. This is Gaelic is used by Forestry Commission Scotland contributing significantly to the Mull economy and on some interpretation boards and signs and bringing much valuable publicity to the area. in some publications, but this is an area in We have taken a key role in the early development which we have struggled to achieve consistency. of a woodfuel enterprise on Mull that has the We will implement Forestry Commission potential to spread to other parts of the district. Scotland’s new Gaelic language plan. Forestry has much to offer island communities and our strategy is to manage the island woodland resource of the national forest estate in partnership with our island communities.
41 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Key theme: community development
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Woodlands in and around towns
Identify opportunity for acquisition of land/woodlands in close proximity to towns. Continue WA to build on the success and potential for development of the community woodlands at 4.01 Kilmory and Beinn Ghuilean.
Community engagement
WA Encourage communities that wish to become more involved in the management of, or 4.02 outputs from, their local forest.
Contribute to an island strategy that covers all major islands containing part of the national WA forest estate, including Mull and consult to include community views in this process. The 4.03 feedback from this strategy will be incorporated into Mull forest design plans from 2010.
WA Continue to support, consult with and encourage communities that are currently involved in 4.04 their local forest.
Community ownership
Receive community approaches on purchase positively and process applications that WA fit the National Forest Land Scheme criteria as quickly as possible. Continue to work 4.05 constructively with the group bidding to purchase part of Salachary Forest for woodland croft development.
WA Continue to seek opportunity to make suitable areas available to housing associations for 4.06 affordable housing.
WA Inform community councils of forests for sale in their area as far in advance as possible to 4.07 give them adequate time to consider their position.
42 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Key theme: community development
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Learning
Target our limited resources at engaging with local primary schools, the Rural Skills WA programme in secondary schools and supporting Forest School. We will deliver this by 4.08 complementing the Forest Education Initiative group for North and West Argyll.
Take an active role in and support the recommendations arising from the WA Forestry Commission Scotland Gaelic language plan due to be finalised 4.09 in early 2010. We will incorporate the recommendations of this plan into district policy within three months of the plan being approved.
Partnerships
WA We will continue to contribute to a range of current partnerships, and will actively consider 4.10 new proposals where appropriate.
Islands
WA Actively consider partnership approaches by stakeholders or businesses to develop local 4.10 capacity or grow the local economy.
43 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Recreation There is a high level of informal use of the forest as well as opportunity provided at a number of formal recreation facilities. These are detailed in the district recreation plan. Many forests have formal recreation facilities: car parks, way-marked walks, mountain bike routes, picnic areas and viewpoints. Interpretation is provided at a number of sites through a range of media. We run a full events programme with the intention of appealing to a wide range of interests and ages, ranging from arts to 4x4 events. The quality of our recreation provision must continue to improve; though we must be realistic about the resource needed for this.
We are aware that many potential forest visitors only Forest operations can be hazardous and often follow waymarked routes through fear of getting lost. present a threat to the public if they are in the We need to find ways of delivering information that vicinity of operational work or forest machines. will promote more widespread access to the national Current controls need improvement to make these forest estate in general. controls more realistic and to address genuine public access safety hazards more fully. Many tourists/travellers in the Argyll area are not seeking an active experience and enjoy the We have some examples of misuse of the forest, contribution of forests to the landscape from their including illicit motorcycle access, fly tipping and coach, train or car window. unauthorised use of car parks by travellers. Widespread establishment of scrub along road and rail-sides has gradually reduced views to and from the forest. We need to find solutions to maintain the most important viewing locations.
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Key theme five: access and health
Making access easier Health The distribution of the forests we manage in the There has been limited engagement so far with district reflects past policies. Most are not within health authorities to identify opportunities for easy walking distance from main towns and in greater use of the forests in improving health. most cases public transport links are inadequate The district’s forests are enjoyed by a variety of user in terms of facilitating forest access. Large sections groups. Walking is enjoyed by a very wide ability of the district’s communities rarely visit their and age group, and improvements to facilities and forests and it is certain that more can be done to signage are increasing the number of visitors. encourage access to forests by current non-users. Local mountain bike groups, such as Mid Argyll Although walking continues to be the main activity Cycle Club, have helped encourage local young of many forest visitors other activities are growing people to stay active and to make greater use in popularity as forest-based recreation, such as of the forest. We need to be more proactive in mountain biking, running, paddle-sports, archery this area and continue to make facilities more and wildlife viewing. There is a need to manage all welcoming and prioritise facilities where there is these and other activities appropriately and plan to available access for all. avoid conflicts between different user groups. Ticks carry Lyme disease and a high percentage There is increasing demand from several mountain of forest ticks are infected. At present, public bike user groups and communities to deliver more awareness of this potential hazard is low and little strongly in the provision of expanded cycling information is provided to inform the public as opportunity in the forest. to what checks and precautions are appropriate. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code provides free District staff are made aware of the hazards of and open responsible access to land and we fully Lyme disease through information cards and at support and promote the code. The core path staff meetings. Visitors to organised activities and network is being consulted and developed and a events are informed of the hazards, but other significant number of agreed routes are expected visitors to the forest are not. on national forest estate land. We are aware of the need to improve mountain access and are working with stakeholders to deliver this.
45 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Key theme: access and health
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Recreation
Seek further investment to maintain and enhance current facilities and to increase their WA usage by local people consistent with prioritisations arising from revision of the district 5.01 recreation plan. We will co-ordinate a programme of visitor number monitoring covering key sites to allow better prioritisation of future resources.
Continue to update our key interpretative facilities and work with other partners to provide WA coherent, flexible and stimulating interpretative opportunities. We will overhaul and update 5.02 our recreation plan in 2010 to allow a more co-ordinated and balanced approach, including consultation with key stakeholders
Making access easier
WA Work with local access officers to help maintain and manage those routes on the national 5.03 forest estate that form part of the core path network.
Continue to address the Disability Discrimination Act in a prioritised and WA proactive way using the Countryside For All Good Practice Guide. All entry 5.04 points to the forest to be surveyed for impediments to access and a five- year rolling programme of improvements to be produced in 2010.
WA Continue to find ways to resolve any actual or perceived user group conflict by working with 5.05 communities and user groups to seek workable solutions.
Protect public rights of way through woodlands and take them into account in forest design WA and management. We will make sure that all rights of way and core paths are included in our 5.06 geographic information system (GIS) layer by end 2009.
46 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Key theme: access and health
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Health
Promote and facilitate greater use of the national forest estate for physical activity through our own events, working with health professionals and Forestry Commission Scotland health WA co-ordinators to undertake measures such as referrals, support and training for walk leaders. 5.07 By 2010, produce a local strategy and timetable of events that includes a list of stakeholding health professionals who are willing to co-operate with the strategy.
Improve communication of healthy activities, through improved and targeted WA communication, marketing and interpretation – with a special emphasis on people who 5.08 currently do not make use of the forests. Carry out at least three talks a year to groups that include potential forest users.
47 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Soil, water and air quality Water quality is of prime importance to the local population, industry and ecology. Many of our forests are in designated catchments, such as Loch Creran, or other sensitive water bodies, such as Loch Etive. These have associated important wildlife and fishing sensitivities and designations.
Fish farming is a major industry in the area and Each of the designated sites in the district has a protection of water quality is essential to fisheries management plan agreed with Scottish Natural in the district (including salmon rivers and fish Heritage, which is revised every five years. Our farms), as well as to private and public water management of these sites will be strictly in supplies and hydro-schemes. Over 190 lochs, accordance with these agreed plans. covering 954 ha, are in district ownership with Many of our forests lie on steep or unstable ground numerous others bounding Forestry Commission and are vulnerable to erosion and landslip. Scotland land. Some are the result of natural processes, but The marine environment must also be protected, additional run-off from forest operations and and our coastal woodlands represent one of our cultivation can result in soil movement and key habitat types. There are currently proposals for erosion, leading to sedimentation and turbidity. a marine national park to be set up in the area. Extreme weather events and low levels of stability The district has extensive areas of deep peat mean that we need to find more robust ways associated with UK biodiversity action plan types of delivering lower impact road construction ‘upland heath’ and ‘blanket bog’, where restoration and forest operations that are in tune with such may be desirable for economic reasons and habitat ground conditions. enhancement, such as raptors and black grouse.
