Forestry Commission Scotland serves as part of the Scottish Government's The role of Scotland’s National Forest Estate and strategic directions Environment and Forestry Directorate and is responsible to Scottish Ministers. Forest Enterprise Scotland is an agency of Forestry Commission Scotland charged with managing the National Forest Estate. The role of

Scotland’s National Forest Estate and strategic directions

Healthy Productive Treasured Accessible Cared for Good value 2013-2016 Contact Forest Enterprise Scotland Head Office If you need this publication in an alternative format, Published by - Forestry Commission Scotland - April 2013 1 Highlander Way ISBN - 978 0 85538 883 6 for example, in large print or in another language, © Crown Copyright 2013 Inverness please contact: The Diversity Team All photography from Forestry Commission Picture Library IV2 7GB Forestry Commission unless otherwise stated. Designed by Whitenoise Creative 2013-2016 Tel: 01463 232 811 Silvan House for Forestry Commission Scotland, Edinburgh Fax: 01463 243 846 231 Corstorphine Road E-mail: [email protected] Edinburgh EH12 7AT Web: www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland Tel: 0131 314 6575

E-mail: [email protected] FCFC137 WN 2K APRIL13 Scotland’s National Forest Estate

About this document The role of Scotland’s National Forest Estate This document describes the role and strategic Tha an sgrìobhainn seo a' toirt cunntas air obair agus and strategic directions for 2013-2016 directions for Scotland’s National Forest Estate. slighe ro-innleachdail Oighreachd na Coille Nàiseanta It replaces the National Forest Estate Strategic Plan Alba. Tha seo a' dol an àite Phlana Ro-innleachdail

2009-2013. Oighreachd na Coille Nàiseanta 2009-2013. 2013-2016 Forest Enterprise Scotland, which is an agency Tha Iomairt Choilltean Alba, fo-bhuidheann aig Forewords 2 of Forestry Commission Scotland, manages the Coimisean na Coilltearachd Alba, a' manaidseadh na h- Connecting with national priorities 4 Estate on behalf of Scottish Ministers. The Forestry Oighreachd as leth Mhinistearan na h-Alba. Tha Plana What Scotland’s national forest estate is for 6 Commission Scotland Corporate Plan and Annual Corporra agus Aithisg Bhliadhnail Choimisein na Introducing the national forest estate 8 Reports (see www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland) give Coilltearachd (rim faicinn www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland) The story of the estate 11 more information on Forest Enterprise Scotland, le barrachd fiosrachaidh air Iomairt Choilltean Alba, agus its governance, corporate goals, targets and mu choinneamh riaghladh, amasan corparra, agus Healthy 19 performance measures. slatan-tomhais coileanaidh na buidhne. Productive 23 We’ve made the vital link between the Estate Tha sinn air dàimh gu math brìgheil a chruthachadh Treasured 29 and those who look after it by introducing some eadar an Oighreachd Nàiseanta agus na daoine a tha Accessible 35 of our staff at the beginning of each section. a' coimhead às a dèidh; le fiosrachadh air cuid den Cared for 39 luchd-obrach againn aig toiseach gach earrann. Good value 45 Priorities and action 48

2 strategy Scotland’s National Forest Estate

Paul Wheelhouse Simon Hodge The Minister for Environment and Climate Change Chief Executive for Forest Enterprise Scotland

Scotland’s National Forest Estate is amongst one of the nation’s great assets and plays an extremely The main role of Forest Enterprise Scotland is to manage Scotland’s National Forest Estate. It is 2013-2016 important role in combating climate change, as well as acting as a key recreational resource for the a privilege. We are excited about the potential to make more of this asset that occupies 9% of people of Scotland. Scotland’s land area. We remain committed to our forest management and timber production roots. But we are also showing that with clear strategic thinking, good spatial planning and Since taking up my Ministerial role I have been amazed at the range of benefits and services it provides a broadening range of skills and expertise, the estate can offer much more besides. In the across the length and breadth of Scotland. Timber, sustainably sourced from the Estate, has provided the parlance of ecosystem services, we are growing the supporting, provisioning, regulating and basis for the emergence of Scotland’s important and growing wood-using sectors. The Estate is one of cultural services provided both from the Estate’s woodlands and its diverse open land area. Scotland’s most significant resources for outdoor recreation, makes important contributions to our rural tourism economy and the enhancement of our urban areas. The role of the Estate in community We are conscious that the Estate is a public asset. Ours is a stewardship role. We continue development is growing, with opportunities for community renewables now complementing existing to explore how best to discharge this responsibility in 21st century Scotland, working with opportunities for community woodland management, woodland crofts and affordable housing. communities and partners to develop the Estate to deliver against current local and national priorities, whilst also ensuring that we manage the Estate sustainably and improve it for the The growing emphasis on integrated land management in a changing climate exemplifies our Land Use next generation. This document lays out the next chapter of the Estate’s story, that now spans Strategy and is helping us to explore how we can enhance environmental quality and biodiversity, and nearly 100 years. deliver ecosystem services in sustainably managed and productive landscapes. The strategic directions laid out in this document will help further develop the multi-purpose role of the Estate as an asset with the potential to benefit every person in Scotland and as a key element of Scotland’s outstanding and much valued environment.

May 2013 May 2013 2 3 strategy

Connecting with national priorities Connecting with what we do on the ground

The National Forest Estate is diverse and delivers a • The Estate has a major role to play in delivering against the six themes of the We are currently reviewing our land management surprising breadth of benefits over a range of Scottish Scottish Forestry Strategy and Forestry Commission Scotland’s target outcomes: planning system: how we link national commitments Government priorities: • Economy: Competitive and innovative businesses contributing to growth in and decision-making to local action. We will renew our District Strategic Plans in 2013 to make these links more • We align our work to Scotland Performs – the the Scottish Economy; explicit. This will be informed by a national and regional Scottish Government’s performance framework. • Community: Improved health and wellbeing of people and their communities; spatial analysis, which will help us discuss with The ‘priorities and actions’ section at the end of • Environment: A high quality, robust and adaptable environment. stakeholders the appropriate balance of objectives for this document links to Scotland Performs. • The Estate has important contributions to make to other sectoral strategies: each land management area. This analysis and the • The National Forest Estate is one of the biggest • Government Economic Strategy; resultant District Strategic Plans will be subject to public opportunities for the Scottish Government to consultation and Strategic Environmental Assessment. directly implement the principles of the Land Use • Tourism Scotland 2020; In this way we will be able to better target our Strategy. In line with the Land Use Strategy, we • Good Places, Better Health, and Equally Well; resources and management prescriptions, and be aim to deliver multiple benefits from the Estate, • Scottish Sustainable Communities Initiative more ambitious where the benefits will be greatest. through working in partnership with nature and and Community Empowerment Action Plan; For example we want to focus habitat management by linking people with the land. • Skills for Scotland, and More Choices, More Chances; and restoration effort where it will have highest impact, • There are important opportunities to implement • Curriculum for Excellence; to focus tourism investments where they will derive the Scottish Government’s climate change • Out there - sport and physical activity in the outdoors and most benefit, and to look at how we can increase commitments by harnessing the ability of trees Reaching Higher, Scotland’s national strategy for sport; timber productivity in areas best suited to providing to sequester carbon, by providing environmental quality timber. services like contributing to flood mitigation, and • The Outdoor Access Code; by ensuring the Estate and its biodiversity is robust • National Planning Framework and the Central Scotland and able to adapt to climate change. This links Green Network Action Programme; closely with the Estate’s substantial contribution • Partnership Plans for the Cairngorms National Park and to the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park; • River Basin Management Plans; • Scotland’s Wild Deer: A National Approach. 4 5 strategy Scotland’s National Forest Estate

The purpose of the Estate was laid out in the 2006 Scottish Forestry Strategy, Healthy, achieving good environmental and but has evolved slightly since that time and can now be expressed as: silvicultural condition in a changing climate • Safeguarding ‘national treasures’; • Delivering economic, forestry for people and community benefits; Productive providing sustainable economic • Timber production for market stability and development; benefits from the land

• Contributing to the Scottish Government’s climate change targets; 2013-2016 • Landscape-scale management for biodiversity and ecosystem services; Treasured as a multi-purpose resource that sustains • Supporting policy, R&D and exemplars of land use integration and best practice. We have drawn on livelihoods, improves quality of life, and offers What Scotland’s these approaches in presenting involvement and enjoyment the role of the Estate through national forest six aspirations: that the estate is for: National Forest Estate is: Accessible, local woodlands and national The role of the Estate can also be described in terms of the ecosystem services treasures that are well promoted, welcoming it has the potential to provide: and open for all • Supporting services such as primary production, nutrient dispersal and cycling; • Provisioning services such as timber, food (farmed and wild), water, minerals, energy (hydropower, wind energy and biomass fuels); Cared for, working with nature and respecting landscapes, natural and cultural heritage • Regulating services such as carbon sequestration and climate regulation, flood management, purification of water and air, detoxification of contaminated sites and biological reservoirs for crop pollination and pest and disease control; Good value, exemplary, effective and efficient • Cultural services around recreational experiences, cultural, intellectual and delivery of public benefits spiritual inspiration and scientific advancement. Forestry Stewardship Council and PEFC approved sustainable woodland management certification and ISO14001 Environmental Management Systems accreditation. 6 7 strategy

Introducing the national forest estate Scotland’s National Forest Estate

Lael Forest includes one of the The National Forest Estate covers nearly 9% of The dry and sandy soils of eastern Scotland tend first small scale hydro schemes on the NFE. Scotland’s land mass, extending to over 650,000ha. to support pine forests like Culbin, Roseisle and It comprises forests, woodlands and open ground. Lossiemouth on the shores of the Moray Firth and Widely distributed around Scotland, the Estate has Tentsmuir at the mouth of the Tay, but Clashindarroch developed over the last 93 years in response to the and Fetteresso, in the more fertile Grampian foothills forestry objectives of successive governments. Around are more suited to high-yielding Sitka spruce. 2013-2016 two-thirds is woodland and one-third is open ground, Across Perthshire, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs including agricultural land, mountains, peat bogs, and the central belt of Scotland, the mixed forests water bodies and coast. These habitats and land uses and habitats of the National Forest Estate are part of are a defining feature of Scotland’s internationally the rich landscape tapestry that provides the setting Culbin Forest renowned landscapes. Sunart Oak Woods for much of urban Scotland. Mainly productive pine ancient semi-natural In the west - from Wester Ross down through Skye, growing on a frozen sand In the south east, the rolling hills of the Borders woodland, home to Lochaber, Mull and Argyll - we look after extensive dune system. farmland are interwoven with forests, like the Tweed one of Scotland’s areas of quick-growing conifers (mostly Sitka spruce Valley’s Glentress, which provide extensive outdoor finest collections of in these areas), but we also look after important areas “lower plants”. recreation opportunities, while in the south west, of native woodlands, like the Sunart Oak Woods. larger conifer woodlands spread from Eskdalemuir The North Highlands, the Cairngorm Massif and the across the Southern Uplands to form some of our Easterhouse Woods, Glasgow Great Glen are also renowned for high quality conifer largest forest areas, supporting a concentration Urban woodlands managed forests set within the grandeur of mountain and of saw mills and many forestry jobs. in consultation with the local community. moorland landscapes. The high yield forests along the 7stanes at Great Glen provide a magnificent backdrop for tourism Glentress but here too native woodland restoration is a high One of the UK’s priority, as exemplified by our work to restore the premier mountain Galloway Forest District Caledonian pinewoods in Inshriach and Glenmore. bike trail centres. produces around 700,000 m3 of timber per annum

8 9 strategy Scotland’s National Forest Estate

1919 The story of the estate 2013-2016 The origins of Scotland's National Forest Estate go back nearly one hundred years. The Forestry Act of 1919 and the need to develop a strategic timber reserve coincided with post-war opportunities to acquire large areas of land, but even before this the government was recognising the need to develop Britain's forest resources.