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Key theme six: environmental quality
Soil, water and air quality (continued) Landscape Continuous cover forestry is one way to manage In many cases, the forests make a very positive forests with lower impact on soils and a higher contribution to the quality of the landscape. degree of ground protection. We must make sure that our actions maintain At present our silvicultural understanding of or enhance these features and the wider continuous cover type forestry on the west coast is landscape throughout the district in general. fairly limited and we need to work with current trial Our forests at Knapdale, Barrs and Glen Orchy lie in or areas to allow maximisation of continuous cover adjacent to national scenic areas, and there are other where opportunity allows, such as Barcaldine, areas of designed landscape, such as Inveraray Castle. Fearnoch, and Glen Nant. Over 15% of the area is classified as having landscape We need to take every opportunity to enhance the design sensitivities for re-stocking. Much of the sustainable management of all our operations. district’s native woodlands are also prominent in the landscape. These areas will be the focus for lower impact silvicultural systems and an important aspect of our commitment to sustainable forest management. Significant areas of the estate are currently hidden from view, but recreation initiatives such as the Kintyre Way are bringing people into new areas requiring re-evaluation of forest design through smaller-scale restructuring and increased species diversification. The Scottish Natural Heritage landscape character assessment provides further guidance for incorporation into forest design plans. The main landscape-related issues for forest management and planning are good landscape design and interpretation. We will apply Forestry Commission Scotland landscape guidelines, especially in designated areas and other visually sensitive sites, and provide interpretation to continue to help visitors to appreciate and understand wooded landscapes. We need to work more closely with neighbours to deliver forest design plan benefits on a landscape scale.
49 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Cultural heritage Many large tracts of land containing our rich Management plans agreed with Historic Scotland cultural heritage, including scheduled and are in place for all scheduled ancient monuments unscheduled ancient monuments and listed and will be maintained. Further opportunities for buildings, are owned and actively managed as part public and schools involvement in our cultural of the national forest estate, such as Aros Park, heritage will be explored. Interpretation and Glen Nant and Glen Orchy. The number of sites access improvements are a key feature of the is continually increasing and we need to make Dalriada Project. sure that we continue to pursue a robust system We must capitalise on the tourism and educational for identifying, recording, and protecting them value of such features and the importance of their through improved site planning, forest design and context in a historic and landscape scale setting. operational processes.
50 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Key theme: environmental quality
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Soil, water and air quality
Use detailed site planning and consultation with key stakeholders, particularly the Scottish WA Environmental Protection Agency and fisheries groups, to identify site and downstream 6.01 issues for inclusion in subsequent operations. A summary of consultation will be filed in association with each design plan.
Work with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and Scottish Natural Heritage WA on the delivery of the EU water framework directive and the protection of special areas for 6.02 conservation on rivers and their tributaries. We will draw up a programme of prioritised improvements to engineering structures in relation to the water framework directive by 2011.
Areas of unstable ground or with slope stability issues will be treated WA especially sensitively and will receive additional monitoring to make sure 6.03 that all guidelines are adhered to or exceeded. A specific suite of additional guidelines will be formulated for sites in Glen Shira by 2010.
Landscape
Continue to include landscape as a major consideration in long-term forest planning and WA gradually work at resolving issues such as hard edges and masked views, and make balanced 6.04 decisions on the way forward taking into account other issues; such as economics and biodiversity value.
Continue to increase the area managed under low impact silvicultural systems WA - currently just over 9% of the forest area (approx. 8,888 ha). We will build on 6.05 the silvicultural skills of our staff through training and participation in groups that promote the advancement of alternative silvicultural systems.
51 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Key theme: environmental quality
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Cultural heritage
Continue to work with local archaeologists and Historic Scotland to protect the ancient monuments in our care and to make sure that cultural heritage issues are adequately WA addressed in any proposed developments (including acquisition of bare land). 6.06 We incorporate the recommendations of Historic Scotland site inspectors into scheduled ancient monument plans within three months of each inspection.
Improving access to and expanding interpretation in association with the important WA cultural heritage in the district area is seen as priority and will be addressed through design 6.07 plans, the recreational plan and work plans as appropriate. By 2011, we will produce a plan listing improved access opportunity in relation to archaeology feature access.
52 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Species and habitats Priority habitats include native woodlands, upland heath and blanket bog. Each has a habitat action plan explaining their extent, features and required works to either maintain, enhance, preserve or restore them to their former state. We are fully committed to restoring all plantations on ancient woodland sites unless there are significant and compelling reasons not to. Specific action plans should dictate necessary survey, monitoring and habitat management methods to make sure that the habitats complement the associated priority species.
The wider benefits gained through further Woodland areas containing woodland dependent naturalisation of plantation woodlands will be species covered by a species action plan such as significant, especially for the spread of native red squirrel, chequered skipper, wood ant, pearl- broadleaf trees and to help woodland dependent bordered fritillary, juniper and black grouse, will species action plan species. Active intervention may be managed with a view to maximising benefit be needed to boost numbers of under-represented for these species. Unfortunately our knowledge tree species affected by historic management of how we can best protect and encourage these practices, such as elm, juniper and aspen. We also species can be more limited than we would like. need to implement a strong action plan for dealing We will work closely with Forest Research and with unwanted coniferous regeneration, such as in other stakeholders/agencies in finding pragmatic riparian zones, open ground or habitat links. solutions following best practice to protect and encourage such species. Locally important species, such as glow-worms, should not be overlooked in setting priorities.
53 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Species and habitats (continued) Deer management is a high priority in the district, These have the potential to significantly with four species (red, roe, sika and fallow) of compromise our silvicultural and environmental deer present. The principal objective is to manage management objectives in areas where they a healthy population of deer at a level that is occur and much of this is on land of significant compatible with their environment and our various biodiversity value or on plantations on ancient management objectives. woodland sites. Considerable progress has been made at our more important native woodland We are still finding unacceptable levels of damage sites in recent years, but there remains a lot to natural regeneration and the ‘softer’ planted more to be done. species in many parts of the district. We need to look for cost-effective solutions to this using a Other invasive exotics, such as Himalayan range of deer management options and working balsam. hypericum and an introduced vaccinium with local deer management groups. Sheep species, are also causing significant problems. incursion is also a significant problem in some The uncontrolled spread of bracken, although areas, such as Glen Orchy. indigenous, can also replace more valuable habitats on a local scale. Invasive exotic plant species are a particular problem in parts of the district, particularly We need to develop our strategy for dealing with rhododendron, western hemlock, ragwort and this issue in association with the Conservancy Japanese knotweed. and other landowners. At present we only have the resource to deal with a fraction of the rhododendron problem and may not currently be doing enough to halt the rate of spread.
54 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Landscapes and ecosystems Landscape-scale forest restoration projects In our forest design plan process we have in will be informed through the forest habitat the past tended to try and link with habitats network project. We aim to increase diversity that currently exist on neighbouring ground, in silvicultural systems, especially of forest rather than working with neighbours to try fringes and possible habitat corridor zones. and influence them to allow us to work jointly We recognise the importance of edge zones towards common forest habitat network goals. - transitional/shrubby/edge ecotones and the Individual forest blocks should be managed as value of managing these as an important part part of the larger network in co-operation with of the diversity of habitats of forest networks private and other public sector landowners and stakeholders, such as Scottish Natural Heritage, Development of a forest habitat network will Scottish Government Rural Payments and provide opportunities to expand and enhance Inspections Directorate, and Conservancy staff. Our the range of priority habitats and species. A key forest plans may require updating between their part of this is to establish a substantial network of periodic reviews. This is an important, developing native woodland centred on existing broadleaved and ongoing process that will require much remnants and located along watercourses in collaboration with neighbouring landowners existing conifer forests. Work is currently being carried out to determine the potential for The protected woodland sites designated special expansion of forest habitat networks on an internal areas of conservation also provide a focus for and landscape scale, such as Glen Dochart to ambitious forest landscape projects, in partnership Loch Awe and Loch Etive, and this will strongly with local landowners and land managers. influence long-term forest planning decisions. Our management of open space needs to be more targeted. Thus far we have concentrated on management of native woodland. Open space management should be considered as part of the grazing potential survey.