2013

10 11 the story of the estate

Between the wars, the Forestry Commission's Estate The post-war era also saw increased recognition of the The story of Scotland’s National Forest Estate over the continued to grow, and by 1937 the Commission was need for access and recreation. The public were given a past 30 years has been one of diversification, as our working with the Board of Trade on detailed plans for ‘right to roam’ in state-owned forests and the first Forest objectives have broadened, continuing to produce felling in the event of another conflict. Parks were established. Also at this time the seeds were timber for the national processing sector and local sown of today’s understanding of landscape design – use, but also to include recreation, community and After 1945 work began on restoring the forest Estate. unfortunately too late for some of the straight-edged environmental benefits. Many newly-acquired felled or neglected woodlands early plantings. From the 1970s, conservation and were planted, but the availability of land for new forests The post-War forests are now being carefully amenity issues grew in importance, with a new was mainly in areas unsuitable for food production, restructured as they reach maturity, although where emphasis on woodland diversity, broadleaves, and although some of these were not ideal for forestry either. trees grow less quickly, change will take longer. Today creating a sympathetic landscape. For the first time, Scotland’s National Forest Estate is managed as a In the early years of the Estate, foresters turned to North forests were seen as important wildlife reserves. Also at productive, recreation and environmental resource, America for productive trees that would suit our soils and this time, the value of Scotland’s extensive bog habitats comprising a range of habitats and a diversity of climate. One in particular – Sitka spruce – became the started to be recognised, bringing a halt to extensive woodland types. cornerstone of the Scottish timber-processing industry, woodland creation on peatlands. supporting thousands of jobs.

12 13 the story of the estate Scotland’s National Forest Estate

‘Serried ranks of conifers’ We are restoring not only ancient woodland sites that woodlands in and around towns, and we are closely The extensive 20th century conifer plantings were were planted with non-native species, but also rare involved in transforming Scotland’s legacy of derelict once described as ‘serried ranks of conifers marching open habitats such as lowland raised mires and industrial land. over the hills’. blanket bogs whose value was once overlooked. We We have contributed to around 100 community Modern forest design is much better at creating have also been able to re-align the straight edges of woodland partnerships since 2000, helping people diversity and blending with the landscape. plantations and achieve a better, more sympathetic 2013-2016 get involved with managing their local woodlands, landscape and better integration between woodland We still need some tightly-spaced trees to produce and supporting groups that want to buy or lease part and open ground. straight stems for high quality timber, but as these of the Estate through the National Forest Land Scheme trees grow older we thin them out where we can The Estate now has national importance for red for their own silvicultural management, for the to let in the light and at treasured sites create the squirrels, capercaillie, osprey, and many rare plants provision of affordable housing or for community ‘cathedral groves’ that so many of our visitors admire. and lichens. It is also Scotland’s main recreation power generation. We are significant partners in provider, offering unique walking, cycling and wildlife- the management of Scotland’s two National Parks. watching amenities, and contributing an estimated The National Forest Estate is being increasingly £165m annually to the tourism economy. recognised as an important carbon store and we are We have extended the benefits of forestry to urban working to steward this resource wisely, recognising areas through our Woods In and Around Towns the importance of carbon locked up both in tree programme. In the last 10 years we have created growth and in the Estate’s soils. around 1400ha (2000 football pitches) of new

14 15 the story of the estate

Realigning our land holding The National Forest Land Scheme allows Scotland’s National Forest Estate 2013-2016 community organisations and non- governmental organisations (NGOs) to buy In order to increase the delivery of benefits we have been changing or lease NFE land in order to provide public the composition of Scotland’s National Forest Estate by selling land benefits. These houses were built by the Albyn and forests that contribute least public benefits, and re-investing in Housing Society using Scottish timber, and offer priority areas. affordable accommodation to local people. An ongoing programme of portfolio analysis is guiding where to invest most effort in improving the existing Estate, and to make decisions about what to sell and what to buy in our Repositioning Programme. The criteria for sale and acquisition are agreed with Ministers and published on the FCS website along with details of the area and value of land bought and sold in each year.

Between 2005 and 2011 we sold about 21,000ha of land and acquired about 20,000ha.

The effects of the policy have been to: • Allow us to create new woodlands, currently around 1000ha per year; • Give more people an opportunity to enjoy the Estate by creating new woodland and increasing our land holdings in and around urban areas; • Provide opportunities to explore the integration of forestry, agriculture, and other land uses; • Improve management efficiency by rationalising the location of forest areas and reducing areas of high cost/low output.

16 17 strategy Scotland’s National Forest Estate

Healthy forests don’t just happen, they have to be planned for. I’m working on a new spatial planning strategy for the Estate that makes better use of the information we collect about our land and forests to ensure they have a sustainable future. In drawing up our plans we need to take 2013-2016 account of a whole range of things like soil type, water-quality, climatic exposure, important species and habitats, and how people are wanting to access the forest. Anticipating climate change means revising our understanding of species suitability and management systems. Healthy New GIS and remote sensing technologies are giving us new perspectives on integrated land management planning, achieving good environmental and silvicultural on everything from monitoring tree condition in a changing climate diseases to planning recreation sites and regenerating native woodlands. It’s awesome to think that the work I do now will have an impact on the landscape for years - centuries - to come.

Helen Sellars, Planning Framework Project Manager

18 19 healthy Scotland’s National Forest Estate 2013-2016

This section is about the health of the environment, rather the Estate isn’t best placed to deliver these services, there than delivering health benefits to people (that’s covered in may be scope through the repositioning programme to Treasured and Accessible). increase the Estate’s contribution through land acquisition. Phytophthora ramorum Our increasingly ecological approach to land We will help the Estate to adapt to climate change and on Japanese larch management means working with natural processes become more resilient to pressure. We are diversifying This fungal disease was first and within the limits of soil and climatic conditions. We species composition and choosing the best seed sources detected on larch in Scotland in are reducing management intensity where we can, for for changing conditions, as well as diversifying forest 2010. It is fatal to the larch trees it example by having longer rotations and using natural structure. We have contingency plans for major disasters infects. There is no known cure. We have acted quickly to fell infected regeneration. We are committed to high quality such as storm damage and fire, and are implementing and surrounding trees in the initial silviculture and increasingly using alternatives to clear- strategies to deal with new pests and diseases like outbreak sites in Argyll. Regular felling where soils and climate allow – we think this might Dothistroma needle blight of pine, Phytophthora ramorum helicopter surveys are undertaken work on about 20% of the Estate’s forest area. We are disease on larch and Chalara fraxinea on ash. and in 2012 these picked up more exploring how to best steward the carbon resources We are committed to dealing with invasive plants and extensive infection in Galloway, locked up in both the Estate’s trees and soils. animals that threaten habitats and biodiversity, from windblown inoculum. The scale of our land holdings gives us a unique ability to including the rapid-spreading and stifling Rhododendron It is with heavy hearts that we are plan our land management at a landscape/catchment ponticum. In some places we control the introduced grey rapidly felling several hundred scale to look at how we can combine land uses and squirrel to protect red squirrel refugia and to try and hectares of larch in Galloway objectives to deliver the widest range of benefits. This prevent the deadly squirrel pox disease spreading Forest Park to help stem the includes developing habitat networks, often based around through Scotland. spread of this disease. We will be river systems to also deliver water quality benefits, and revising our land management Grazing and browsing by animals is an important natural potentially make a contribution to flood alleviation. Where plans as we look for new process in shaping forests and other habitats, but whilst it opportunities to diversify the can promote diversity, too much can be damaging. We forest and its landscape. actively manage deer populations to keep their impact positive. In some places we graze cattle and sheep to We have around 67,500ha designated for help manage the land. conservation importance, and more than 350 sites designated for archaeological heritage.

20 21 productive

I know I’m working for a large organisation but it feels like I’m Scotland’s National Forest Estate working for everyone who gets a benefit from our forests, both now and in the future. That makes me very proud. As a forest manager my job is to plan, organise and plant the next generation of forests. We need to be clear on our mix of objectives for each site, be it conservation, recreation, community or mainly timber supply. I am responsible for planting as many as a million trees a year.

We’re now implementing the plans that are creating the multi- 2013-2016 purpose forests of the future. We know we’re working for an organisation, but it really feels like we’re working for everyone.

John Mulgrew, Forest Manager Productive

providing sustainable economic benefits from the land

22 23 productive Scotland’s National Forest Estate 2013-2016 We aim to increase the contribution of the National 2007/08 prices, or 0.5% of gross value added to the A Valuation of the Economic and Social Contribution Forest Estate to the economy of Scotland and its Scottish economy1. As private sector timber supplies have of Forestry for People in Scotland. Research Report regions and recognise the potential of the Estate to grown, the proportion of Scotland’s supply from the for Forestry Commission Scotland. Forest Research. assist transition to a low carbon economy. We are National Forest Estate has diminished, but still represents Edinburgh. Available at: working to secure improved data, but we know that the about 40% of national production. This guaranteed www.forestry.gov.uk/fr/forestryforpeople Estate supports a significant proportion of the 31,000 jobs supply is highly valued by the sector as providing stability in forest management timber processing and forest in the timber market and the confidence for continued related recreation and tourism, commensurate with it long-term investment in the timber processing and representing around 35% of Scotland’s woodland and down-stream jobs. 40% of its timber harvest. Many of these jobs are in As we increase the diversity of the Estate, our timber will fragile rural areas. come from a greater range of species. Sitka spruce will Forest management and timber production activities remain highly important because of its ability to offer alone add some £190m of gross value added to the good growth rates and desirable timber in Scottish In meeting our responsibility to promote timber market stability and Scottish economy (direct, indirect and induced 2007/08 conditions but we intend to manage at least a quarter development, we aim to provide at least three million cubic prices). We also recognise the importance of our of our expanding broadleaved woodlands to produce metres of softwood timber every year on a sustainable basis. communities, recreation and tourism work in generating quality hardwoods and fuel wood. As a wider range By co-ordinating information from individual forest plans we know local economic activity. The Estate makes many of timber is harvested, we will market it in ways that exactly when and where harvesting will take place and can predict contributions to wider economic activity, for example encourage value adding and additional jobs in and schedule timber production for many years into the future. manufacturing and processing. through our renewables programme, deer stalking, About 1 million tonnes of farming and the release of small parcels of land for Managing the Estate provides work in rural areas and carbon are locked up in built development and affordable housing. we will use our work programmes to promote the the trees on Scotland's The increasing diversity of timber producing species on the Estate will Timber production from the National Forest Estate was development of the forestry and land management National Forest Estate provide new opportunities to develop employment in manufacturing and traditional crafts. the under-pinning basis for the development of Scotland’s sectors, recognising the benefits of contributing to every year. timber processing sector – with the total contribution of local economic activity, especially in the more fragile Combating climate change - a role for UK forests 'TSO', 2009 Scottish grown timber now worth over £460m/year at rural areas. We are looking at ways that Scotland’s National Forest Estate can help meet anticipated demand in the biomass sector, with a particular focus on underused materials such as branches and tree tops. 1 http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/fcrn102.pdf/$FILE/fcrn102.pdf 24 25 productive