55 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Designated sites Achieving favourable conservation status through The remaining 10% lower grade sites may be appropriate management of all designated areas held over to a later intervention depending on of woodland and associated open habitat in the resources available at the time. It may be that district is a high priority. another generation of plantation conifers might still be appropriate on some sites, such as adjacent to Maps showing the location of national parks, rhododendron spread. national scenic areas, forest parks and areas of great landscape; and national nature reserves, Longer term we may want to make sure that a Natura sites (special areas of conservation and percentage of ground is allocated to pioneer species special protection areas), sites of special scientific spread as opposed to all going to climax native interest and ancient woodlands is available in woodland types. Most current natural regeneration Appendix one. is of pioneer type species, such as birch, alder, rowan, etc. As these areas develop towards climax species Approximately 5% of the district is native woodland. we may need to take a more holistic overview of The area of forest classified as plantation on ancient structure and woodland type. woodland sites is 3393 ha. The restoration and improvement of all these existing native woodlands and associated open habitats will continue in line with the recommendations of the Environmental Review Group. Our aspiration is listed as restoring 90%+ of these sites at first intervention.
56 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Increasing awareness and improving knowledge Our local forests contain a wealth of biodiversity For example, when the Forestry Commission interest, much of which can prove inaccessible Scotland native woodland survey is completed, to the general population through lack of it will provide an up to date summary of awareness. All efforts should be made to increase woodland features and their success, which the awareness, understanding and enjoyment will assist us greatly in our management. of the rich biodiversity of the district’s forests. The application of continuous cover silviculture The district has a strong and diverse education systems is still in its infancy in the state sector and community engagement programme. We in general and in the district in particular, but have formed a partnership agreement with we are committed to working with Forest Scottish Natural Heritage to deliver a community Research and other bodies to improve our biodiversity package that is aimed at helping local understanding and expertise in this area. people to explore, understand and contribute Forest Research biodiversity decision-support to the enhancement of the local environment. tools – such as the biological and environmental Biodiversity is generally well-recorded and evaluation tools for landscape ecology, BEETLE monitored in the district to make sure that it and the decision support tool and information receives appropriate protection and consideration, system for managing habitats and rare priority and but there are many areas where there are protected species HaRPPS - have not yet been put gaps in our knowledge and experience. to practical use in the district, but we will work with the agency to determine how these can be applied effectively to our planning and management. There is also a need for the continuous development of staff skills and knowledge, to keep pace with ever changing policies and demands.
57 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Geodiversity The district contains a particularly diverse range of geological formations and the area is famous worldwide amongst geologists. We need to safeguard unusual geological outcrops including sites of special scientific interest such as Allt Molach (ring dykes) and Glen Forsa, S’Airde Beinn (volcanic plug).
58 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Key theme: biodiversity
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Species and habitats
Restore all plantations on ancient woodland sites, wherever this is a practical WA proposition. The current level of restoration is 55%, but in the longer- 7.01 term we expect this to reach over 90% restoration (5,988 ha).
WA Continue to expand the area of native woodland from the current level 7.02 of 5,086 ha (8% of woodland area) to significantly over 9,000 ha.
Future forest structure and management practices will continue to be strongly influenced WA by the need to enhance the prospects for our species action plan species and other 7.03 important species. These can also be used as barometers for a whole host of other species.
WA Produce a plan for prioritised control of invasive exotic species by 2011 and 7.04 implement as resources permit in association with other partners.
Continue to monitor deer numbers and damage levels on an annual WA basis to make sure that our deer management keeps deer populations 7.05 and damage in balance with sensitive habitat requirements.
Assess the potential impact of management proposals on Natura WA sites – either on, or adjacent to, the national forest estate - using the 7.06 appropriate assessment process to avoid impacting on these sites.
59 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Key theme: community development
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Landscapes and ecosystems
Collaborate, on at least a five-yearly basis, with neighbouring landowners, colleagues WA in Perth and Argyll Conservancy and Scottish Natural Heritage, and in association 7.07 with design plan revision, to create functioning landscape-scale habitat networks.
WA Seek acquisitions where these provide vital links for improving this network and for creating 7.08 new opportunities, e.g. tree-line forest development or forest habitat network links.
WA Manage open space in a more pro-active and targeted way in some areas and 7.09 produce a plan outlining these areas and our plan of action by 2011.
Work with local deer management groups to foster a responsible attitude towards fencing issues and co-operative management of population levels in association with the WA Deer Commission Scotland. This will be challenging, given the different management 7.10 objectives of many neighbours. In open deer range, ring deer fences will be maintained where necessary and an appropriate contribution will be sought from neighbours.
Designated sites
WA Make sure that 95% of features will be in “favourable” or “unfavourable recovering” 7.11 condition classes by 2010, using management plans agreed with Scottish Natural Heritage.
WA Continue to take account of neighbouring designated sites in forest plans and operational 7.12 plans with the aim of protecting and, where appropriate, enhancing their status.
60 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Key theme: community development
Key issue What West Argyll Forest District will do
Increasing awareness and improving knowledge
Promote the profile and awareness of biodiversity requirements during WA stakeholder engagements, school visits and forest plan consultations, where 7.13 appropriate working with Scottish Natural Heritage, and proactively encourage involvement in biodiversity projects by communities and volunteers.
Seek opportunities to develop wildlife watching on the national forest WA estate in association with other providers and partners. Incorporate any 7.14 recommendations in the 2010 revision of the recreation plan.
Geodiversity
WA Identify important geodiversity sites on the national forest estate and 7.15 maintain and enhance through the forest plan process.
61 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Section three
Section three: delivery and monitoring
Climate change is the biggest threat facing the planet and Scottish forestry is playing its part in helping tackle climate change. Trees have a significant role in reducing the affects of climate change as they naturally lock up carbon.
62 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Section three: delivery and monitoring
Context 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 • national policies e.g. UK Forestry Standard, work programmes and allocated resources are Forestry Commission People Strategy confirmed with the local staff who then organise • memoranda and instructions e.g. the work and monitor delivery against agreed monitoring of stocking densities according timescales, costs and quality standards. to Operational Guidance Booklet 4 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:
63 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Section three: delivery and monitoring
Two types of monitoring carried out in Informal monitoring is concerned primarily with the district - formal and informal. the day-to-day management of the district work Formal monitoring is concerned with programme and is carried out primarily in-house. areas where we have legal, moral or Informal monitoring include activities such as: policy obligations to fulfil and is often also • contract progress audited by external parties. Important areas covered under this heading include: • site visits • personal budget monitoring • monitoring of overall standards (e.g. compliance with forest plans, UK • work programme monitoring Woodland Assurance Standard, etc.) • time management • conservation monitoring The results from these have a variety of uses, • archaeological monitoring both long and short-term and are a useful tool in improving our management skills. • health and safety monitoring They: • business plan monitoring • are analysed and the recommendations We also have to monitor against the indicators are fed back, where appropriate, identified in the Forest Enterprise Scotland strategic into our planning process plan for the national forest estate. These will then • help to influence future management of the be amalgamated across all ten forest districts to forests, as well as aiding development of the determine collective progress in delivering against future work programme and budget planning the Scottish Forestry Strategy. These results will be • can also help shape new local policies, published annually at national level. as well as improving existing ones
The repositioning of the national forest estate will continue, with woods of greatest public benefit retained as part of the estate. Information about the repositioning policy is contained in the strategic plan for the national forest estate. Details of the scoring for woods in the district are contained in Appendix five.
64 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Appendices
Appendices
The use of wood as a fuel will help reduce harmful greenhouse emissions and we are working hard to promote wood fuel developments.
65 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
66 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
67 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
68 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
69 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
70 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
71 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? The district has a Partial The first thinning contract for Yes presumption in favour of some years was let in 1999. thinning. All stands will Opportunities to thin are taken be thinned where they wherever possible, and in the meet stability criteria (met long-term we expect to be able to by 36% of the district thin around 25% of the woodland forest area), growth area. However a lack of available rate thresholds and are crops (the majority are either too accessible. old or too young or otherwise inaccessible) means that the Prepare new format current (2007) thinnable area is thinning plan (West Argyll around 1000 ha. This will increase, Forest District Strategy as younger stands become Paper 9) and geographic available. information system (GIS) coupe layer by May 2001. All silvicultural thinning will be undertaken in accordance with Build the thinning the district thinning plan and programme to make sure managed in accordance with that all eligible crops are Forestry Commission Booklet being thinned by 2005. 54: Thinning Control and Forest Enterprise Scotland Policy Guidance Note 4.