We will also take opportunities to increase agricultural use We are currently creating around 1000ha of new woodland every year Scotland’s National Forest Estate 2013-2016 of the Estate where this is consistent with environmental From Selkirk to Peebles, seven forests supporting the Scottish Government's woodland expansion policy. objectives. We already have over 100 agricultural tenancies and form the Tweed Valley Forest Park. Suitable land is acquired through our repositioning programme, or grazing lets extending to 17,000ha, but we hope to bring more Together they provide one of Scotland’s leased through our short-term leasing scheme. These new woods are most popular outdoor attractions, of our open ground into active agricultural use. Where buildings designed in accordance with the recommendations of the Woodland drawing over 300,000 visitors a year and suitable land are available, we are creating starter farms Expansion Advisory Group to be productive, accessible and good for to the area. The gateway to the park to help integrate farming and forestry. We will also look at the biodiversity, while promoting land use integration and helping meet is at Glentress Peel, where in 2011 we sustainable economic potential of the extensive moorlands on Scotland’s greenhouse gas reduction targets. completed an £8.4m investment in our the Estate. visitor facilities, a real showcase We are working with Visit Scotland, the National Parks, the tourism We will work with the wind and hydro sectors to realise the welcome for our visitors to enjoy way- business community and local partners to find new ways to harness Estate’s renewable energy potential, working towards the marked trails, learn about ospreys and our natural and cultural heritage and develop the Estate’s potential Scottish Government’s target of 2GW from the Estate by other wildlife in our Wild Watch facility, for tourism. We have developed the Estate into a major tourism 2020, whilst achieving a reasonable balance with other relax in the café, take a tree top resource. Direct spending from National Forest Estate-related tourism adventure or hire a bike and ride the objectives. We recognise that renewable developments not only and recreation is estimated to give rise to a total gross value added to 7stanes mountain bike trails. support the transition to a low carbon economy, but play a part the Scottish economy of around £230 million (2011/12 prices)2. It has in encouraging investments in high quality jobs and businesses. The Tweed Valley is just one part of already made Scotland one of the world’s premier mountain biking We will work to ensure communities are engaged and benefit south Scotland’s 7stanes locations and is raising Scotland’s reputation as a wildlife-watching and from our renewable developments, through either direct mountain bike network, out-door sporting destination. We are improving our tourism offer, for community Benefits, investment opportunities or community which provides a £9m example we are currently making major upgrades to our visitor centres economic benefit every led developments. Where woodland removal occurs, we will and developing a network of wildlife viewing destinations across year (Ekos, 2008) and work with developers to implement the Scottish Government’s Scotland. We are also working with businesses and partners to seek The Central Scotland Green Network is a national priority has gained international woodland removal policy and where appropriate apply new opportunities and promote the tourism potential of the Estate, for in the Scottish Government’s National Planning Framework accolades for its compensatory planting measures. example through the 7stanes Mountain Biking CiC. Through our (NPF2), recognising the value of high quality greenspace mountain bike offering. partnerships with Forest Holidays and Camping in the Forest we are We will work with the biomass energy sector to utilise the wood as a tool for urban regeneration. investing in high quality forest-based accommodation. fuel that can be sustainably managed from the Estate. By contributing to this and similar programmes we are helping to improve Scotland’s urban areas and to make

Scotland an attractive place to locate and invest. 2 A Valuation of the Economic and Social Contribution of Forestry for People in Scotland. Research Report for Forestry Commission Scotland. Forest Research. Edinburgh. Available at: http://www.forestry.gov.uk/fr/forestryforpeople 26 27 strategy

Things have changed a lot during my 25 years working as a forester. Scotland’s National Forest Estate We’ve shown that producing timber can work alongside doing a huge amount of good for habitats and species, and we’re learning all the time. For example, we now have fewer deer fences to prevent woodland grouse flying into them. Thanks to the resources of Forest Enterprise Scotland I can make sure things happen when it best suits the wildlife. It’s satisfying to manage conservation projects on the large-scale needed by species ranging from wood ants to capercaillie. I’m a keen nature photographer and I often find myself spending my days off in my outdoor workplace. The National Forest Estate is a fantastic place for nature and its 2013-2016 great that everyone can enjoy it.

Colin Leslie, Environment Officer Treasured

as a multi-purpose resource that sustains livelihoods, improves quality of life, and offers involvement and enjoyment

28 29 treasured

The National Forest Estate is one of Scotland’s greatest assets, The Estate is also a good place for volunteering and gaining hard edges and creating a more natural tree line. We plan Scotland’s National Forest Estate providing economic, social and environmental benefits to the employment skills. In the past two years we have sought to the size and shape of timber harvesting areas to fit into the people of Scotland, wherever they happen to live. provide opportunities through third sector organisations for landscape, although the windy Scottish weather sometimes over 200 young people a year to gain employment skills, and over-rides our efforts! We are committed to providing a high It’s also home to many treasures, recognised for their natural in addition provided for 30 apprenticeships places. We will quality countryside experience, with well designed and well and cultural heritage or as exceptional woodlands. continue to use the Estate as a place for volunteering and used facilities free from litter, fly-tipping and clutter. Spectacular views, rare plants and ancient monuments all gaining employment skills. contribute to a vital sense of place and belonging, whether We recognise the value of the Estate as a place for they’re found on the doorstep of our cities or in the furthest As guardian of Scotland’s National Forest Estate, we are research and development of best practice. We have