72 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? Timber volumes harvested Yes The production forecast process Yes will be constrained to will determine volumes of timber 105% of the forecast harvested in the district. volume for any five-year period, unless clearance of severe windblow is required. Maintain timber Yes The district continues to work with Yes, in updated movement by sea and rail ATTG to develop timber transport format. at above 120000 t/yr. methods that reduce impacts on minor highways and their users. Work with the Argyll Timber Transport Group (ATTG) to develop a funding bid for development of a public/ private timber haul route network, for submission in March 2001.
Replanting with Yes Stocking density assessments are Yes commercial conifers undertaken at least three times will aim to achieve 2500 during the establishment period. stems/plantable ha to maintain timber quality. To aid this, a planting density of 2700 stems/plantable ha will be sought.
73 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? We will achieve full Partial We adhere to UK Forestry Yes, but upgrade structural diversification Standard requirements that to two rotations (normality) of forests adjacent stands be at least 2 m for forest design in a maximum of three high before felling can take place. plan units and one rotations. rotation for district. Pre-mature felling and delayed felling are being widely used to speed structural diversification of our forests. This process is monitored by Forestry Commission Scotland through the forest design plan process.
Felling coupes will not Partial Plans produced since 1998 have Yes, but amend. normally exceed 20 ha significantly smaller felling coupes (net) unless larger coupes compared to earlier plans. are needed in large- Coupe size is monitored by UK scale landscapes, native Woodland Assurance Standard woodland restoration and the coupe size rationale schemes or areas where for each forest is contained in unacceptable roading each forest design plan, which would otherwise be is approved and monitored by required. Forestry Commission Scotland. Where larger felling An average may be a more coupes are required appropriate target. due to constraints in the existing stand, smaller coupes will be designed into replanting.
74 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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 district will achieve Partial These data are presented as part Yes, but update with a land use mix in any of forest design plan submissions reference to 2006 forest design plan and monitored by UK Woodland environment review. area with no more Assurance Standard. than 75% Sitka spruce, See environment review. and the management objective for at least 25% of the area will be provision of non-market benefits (e.g. landscape, recreation, conservation or environmental protection). The district will identify 5% Yes Natural reserves will be defined Yes, but update under of semi-natural woodland during forest design plan continuous cover and 1% of plantation preparation, providing district forestry/low impact forests as natural reserves wide coverage by 2005. system heading. managed in perpetuity by Deadwood provision is monitored minimum intervention. as part of UK Woodland Assurance Standard compliance checks and form part of an annual internal strategic plan compliance check.
Native tree species cover Partial Native species will be used Yes, but update with will be increased from 5% wherever they are able to meet reference to 2006 to over 8% by 2050. management objectives. Native environment review. woodland cover is steadily increasing in the district.
75 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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 district will increase Yes Forest design plans produced Yes, but make the area of coniferous since mid 1999 have defined more strategic and mixed woodland continuous cover areas, covering and integrate with under continuous cover all broadleaved woodland and at thinning strategy. management. least 1% of the productive forest area, as well as all 5% of existing Generally areas greater native woodland cover. than 20 ha will be identified to make Continuous cover management sure of their long-term commenced in 2000 at Kilmory, management and viability Birdfield and Ardcastle. using the continuous Compliance is monitored cover coupe record as part of UK Woodland system. Smaller areas Assurance Standard, and in an would generally be part annual internal strategic plan of a specific recreation compliance audit. Continuous site and managed using a cover operations are recorded in RC&H site record. continuous cover coupe records The focus will be locations for each area. where public and conservation benefits will be high and where crop stability will be good. (continued)
76 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? For coniferous continuous Yes Forest design plans produced Yes, but make cover areas, forest since mid 1999 have defined more strategic design plan preparation continuous cover areas, covering and integrate with will be the trigger for all broadleaved woodland and at thinning strategy. commencing stand least 1% of the productive forest conversion. area, as well as all 5% of existing native woodland cover. All native woodland in the district will be managed Continuous cover management on a continuous cover commenced in 2000 at Kilmory, basis. Sites of special Birdfield and Ardcastle. scientific interest and Compliance is monitored Caledonian Forest Reserve as part of UK Woodland sites will be managed on Assurance Standard, and in an a minimum-intervention annual internal strategic plan basis unless ecological compliance audit. Continuous values are threatened cover operations are recorded in as a result, trigger for continuous cover coupe records commencing stand for each area. conversion. 500 ha of continuous cover stands will be identified by 2005 as part of the forest design planning process. Continuous cover operations will be commenced in 2001 in Ifferdale, Ballochgair, Carradale and Eredine.
77 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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 preferred Yes Areas left for natural regeneration Yes, as above. method of broadleaf will be inspected after five years, establishment will be prompted by a coupe record natural regeneration. resumption system. If no natural This will be used where regeneration is forthcoming they seed sources are visible, will be planted. where there are signs of Planted broadleaves will be natural regeneration in the subject to stocking density vicinity and where ground assessments at least in years 3 and conditions are suitable. 5 after planting. Where natural Our policy and strategy is detailed regeneration is unlikely in the broadleaf woodland or not forthcoming, management plan. broadleaves appropriate to the site conditions will be planted at 1600/ ha. Exclosures will be used where serious deer damage is likely.
78 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? We will identify at Yes Forest design plans produced No least 1% of plantation since mid 1999 have forests and 5% of semi- minimum intervention areas natural woodlands as defined within them. minimum intervention Compliance is monitored areas in accordance as part of UK Woodland with Forest Enterprise Assurance Standard, and in Scotland FMM43. an annual internal strategic By 2006 the district plan compliance audit. will have identified at least 1520 ha of non- intervention native woodland and 480 ha of non-intervention plantation woodland in the district.
79 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? There will be a Partial Any such activity will be fully Yes presumption against soil evaluated in the relevant native disturbance in native woodland habitat action plan, and woodland area, especially RC&H site plan. where native woodlands RC&H site records are regularly are on steep or craggy audited to make sure of ground, shorelines and compliance with the strategic plan. gorge-sides. This includes construction of roads and tracks and ground preparation, which will be kept to the minimum, required to achieve conservation objectives.
80 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? Native woodland Partial These networks are detailed in Yes habitat networks will the district native woodland be developed initially habitat action plan. on Lochaweside and in Implementation of habitat West Knapdale, but also action plans is reviewed potentially at Glen Shira, annually and targets agreed Corranbuie/Skipness and for the subsequent year. Loch Avich, linking in with neighbouring woodland where possible. The potential for additional networks will be established when the district native woodland habitat action plan is reviewed in 2004. All designated sites Yes All plans carry signatures of Yes (special protection areas, relevant agency officers and are sites of special scientific updated after an agreed period. interest and scheduled The agencies charged ancient monuments) will with managing statutory be managed according designations have condition to plans agreed with the monitoring mechanisms relevant agencies. with which we co-operate
81 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? Deer populations will be Partial Qualified specialist ranger staff Yes managed on the basis undertake all deer management of estimates of current activities. numbers, population Deer are managed in accordance dynamics and ecosystem with Forest Management carrying capacity. Memorandum 5, Bulletin 71 and West Argyll Forest District Strategy Paper 7. Deer populations are monitored biannually by faecal pellet counting and population dynamics determined using gender and age data from cull records. Computer programmes are used to compare this data with the carrying capacity of the forest to set a cull target.
82 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? Removal of introduced Partial Detailed prescriptions for specific Yes species. Areas designated sites are contained in the district’s as native woodland 31 specific native woodland will be kept from being management plans. threatened by non-native Implementation of habitat action species. The ultimate aim plans is reviewed annually and for all sites specifically targets agreed for the subsequent defined in native year. woodland management plans will be to remove all non-native species. Where a) the habitat is not immediately threatened and b) trees for removal have a potential ecological, landscape or economic value, clearance will be delayed as described on a case by case basis in specific management plans. Where seed-rain from adjacent stands is a serious source of colonisation, the seed source will be removed if consistent with forest design plan considerations and resource constraints.
83 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? (continued) Partial Habitat action plans are in Yes preparation and data is being All upland heath and shared with Scottish Natural blanket bog in the district Heritage. will be managed according to a Forest Enterprise Complete draft upland habitat Scotland habitat action management plan by September plan endorsed by Scottish 2001. Natural Heritage. An upland habitat monitoring All high quality upland protocol will be developed and heath and blanket agreed with conservation agencies bogs in the district will by September 2001. be included in Forest Enterprise Scotland habitat action plans. Red squirrels are Partial Where red squirrels are known to Revise becoming increasingly exist, provision is made for them scarce in the district, in forest design plans by including despite the current areas of Norway spruce, pine and absence of grey squirrels, larch and hazel as seed sources. and will be encouraged Red squirrel sightings will be through provision of good recorded on the district sightings conifer seed sources. register to build a better picture of status and distribution.
84 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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 district is committed Yes The district will maintain an Revise to the protection of up-to-date record of all known archaeological features archaeological sites. from potentially Forest design and site plans damaging operations include active consideration of and natural processes. archaeological interests. Opportunities will be Yes Waymarked access is provided to Revise taken to make important archaeological sites in Torinturk, archaeological features Inverliever, Kilmichael, Ardcastle, accessible to the public and Knapdale. where this does not jeopardise public safety or quality of the feature. 100% of district land Yes All sites subject to felling or No will be covered by replanting operations will be approved forest design covered by, and will adhere to, plans by March 2005. forest design plans approved by the Forestry Commission Scotland. Our aim is to be 100% compliant with forest 100% achieved. design plans. Forestry Commission Scotland and UK Woodland Assurance Standard monitor compliance.
85 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? Woodland removal must Partial Land will only be proposed for Yes be approved by Forestry tree removal where the ecological Commission Scotland in the and social value of open ground context of forest design plan is greater than as woodland. All proposals. We expect the area such proposals will be subject to of open space on the district Forestry Commission Scotland to increase from 24% to 30% approval. in the next 40 years.
Chemicals will be used only Yes Use is regulated by central No, but covered in where operationally necessary Forestry Commission Scotland district chemical and where alternative guidance including Field Book reduction strategy. solutions of comparative cost 8, FMM3 (Use of pesticides), are unavailable. Synthetic FMM10 (Forest Nutrition), chemical use is currently FMM12 (Use of pesticides confined to: to control hylastes, FMM31 (Weeding in the forest) and Policy • urea or borate for cut Guidance Note 5. stump treatment against the fungus Heterobasidium Chemical use is recorded in site annosum • glyphosate, kerb records and on annual returns. and arsenal for weed control Progress on implementation of and rhododendron treatment chemicals reduction plan will be • permethrin for control of reviewed annually. pine weevil, both as a pre- planting plant treatment and post-planting spray • ammonium nitrate as an N fertiliser for checked crops
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? All existing permissive and Yes Liaison is maintained with the Revise traditional routes will be Scottish Rights of Way Society and kept open and managed permissive routes are published in to make sure that they are their map of Scottish Hill Tracks. passable for users on foot. We will seek to provide Yes The district strategy is set out in Yes opportunities for Strategy Paper 6. recreation in the forest We respond positively to where a significant approaches from interest groups, demand exists. e.g. horse riders in Kilmichael and Carradale Play Group. Visitor trends and profiles are monitored annually as part of a national Forest Enterprise Scotland monitoring programme.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? Access to the district’s Yes District facilities are promoted Yes forests on foot, cycle and through leaflets, local advertising, horse will be actively road signs and comprehensive on- encouraged through site interpretation. signage and advertising of facilities, in accordance with the district recreation plan. District recreation Yes The district strategy is set out in No, see district provision is based Strategy Paper 6. recreation plan. around seven nodal sites: Dalavich, Ardcastle, Kilmory, Barnluasgan, Tarbert, Carradale and Campbeltown. The strategic intention is that each nodal site will have several walk and cycle route options to make sure that facilities are always available.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? We will encourage Partial Community councils and local Yes, but update. the involvement of bodies are being invited into greater local people in native involvement. woodland monitoring We have a local partnership and management. agreement with the Scottish Wildlife Trust and links with the Argyll Raptor Study Group. Volunteer groups are given free accommodation at the Forest Enterprise Scotland Barmaddy Farmhouse in return for undertaking conservation work. The district will maintain Yes List is maintained by the district Yes a list of relevant implementation forester. stakeholders (generally via community councils and other formally constituted groups) that will be kept informed of forest planning and operational activities
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District 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? Stakeholders will be Partial A major annual stakeholder Yes informed about and consultation exercise is undertaken invited to take part in: each April. • forest design plan Where communities show an preparation interest in our activities, we attend community council meetings. • planning and management of We have appointed a community conservation and and conservation ranger to increase recreation sites our dialogue with local people. • development of the annual events calendar The district will be Yes The district, with Scottish Natural Yes proactive in promoting Heritage, has recently recruited community involvement a community and conservation where the potential ranger to support our community is greatest (currently engagement policies. Minard Castle Wood, A partnership with the Minard Kilmory, Beinn Ghuilean Castle Community Woodland and Tarbert). Trust has been formally agreed. Local residents are Yes At Carradale (Port na Storm) Yes contacted prior to the and Ardnoe, harvesting was commencement of works preceded by letters to the on sensitive sites. community councils, discussion at a community council meeting, door-to-door information provision and notices in the local newspaper.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District To 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? Correspondence and Yes We respond to enquiries in five Yes complaints will be dealt working days and complaints in with in accordance three working days. with Forest Enterprise Response to complaints is Scotland Service First monitored through a complaints and Timber Customer register maintained by the district. Charter requirements. Forest Enterprise Scotland monitors customer satisfaction to find ways of improving the service we provide.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District To 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? Whenever possible, Yes Programmes for each beat are Revise sites will be restocked planned and mapped for the immediately after coming year. harvesting to reduce The district coupe record system the impact of weed is the basis for monitoring good infestation and minimise practice. the need for herbicides. Where replanting is to take place, all accessible ground will be prepared using excavator mounding. Drainage ditches will be provided as necessary in accordance with the Forest Commission Scotland forests and water guidelines. On ground inaccessible to machines, screen planting will be favoured over pre-planting herbicides where possible.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original West Argyll Forest District To 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? We work in co-operation Yes Forest Enterprise Scotland is Revise, renewable with wind-farm charged with maximising the energy strategy. companies and Scottish financial return on the estate Natural Heritage to make where this is compatible with sure that the planning other objectives including authority has all the conservation and landscape information it requires to enhancement. The local authority make good decisions. planning process will generally be used to judge the balance In addition to local between these factors in respect to authority planning wind farm applications. processes, the effect of any windfarm development on the integrity of the forest design is evaluated through amendment or revision of the forest design plan, for which Forestry Commission Scotland approval is required.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Make sure that conifer Yes Current year 5 RS at 2690/ha. Carried forward, restocking achieves Target achieved in most years need to clarify for a minimum density though struggles a bit for minor broadleaves as well of 2500/ha. spp., e.g. larch and pine. Targets as conifers. for bdlvs lower variable up to 1500/ha. Broadleaf stocking survey completed but not yet actioned. Reduce the unlawful No No satisfactory system yet found Yes, solution ingress of sheep - sheep ingress and subsequent currently being damage are still an important worked up by factor in several areas of forest. Galloway and Lochaber Forest Districts with a view to others following suit. Use long term contracts Partial Quite a high degree of success, Yes, scope to to act as a catalyst to good working relationship continue building on improve long term established with Iggesund that the success of what marketing in Mull and allows some flexibility and benefits has been achieved Lochaline. the local economy. Has allowed and to continue to development of alternative work together on timber transport, e.g. boat/barge resolving outstanding and support of a local firewood problem areas, e.g. industry. cost of transport and roads infrastructure. Still have work to do to convince smaller businesses that timber supply not all tied up.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Declared policy to Partial Coming together quite well with Yes, further scope to increase thinnings area. successful thinnings at Fearnoch thin suitable areas and Lochaline with proposals to for alternative to Explore opportunities thin areas on Mull. clearfell, general to increase the extent thinning to promote of thinning and to thin higher quality final broadleaf crops. crops. Winch work limitations.