reaches of our wildernesses. committed to creating more uniquely special places across over 500 experimental sites and long-term monitoring plots 2013-2016 the Estate and to delivering benefits to an increasingly across the Estate and many of the now-accepted principles With free and open access encouraged throughout the Estate, diverse range of Scotland’s people. of British forestry and wildlife management underwent Scots, and visitors from around the world, can connect with practical development on the Estate. The Estate is being our forests and wide open spaces, and enjoy the diversity of The visual attractiveness of the Estate is an important part of its used as a place for trial species reintroductions including landscapes shaped by our management of woodland, appeal. We use professional landscape architects to help us beavers and sea eagles. farmland and wild places. design forests that complement the landscape, redesigning We recognise the value to local communities and communities of interest, in getting involved with the National Forest Estate – both through what can be achieved on the Estate, and because involvement can strengthen One-flowered wintergreen Moneses uniflora communities. We want to encourage local people to get One-flowered wintergreen is found in timber-producing pine plantations and involved with using and managing local Estate woodlands native Caledonian pine forests and can be hard to spot amongst the small so we will actively engage with local communities, be open shrubs and decaying pine needles in the shade of the forest floor. It is one of to work in partnership, and through the National Forest Land the rarest plants in Scotland, and FES managed woods contain a significant Scheme, facilitate communities who would like to buy or lease proportion of its national population. part of the Estate. Also known as St Olaf’s candlestick and wood nymph, its long stem bears a single white flower in summer. It appears to benefit from forest management, being spread around by harvesting machinery. Conversely, its small colonies are also sensitive to disturbance. We go to great lengths to identify and safeguard colonies of rare plants and protect them during forest operations.

30 31 treasured

Biodiversity monitoring on Scotland’s National Forest Estate 2013-2016 Working with the the National Forest Estate Laggan community To understand population trends of priority species and We’ve been working with the investigate the impacts of management, FES has set Laggan Forest Trust in up rigorous, long-term monitoring programmes for Strathmashie Forest for nearly capercaillie, black grouse, pearl-bordered fritillary and 15 years now. The focus is on chequered skipper. FES monitoring is now making it Glen Affric – a promoting economic possible to determine national trends for pearl-bordered national treasure sustainability for the local fritillary and chequered skipper. Monitoring red squirrels Glen Affric is one of Scotland’s community through tourism is difficult and costly, so we have set up a trial monitoring most beautiful glens. development. The Trust is programme within four squirrel strongholds to investigate Caledonian pinewoods and currently working up exciting the efficacy and practicality of the preferred method. lochs fit intimately into a plans for a new forest centre We have also been working in partnership to establish dramatic mountain which will benefit both visitors detailed long-term monitoring plots in some of our key landscape. The Glen has to the acclaimed Wolftrax native pinewoods at Glenmore, Glen Garry and the Black one of the largest areas of mountain bike trails and the wood of Rannoch. Findings from researchers have Caledonian pinewood in local community. provided valuable information on the rate of recruitment Scotland. Pioneering and mortality of trees, the length of time that deadwood restoration and expansion persists and the long-term response to different forms of work, which started in the management carried out originally to stimulate natural 1960’s, continues to the regeneration. Some work has also been undertaken in the current day. Glen Affric is a oakwoods at Dalavaich and Glen Nant to understand the National Nature Reserve and development of natural regeneration in response to is internationally renowned. different forms of management. With around half of the We have many sets of fixed point photographs in places 100,000 visitors each year like Glen Affric where three cycles of monitoring have coming from abroad, it is an provided valuable information about habitat development important contributor to the following restoration on ancient woodland sites and local tourism economy. changes in deer populations. 32 33 accessible

My role largely focuses on providing a warm welcome to our visitors and helping Scotland’s National Forest Estate them to make the most of their visit. We have many fantastic resources within the Galloway Forest Park for locals and visitors to enjoy. I’m really lucky, I’m involved in loads of things, from initial website enquiries, to interpretation panels and leaflets to improving access facilities. I work with other organisations and businesses on wildlife tourism projects promoting, and encouraging visitors to experience the fantastic wildlife watching opportunities we have in our region. No one day is the same as the next.

I love meeting new visitors to the Galloway Forest Park, as I know this is likely to 2013-2016 be their first of many visits for years to come.

Lucy Hadley, Recreation Ranger Accessible

local woodlands and national treasures that are well promoted, welcoming and open for all