Seek opportunities to Partial Has been successful on Mull Yes, an area to work in a smaller more where there are two small explore for expansion intense manner to create sawmills and in Lochaline for wherever RD material for small timber firewood processing businesses. opportunities exist outlets. Unfortunately sawmill at and we can support Taynuilt recently closed. Future smaller businesses opportunities at proposed without affecting the Lochaline sawmill and chipped viability of our more fuelwood production on Mull. major customers.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Support small- Partial As yet not many small-scale Yes, try to be as scale ventures as ventures identified suitable flexible as possible opportunities arise. for support apart from in support of small those mentioned above. businesses. We will continue to participate in local Small amounts of venison Potential sawmill sustainable developments marketed through local at Lochaline, heat where appropriate. butchers. Suitable land made and power plant at available for grazing. Barcaldine. Scope to expand agroforestry Fish farms at Aros, Mull type areas with in Theatre, windfarms, fishing forest grazing. lets to angling clubs. Have a plan of action Partial Delivered via forest design Yes, some careful for sustainable plan process -> production thought about economic growth. forecast: economic, wording this. environmental and social.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Forest design plans will Yes Conservation and social agendas Yes, future forest take particular regard of becoming increasingly prominent design plans to landscape, conservation throughout the previous strategic strongly reflect and social sensitivity. plan period. Forest design plans priorities and have evolved to reflect this. This agendas as set in means existing plans can rapidly the 2006 Scottish date and need substantial revision Forestry Strategy. to reflect current policy each five Proposal to keep years. forest design plans up to date on a coupe by coupe basis. Achieve 100% forest Partial Now on target for 100% coverage Yes, to be achieved design plan coverage by 2007. Several areas covered by by 2008. The by 2010 (brought indicative plans where no felling challenge then will forward to 2008). operations planned over first 10 be to make plans year period of plan. reflect Scottish Forestry Strategy and local aspirations in a balanced way that reflect a sensible vision for the future.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Larger scale habitat Partial Habitat networks have been Yes, should move to networks will be taken considered in forest design plans reflect the agreed into account at the forest and are receiving increased outcomes of the design plan stage. prominence in more recent 2005 environmental revisions. This trend is likely to review based on continue with older style plans local interpretation brought up to speed e.g. Fearnoch. and stakeholder aspirations. The survey of plantations on ancient woodland sites will be used to inform this process. Goal to improve Partial Restructuring ongoing, though to Yes, balance to biodiversity through an extent limited by cost, lack of achieve Scottish restructuring forests forest road network and difficulty Forestry Strategy and good management in marketing timber from some desires and protect of habitats. coupes. At each forest design plan vulnerable species revision diversity gains higher and local biodiversity prominence and more closely action plan areas. integrates with habits adjacent to the forest. Natural reserves and long- Yes Long-term retentions identified in Yes, continue to term retentions will be several forest design plans, scope seek suitable sites created for biodiversity. for natural reserves more limited. at each revision, to be considered at catchment level. Need to clarify how this balances with active biological intervention.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Management of Partial Broad-leaved areas managed to Yes, continue to broadleaves will aim to increase diversity of native species expand efforts as enhance biodiversity. and promote a healthy ground listed to left, but flora. At present resources mostly make sure there is a directed to statutory sites, e.g. place for non-native sites of special scientific interest broadleaves where and local biodiversity action appropriate and plan areas. As resources permit keep production of this should be extended to all broadleaf timber broadleaf areas. in balance with biodiversity value. Thus far forest design plans have focussed on native bdlf species. Scope to expand bdlf thinning opportunities, e.g. Strone. Achieve a deer cull target Yes Cull has gradually dropped to a Yes, needs to be of just over 1000 deer/yr. maintenance cull of ~1000/yr. This continually reviewed allows successful establishment in the light of a future Target for deer numbers of of Sitka spruce, enhancement of push to establish <6/100 ha in conservation ground flora and spread of natural more vulnerable areas and =<8/100 ha in regeneration. We still have issues conifer species productive forest. with high levels of damage to and a higher % minor species and broadleaves. of broadleaves. Targets too broad brush to allow Targets more likely objectives to be achieved in some to be based on forest areas. damage assessment of target species.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Prepare plans for nine Partial Plans produced for Fearnoch Yes, need to review continuous cover and Barcaldine. where we deliver forestry (CCF) locations CCF (or low impact in the district. silvicultural systems) and what is realistic. Review the plan in 2005. Carry out annual inspections following coupe intervention. Seek opportunities to No No plantings as yet, though Yes, major change plant broadleaves on a potential sites identified at in direction and will commercial basis Fearnoch, Barcaldine and need a high degree Lochaline. First planting planned of commitment and for 2008. effort to achieve results. To be considered as part of each forest design plan revision.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Improve biodiversity Partial Management of habitats Yes, + visual aspect?. through restructuring continually improving as of forests and good surveys are completed and management of a in house expertise increases. range of habitats. Structuring ongoing at each forest design plan revision subject to standard constraints. Habitat action plans Partial Expansion zones for HAP areas Yes, or more of a (HAPs) to be incorporated are being included in forest process than a target? into forest design plans design plan and agreed with consultees as renewals take Action plans to be place. e.g. Allt Broighleachan produced and enacted and Coire Bhiocair included in for two Caledonian Glen Orchy forest design plan. pinewoods and eight Action plan all produced. Atlantic oakwoods.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? High management Partial Increasingly high profile given Yes, but amend. priority to endangered to protection of species during species and habitats. operations through the coupe record system. Species action plans for 13 endangered species e.g. squirrels, wood ants, raptors, – species and habitats otters, etc Monitoring of to be accorded high butterflies carried out this year priority in management using contract and volunteer to ensure sustainability. resources. Endangered habitats generally covered by designation and work to protect detailed in action plans agreed with Scottish Natural Heritage. Sightings recording layer added to geographic information system (GIS). Use of coupe record system to make sure that protection covered in operations. Consultation and co- Yes Through management plans, Yes, inherent operation with specialist sea eagle viewing project, in all we do. bodies to aid management consultation at forest design for endangered species plan and operational planning and habitats. stage with fisheries. Completed management Partial Draft completed to be agreed. No. plan for Glen Nant national nature reserve.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Incorporate plantations Partial This is being done as reviews Yes, or more of a on ancient woodland sites are completed. Covers process than a target? restoration into forest expansion, but need to give design plans. further detailed planning to regeneration and protection. Survey plantations Yes Completed, now have good No, but include on ancient woodland information for district on restoration as a target sites (PAWs) for potential for restoration. Thus far once it becomes potential recovery. high and medium category sites clearer if nearly all incorporated for restoration in PAWs sites are now to forest design plans. be part of this target. Maintain a database Yes Well maintained and useful tool. Yes of sensitive species Contributions to sightings received and habitats to from the majority of staff and inform operations. some members of the public. (sightings database and conservation scheme). Control invasive species Partial Completed for sites of special Yes, profile of this where detrimental scientific interest action plans work likely to to local habitats. and on some recreational sites increase as soon as – resources limit a more wide resources allow. spread control regime.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Maintain 100% coverage Yes Good progress made on removal Yes of plans for sites of of rhododendron and azalea from special scientific interest designated sites. Fencing and and undertake actions glade cutting. agreed with Scottish Natural Heritage. Management to be geared towards preserving or rehabilitating sites to enhance conservation and biodiversity vales. Contribute to targets for Partial Good work on butterfly Yes, but alter. local biodiversity action monitoring, protection of plan (LBAP) and BAP known conservation sites, and species by progressing diver platforms etc. Red squirrel table of priority BAP information improving though actions in conservation staff and cash resource limiting plan gathered from LBAPs. district aspirations. Maintain 100% coverage Yes 100% coverage maintained and Yes, moving to new of scheduled ancient good progress on actions. phase of exploring monument plans and opportunities along make progress on actions with HS. agreed with Historic Scotland (HS).
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Watercourses on unstable Partial Well covered for most silvicultural Yes, all operations slopes require careful operations though scope to to follow 4th Edition consideration at planning improve further on harvesting sites guidelines and any and during operations. and in civil engineering works e.g. subsequent revisions. Brecklet, Arnibea, and St John ’s. Might need definition of what constitutes a potentially unstable slope. Make sure that the Partial All sites categorised as per district Yes, via new coupe provision of deadwood is deadwood plan as part of coupe plan arrangement? adequately monitored via record process. Not so clear that Has to be workable. coupe and forest design monitoring follow up takes place. plan reviews. Reduce chemical usage Partial Chemical usage on RS reduced Yes, need to explore by targeted use of herbicides alternative methods and virtually exclusive use of bio- of weevil control friendly weedkillers. Reduction and continue in use of insecticides to protect with strategies against weevils not yet successful. that reduce use of herbicides. Awaiting more targeted rhododendron control technology. Work on Operations- wide chemical reduction plan in progress.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Recreational management Yes A lot of upgrade and expansion Yes, likely to and investment is geared worked achieved over last six become even more to enhance public years. Awaiting results of strongly targeted enjoyment and visitor survey. at aspirations of visitor experience. stakeholders and New developments such as desire to integrate mountain access and community with other woodland walks, cycle routes in tourism providers. response to aspirations and desires of stakeholders e.g. Glena’chulish, Achacha, Barcaldine, etc. Provide high quality and Partial Quality and standards improved No, not a target, accessible recreation sites. at many sites and being increased basic tenet of what at others as soon as resources we do. permit. Working progressively Might be able towards achieving consistently to make a target high standards across the district. based on disability All abilities access at Aros Park and access and Scottish Glen Nant. Outdoor Access Code standards.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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 Partial New routes constructed at Yes, dialogue with Mountaineering Council horseshoe ridge and Glen Orchy. MCS ongoing with of Scotland (MSC) to Ben Lui and Ben More still view to further improve quality of existing outstanding until resources permit. improvements. mountain access routes. Design and consultation Yes Conflict levels low, largely Yes, important to will be used to resolve due to consideration at keep conflict to issues of user conflict. planning stage. Still some areas a minimum and where minor issues to take devise layouts forward at Aoineadh Mor. and strategies that minimise opportunity for conflict and promote workable compromise. Carry out visitor Yes All Scotland Surveys for Lorne Yes, to be guided monitoring and quality of completed 2005 and full results by feedback from experience surveys. awaited. No recent quality of 2005 survey. experience surveys. Have a plan of action Partial Not much urban environment No, covered by other for enhancement of the in district. Accessibility around targets. urban environment and communities a targeted area e.g. Would be good to increasing accessibility. Glencoe, Ballachulish, Dalmally, add woodlands in Tyndrum, Crianlarich, Taynuilt, and around towns Lochaline, etc. (WIAT) – realistic!
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Stakeholders will be Yes Consultation proving very No, not a target, consulted as part of the successful with useful feedback part of standard planning for each forest incorporated into each forest forest design design plan. design plan. Breadth of plan procedure. consultation being increased as awareness of potential issues and stakeholder groups increases e.g. local archaeology groups, local cycling groups etc. Public and private water Yes Covered by coupe record system. No, standard supplies will be taken A few incidents and still not fully procedure via water into account during all aware of all private supplies. guidelines. Need forest activities. to make sure that constraints fully covered in operations not covered by coupe records.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Work with communities Yes A lot of positive forward Yes, mostly and encourage them to movement in this area and strong expanding and become more involved links established with several building on existing in and benefit from their communities e.g. Lochaline, links and encouraging local woods. Tobermory, Dalmally, Glencoe, other communities Strathfillan, etc. to become more Have a prioritised plan of involved, e.g. Duror, action for involvement Forestry Commission Scotland Appin, Oban, etc. with community councils. response still fairly reactive based on community enthusiasm and drive – need balance between community and Forestry Commission Scotland priorities! Provide opportunities to Partial Permits for moss collecting, Yes, potential for take advantage of non- shooting leases, and private hydro other products, but timber products. scheme at Duror. Access by activity has to be lead by provision tourism businesses e.g. customer demand to quads, 4x4, etc. Always open to an extent. considering and trying to enable any reasonable RD opportunities. Run an active and Yes Mainland and Mull rangers devote Yes developing programme of much of their time to this. Strong school visits to the forest. involvement in development of Argyll Forest Education Initiative cluster group.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Existing community Yes Lots of success with Mull and Yes, likely to be partnerships will Iona Community Trust, sea a very significant continue to be sustained eagle viewing partnership, area of work and whilst promoting new Morvern Woodlands Project, opportunity over the opportunities. Lochaline community, Strathfillan, coming years. Barcaldine Village Hall group, Can expect high We will contrive to engage etc. Working on opportunities demands on with those who live and with Dalmally, Taynuilt and staff time and work on or near Forestry Tobermory communities. commitment. Commission Scotland land in a positive and constructive manner. Must inform local Yes Largely done through forest design No, covered by forest communities about plan process. design plan targets. significant changes in the management of Forestry Commission Scotland land.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Disposals to be advertised Partial Worked very well at Ardhu/ Yes, carry on as per locally and option to Langamull and Strathfillan – National Forest Land purchase offered to debatable if so successful in other Scheme guidance. communities. sales, e.g. Barnacarry. Actively seeking sites for affordable housing in association with housing associations and local communities, e.g. Salen, Appin, Morvern, Craignure, Bridge of Orchy, etc. Tendering of work will be Yes Every effort made to promote Yes, no change. done to encourage local use of local contractors within employment. the guidelines of procurement. Increasing use being made of preferred bidder system to give local contractors fair opportunity.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Make sure that all Yes Robust system in place that works No, not a target. recreation facilities are well and makes sure that remedial managed through a formal work is carried out based on risk. inspection system. Good feedback from 2005 audit. Tree safety inspection procedure Carry out schedule of needs a little tightening up. inspections to pre- determined frequency for recreation sites, bridges, dangerous trees and waste – keep record of work completed. Make sure that pre- Yes Coupe record system to cover No, not a target – operational checks felling coupes. Pre operation standard procedure. are carried out before inspections being tightened up operations commence. to cover vulnerable species. Site hand-over arrangements don’t always work smoothly. Make sure that formal Yes Formal system for estate type No, not a target. activities receive permissions and internal written permissions. consultation. Trying to reduce need for written permissions where not strictly needed. No clear guidance → local interpretation.
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Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – former Lorne Forest District 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? Prepare short/medium/ Yes As part of the business No, not a target. long term plans for plan process. roading programmes. Staff will follow Yes Not all staff now used liveried A target? customer care principles, vehicles and use of corporate be identified by clothing is still a personal choice corporate clothing and except in formal situations e.g. liveried vans and sites public events, etc. identified by Forestry Commission Scotland corporate signage. Pursue neighbouring Yes Negotiations have not always been Yes, needs to be parties to accept their successful, a complex area, advice continued on legal obligation in relation sought from area land agent grounds of fairness to shared fencing costs. and considerable persistence by and protection of Forestry Commission Scotland Forestry Commission staff needed. Scotland interests. Principles apply to other neighbourly issues. Maintain a coupe Yes Standard paper system, Not a target, more record system. gradually improved following standardised staff dedication. electronic system likely to be introduced soon.
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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 6 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
Local Plans Local Guidance Forest Design Plans Selection and treatment of Natural Reserves SSSI Management Plans Dealing with Windblow Recreation and Social Strategy Landscape, clearfelling, restructuring & coupe Size Deer Management Strategy & Deer Complaints Management Unit Plans SAM Plans Harvesting non-timber Products Fire Plan Illegal/unauthorised use of the Forest Waste Management and Pollution Control Low Impact Silviculture Plan Safety Policy Statement Community Involvement/ Stakeholder Consultation Thinning Plan Deadwood Roads Plan Species selection Sales Plan Native Trees and Shrubs Business Plan Surface water acidification Chemicals Minimisation Plan Species / Habitat specific notes Conservation / Biodiversity Plan Planning and construction of tracks Coupe Plans Whole Tree Harvesting Mull Strategy Fencing Risk Assessments Surveys Resumption System (HSM36) Monitoring Progress of FDP operations Mull roads strategy Planning and Managing Open space Stocking Density Monitoring Achievement reporting Cultural Heritage Strategy Hardwood Strategy Invasive Species Timber Procurement
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Appendix five: Portfolio analysis scoring for each block including diagram illustrating spread of blocks against economic benefits and non market benefits
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 and Tay) on the application of the scoring system. This was 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 design 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 make sure that 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.