34 34 35 accessible Scotland’s National Forest Estate Photo trails created by the Fieldfare Trust allow We are encouraging use of the Estate as an outdoor classroom, a green gym, a place to potential visitors to see if a given path will suit them. escape the pressures of modern life, to enjoy outdoor activities and sports and to experience The path to Castle Dounie Users can view countryside routes online through iconic wildlife. Castle Dounie is a classic example of a late photographs and descriptions, taking in surface, path The Scottish Government’s Good Places – Better Health implementation plan recognises that the prehistoric dun: a small stone-built stronghold width, gradients, barriers and amenities such as seats, physical environment that surrounds us is key to our health and wellbeing and that we need to on a rocky knoll in Knapdale, West Argyll, disabled parking, and accessible toilets. create positive physical environments which nurture better health and wellbeing. To quote the intended as much to impress as to defend. FES has worked with the Trust to develop 13 Phototrails 2006 Annual Report of the Chief Medical Officer: “How people feel about their physical Part of the same settlement tradition as brochs (approx 27km) on the Estate. They can be viewed at surroundings, can impact on not just mental health and wellbeing, but also physical disease.” and crannogs, it was included in recent laser www.phototrails.org. We also actively encourage the use of the Estate as a place for outdoor learning – a living scan surveys on the National Forest Estate in 2013-2016 West Argyll. classroom for learning about nature, sustainability and the environment; a place to acquire practical life skills and a great opportunity for exercise and adventure. In line with the Monument Management Plan for Castle Dounie, we recently replaced an We will continue to encourage use of the Estate for health benefits and outdoor learning. Through our Woods In and Around Towns (WIAT) existing informal path with a well-defined and programme we aim to provide more opportunities New recreation facilities are designed to maximise accessibility, and we are working to identify durable new access route with natural stone for more of Scotland’s people to enjoy high- other sites where accessibility can be improved. We are working with stakeholders to make the steps so that more people can appreciate this quality countryside and find health, education, Estate a good place for a whole range of activities including outdoor sport and wildlife viewing. stunning vantage point. skills and community involvement benefits. We Continuing investment in road and track networks is making it easier for the public to reach the have already improved and created dozens of new remoter parts of the Estate as well as assisting our management and conservation work. We urban woodland sites across the Central Belt and host events and provide information aimed at a diverse range of users. We will continue to beyond. We manage these sites to a high invest available resources into high quality facilities that encourage and help visitors environmental standard, and Woodland Wardens experience and enjoy the outdoor environment. All of the money we raise as part of our When a section of the Galloway Forest Park was and Community Rangers are on hand to help recreation provision ploughed back into recreation facilities and the outdoor environment. designated as the UK’s first Dark Sky Park, the people enjoy and get involved in their local woods. move generated worldwide interest. Across the Estate we pay special attention to the most visited areas – we call them visitor zones, including areas with recreation facilities or next to busy public roads. We will invest There are now ten recommended viewing sites, in management of visitor zones to make them attractive and welcoming. including four key sites with interpretation boards, and a number of other places where visitors can simply pull off the road and look at the stars. To find out more, or download the monthly podcast, visit www.forestry.gov.uk/darkskygalloway 36 37 strategy Scotland’s National Forest Estate

I started with the Forestry Commission as a teenager working on cutting squads. But when I got the chance to become a wildlife ranger, it changed everything. Now I’m a conservation manager responsible for everything from newts to golden eagles. 2013-2016 Species management means looking after habitats. This can involve taking out trees, supplementary planting and removing invasive shrubs like rhododendron. Black grouse, for example, do best where the forest edge is open, with good vegetation and well-spaced trees. Cared for I work closely with the operational teams, checking for nests and letting them know when working with nature and and where it’s safe to work. I also track birds of prey to help our understanding of how they fit respecting landscapes, natural into forest systems. It's a job that's also a way of life. and cultural heritage

David Anderson, Conservation Manager

38 39 cared for Scotland’s National Forest Estate 2013-2016 The Estate includes a wide range of special species, long-term increase in broadleaved tree cover from the habitats and features. We have around 67,500ha current 8% of woodland cover to around 20%. Between designated for conservation importance, and more than 2005 and 2012, we established over 3,000 hectares of 350 sites designated for their archaeological heritage. new native broadleaved woodland and 1,800 hectares We are committed to maintaining designated sites in of new native pinewood. This has been undertaken on good condition. newly acquired ground, previously open ground above the existing treeline and ground converted from Ancient woodland sites with a long continuity of plantation forest. We have plans for more landscape woodland management represent around 4% of the scale native woodland expansion projects, for example in Estate. We are restoring around 85% of areas on Lochaber and Galloway. The diversity of our open habitats ancient woodland sites to largely native species, is equally important. From coastal sand dunes to upland using where possible, techniques designed to maximise blanket bogs we are committed to maintaining the best the survival of their rich assemblage of species. The open habitats in good ecological condition. In some remaining areas will be enhanced through our places we are removing plantation forests to restore rare management, but retaining some non-native trees habitats such as lowland raised mires. We have now where they are delivering special benefits. Operations surveyed 60% of the open land on the estate for priority to restore ancient woodland sites with non-native habitats and the data is used to inform planning and plantation species commenced in 3,400 hectares operational work to safe guard important habitats. between 2005 and 2012 and follow-up operations to Training courses in open priority habitat identification progress restoration have been undertaken in 2,200 and internal guidance are helping us develop our habitat hectares. Threats to ancient woodland remnants are management skills. We have consulted on strategic monitored and action is programmed to reduce threat guidance to define our future priorities. During 2011/12 levels. Management of ancient woodland sites has we undertook management work on over 2000 hectares been embedded in our planning. of open habitat to improve the condition of 11 different We are also expanding our native woodlands across the UKBAP priority habitats. In addition 90 hectares of Estate. In the north and east Highlands this includes the blanket bog and 30 hectares of lowland raised bog expansion of ‘Caledonian’ pinewoods, but elsewhere the were restored. focus is on native broadleaves, and we are planning for a

40 41 cared for

Thousands of species find a home on the Estate. The best way to care for Capercaillie Tetrao urogallus Scotland’s National Forest Estate 2013-2016 many of them is to care for their habitats. However, we will identify The largest grouse species in the world, the turkey-sized males are Limestone Pavement habitat particularly vulnerable species for which the National Forest Estate is unmistakable. They spend about half the year on the ground eating plants, and half the year in conifer trees eating needles. A localised restoration, Lassintullich Forest, important and take specific conservation action. In particular, the Forestry species, found in semi-native Scots pinewoods, a rare and vulnerable Commission Scotland Biodiversity Strategy has identified six that are especially habitat, and in productive conifer plantations. In fact, conifer Tay Forest District vulnerable and need the highest level of management that we can provide: plantations are a crucial habitat for this species and capercaillie Limestone pavement is one of the rarest and produce more young in some plantations than in semi-native woods. most species rich UKBAP habitats found on • Red squirrel The UK capercaillie population has declined over the last couple of decades and there is a very real risk of extinction (for what is probably the national forest estate. Our habitat survey • Capercaillie the second time) for this 'Red List' species. However, conservation programme has recently identified previously action has recently slowed the decline and bought valuable time unknown examples in North Highland and Skye. • Black Grouse to understand fully the problems facing this species. At Lassintullich Forest on Tayside, our largest • Pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly area of limestone pavement is being restored • Chequered skipper butterfly from conifer plantations planted decades ago, • Juniper when nature conservation was less of a consideration in forestry. Uncommon species Between 2008 and 2012, more than twenty-thousand hectares of habitat have such as the Northern Brown Argus are also been improved in specific ways for these species, and other actions, such as benefitting from habitat conservation work on culling of predators and non-native competitors, have been undertaken. In limestone habitats. addition, standard forestry operations are being altered to benefit these species. For some species like juniper, new populations have been discovered through systematic survey. The estate is rich in archaeology and cultural heritage features. To date we have recorded some 12,000 historic environment features, their location, extent and description within our integrated planning system. We safeguard archaeological sites through our planning and management and recognise special places and features with local cultural meaning.