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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 district 4 average (Note: establishment and maintenance to include all expenditure up to year 10 needed to establish crops. Remember to include District average 2 whole forest design plan issues such as boundary fencing Higher than the district 0 maintenance costs.) average
Capital road cost Fully roaded 10
New and upgrade over next 10 years < 2 km to build 7
(Note: 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
(Note - 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 >100 ha 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 Ha 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 (Note: as highlighted in Forestry Commission Scotland 4 - 5 species 8 biodiversity strategy – red squirrel, capercaillie, black grouse, 3 species 6 pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly, chequered skipper butterfly, juniper, Scottish wood ant, Wilson’s pouchwort, twinflower, small 2 species 3 cow wheat.) 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
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Appendix five: Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
Score WIAT Large population (>5000)/well 10 developed facilities (Note – only woodlands falling into the Forestry Commission 8 Scotland woods in and around towns criteria can score any Large population (>5000)/ 4 points.) minimal facilities 2 Small population (2000- 5000)/well developed facilities 0 Small population (2000- 5000)/minimal facilities N/A Community engagement (including schools) Signed agreement 5 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 (>25%) 5 of an existing core habitat (*Core habitat area defined as regionally significant (>10,000 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 – helps 8 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 silvicultural systems and as a consequence deliver non- <5% 0 market benefits.)
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Appendix five: Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
Forest block H+M Est & Roads Oth Total Cons BAP Native WIAT Community Recreation FHN NP/NSA Thin Total Maint income economic designation species treespp NMB score score Knapdale 6 0 5 2 13 10 8 6 0 5 2 5 8 2 46
Glen Nant 6 4 10 0 20 10 3 10 0 3 3 5 1 0 35
Barcaldine 10 4 7 2 23 6 8 2 0 5 3 2 1 3 30
Inverawe 10 4 7 0 21 6 8 4 0 1 2 5 1 3 30
Cadderlie 1 0 7 0 8 10 6 6 0 0 2 5 8 0 37
Aros Park 6 4 10 1 21 3 0 10 0 5 5 0 0 0 23
Glen Creran 6 2 2 1 11 10 6 4 0 5 3 3 0 2 33
Fearnoch 10 4 2 2 18 6 3 2 0 3 3 5 1 3 26
Lettermore 6 4 10 1 21 6 0 1 0 5 5 0 1 3 21
Garmony 6 4 7 2 19 6 0 4 0 1 3 5 1 2 22
Appin 3 2 7 1 13 6 6 6 0 3 2 0 1 3 27
Corranbuie 6 4 7 1 18 6 6 4 0 1 2 2 1 0 22
Minard Castle 10 2 7 0 19 3 1 6 0 5 2 1 0 2 20
Torinturk 10 4 7 1 22 1 6 2 0 1 1 2 0 2 15
Inverinan 10 2 7 1 20 1 3 4 0 1 2 2 0 2 15
Ardcastle 6 2 10 0 18 3 0 4 0 1 2 1 0 5 16
Glen Orchy 10 2 2 0 14 4 6 2 0 3 2 2 1 0 20
Kinachreachan 10 4 7 0 21 2 0 2 0 1 2 5 1 0 13
Kilmichael 10 2 5 2 19 1 3 1 2 3 2 1 0 2 15
Ormaig 10 2 7 1 20 3 3 4 0 1 1 2 0 0 14
Deer Hill 6 4 5 1 16 1 3 4 0 3 2 2 1 2 18
Succoth 10 2 5 0 17 2 1 1 0 3 3 5 1 0 16
Achachenna 0 2 10 0 12 6 0 10 0 1 1 3 0 0 21
Inverliever 10 2 0 2 14 4 8 2 0 1 2 2 0 0 19
Glen Lochy South 1 2 10 0 13 1 3 1 0 5 3 5 1 0 19
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Appendix five: Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
Forest block H+M Est & Roads Oth Total Cons BAP Native WIAT Community Recreation FHN NP/NSA Thin Total Maint income economic designation species treespp NMB score score Kilmory 10 2 7 1 20 0 0 2 2 1 2 1 1 3 12
Meall Mhor 6 4 7 2 19 4 3 2 0 1 0 2 0 0 12
Deucheran 6 4 2 2 14 3 6 2 0 1 2 2 0 0 16
Beinn Ghuilean 0 4 5 0 9 3 1 0 2 3 2 1 5 3 20
Grogport 6 4 7 1 18 1 3 1 0 1 2 1 0 2 11
Cologin 1 2 10 0 13 1 1 1 8 1 3 0 0 0 15
Ardchonnel 6 2 5 1 14 1 6 2 0 1 1 2 0 0 13
Coulaghailtro 10 4 7 1 22 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 3
Salen 6 2 5 0 13 6 0 2 0 1 2 0 1 0 12
Ardmore 6 2 7 0 15 2 0 1 0 3 3 0 1 0 10
Collaig 10 2 2 1 15 1 3 2 0 1 1 2 0 0 10
East Lussa 6 4 5 2 17 1 3 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 8
Eredine 10 2 0 2 14 3 3 1 0 1 2 1 0 0 11
Salachry 10 2 10 0 22 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 2
Aros 1 4 10 1 16 2 1 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 8
Crannich 6 0 10 0 16 2 0 0 0 3 3 0 0 0 8
Dalbuie 6 4 7 1 18 1 1 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 6
Balinoe 1 0 10 0 11 2 2 1 0 1 2 3 1 0 12
Glen Forsa 1 0 10 0 11 6 0 1 0 0 2 3 0 0 12
Inverneil 10 4 2 1 17 1 1 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 6
Guesdale 3 4 7 1 15 3 0 1 0 1 0 2 0 0 7
Quinish 3 2 5 0 10 4 1 1 0 3 2 0 1 0 12
Brenchoillie 6 2 0 2 10 3 3 1 0 1 2 2 0 0 12
Three Bridges 6 2 2 1 11 3 0 4 0 1 0 2 0 0 10
Ardura 3 2 7 0 12 2 0 2 0 0 1 3 1 0 9
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Appendix five: Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
Forest block H+M Est & Roads Oth Total Cons BAP Native WIAT Community Recreation FHN NP/NSA Thin Total Maint income economic designation species treespp NMB score score Auch 3 2 5 0 10 0 1 1 0 1 5 3 0 0 11
Skipness 6 4 2 1 13 1 1 2 0 1 2 1 0 0 8
Glen Lochy North 6 4 2 1 13 0 0 0 0 1 2 3 1 0 7
Glen Shira 6 2 0 1 9 4 0 2 0 1 1 2 1 0 11
West Lussa 3 4 5 1 13 1 1 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 6
Tiroran 1 0 5 0 6 6 0 0 0 1 2 3 0 0 12
Loch Avich 6 0 2 1 9 1 3 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 8
Lochdon 3 2 7 0 12 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 4
High Clachaig 3 4 2 1 10 3 1 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 6
Aintuim 6 0 2 1 9 2 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 5
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Appendix five: Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
Portfolio analysis scoring by forest block
25
SALACHRY
COULAGHAILTRO TORINTURK BARCALDINE
20 DALBUIE CORRANBUIE INVERAWE GLEN NANT
AROS 15
Forest Block THREE BRIDGES LOCHDON KNAPDALE 10 GLEN CRERAN
ECONOMIC BENEFITS BEINN GHUILEAN
AINTUIM CADDERLIE 5 TIRORAN
0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 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 West Argyll Forest District Whitegates Lochgilphead Argyll PA31 8RS Tel: 01546 602518 Fax: 01546 603381 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland
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Published by - Forestry Commission Scotland - December 2009 © Crown Copyright 2009
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