42 43 strategy Scotland’s National Forest Estate

I am responsible for harvesting over half a million tonnes of timber from our woodlands in the North of Scotland every year. I am also responsible for making sure the areas that are felled are replanted. That’s about 800ha of replanting every year. Add to that 12 kilometres of road building and 2013-2016 maintenance every year and I’m really kept busy. We negotiate to get the best income possible from our timber, and I keep a very close eye on achieving best value from the resources we invest in the forest. Good Value I run the ‘Log Shop’ near Inverness. It’s an area set aside for us to sell some of our high grade timber to niche markets - exemplary, effective and efficient a great way to add value and provide delivery of public benefits timber for special projects. It’s a fantastic job that gets me to some brilliant parts of Scotland and allows me to shape how Scotland looks now and in the future.

Julian Fryer Area Operations Manager, Highlands

44 45 good value

We aim to manage the National Forest Estate We do not charge visitors for access on foot, Scotland’s National Forest Estate 2013-2016 effectively and efficiently. To be more effective we bicycle or horseback, but we do charge for special Forestry Commission Scotland is are strengthening our focus on identifying strategic permissions and for parking at locations with the first national forestry service priorities, and linking these with where outcomes special facilities. We also provide business to achieve international can be best delivered on the ground. We believe in opportunities for recreational activities and services recognition for its greening continuous improvement, and constantly strive to find which are managed on a commercial basis. The initiatives and environmental more efficient ways to manage the Estate. We work income from all of these sources is reinvested in management systems. collaboratively with neighbours and others, and sustaining and improving our recreation facilities. help share good practice, where it will contribute Lloyd’s Register Quality We will seek a diverse range of income sources to improved delivery of our objectives. We are Assurance auditors looked at to underpin the cost of managing the Estate, and strengthening our planning processes to take greater our programmes to minimise we will continually look for ways to achieve best account of wider land use in the way we set objectives energy use and travel emissions, value in delivery of public benefits. for each land area. and our efforts to reduce, recycle and re-use waste. They certified Direct government funding accounts for around a third all of our offices, workshops and of our management budget and is channelled towards work practices as complying recreation, community and environmental benefits, with ISO 14001. and strategic capital investments including visitor centres and forest roads. By bringing in income from We are also proud to have Forest other sources we seek to minimise the amount of Stewardship Council (FSC) UK Scottish Government funding needed to manage and PEFC accreditation for the Estate. sustainable forest management, and also achieving ISO 14001 Our main source of income is from timber production, means that environmental and this is supplemented by income from other The Glasgow and Clyde Valley Joint Structure Plan, is quality of every aspect of the activities like, renewable energy, commercial just one initiative that recognises the value of high organisation’s work is recreation and venison sales, all of which helps us to quality greenspace as a tool for urban regeneration. internationally recognised. finance the sustainable management of the Estate. We market some carefully selected sites as building By co-operating in this and similar programmes we land for built development and are looking at how are helping to improve Scotland’s urban areas and to we can add more value to these sites. make Scotland an attractive place to locate and invest.

46 47 priorities and action

Productive (continued) Scotland’s National Forest Estate Healthy achieving good environmental and silvicultural condition in a changing climate Wealthier and fairer and Wealthier Smarter Healthier stronger and Safer Greener

Wealthier and fairer and Wealthier Smarter Healthier stronger and Safer Greener Key commitments Specific activities ••We aim to provide at least three million cubic metres of softwood We will identify strategies to smooth timber production profiles for the next 50 years Key commitments Specific activities timber every year on a sustainable basis • We are committed to high quality silviculture and increasingly We will identify where alternatives to clearfell can be practised on the Estate, and build ••We intend to manage at least a quarter of our expanding We will identify existing woodland and new planting sites where we will commit to using alternatives to clear-felling this into our Land Management Plans broadleaved woodlands to produce quality hardwoods and management for future hardwood timber fuelwood We are increasing investment in stand management practices that will improve the silvicultural quality of Estate woodlands We will market [timber] in ways that encourage value adding and We will use value adding and additional jobs as criteria in the award of long-term timber

• 2013-2016 additional jobs in manufacturing and processing, recognising the contracts We will seek the latest research and advice on management techniques to conserve benefits of contributing to local economic activity, especially in the • We are exploring how to best steward the carbon resources We will further develop the use of ‘log-shops’ for local sale of specialist timbers to carbon in soils and biomass more fragile rural areas locked up in both the Estate’s trees and soils support small-scale wood processing We will help the Estate to adapt to climate change We will implement mitigation strategies for current tree disease threats such as Dothistroma • We will establish a basis for monitoring the contribution of the Estate to jobs and the and become more resilient to pressure needle blight of pine, Phytophthora disease of larch and Chalara disease of ash • We will use our work programmes to promote the development of the forestry and land management sectors economy of Scotland and its regions We will develop and implement a landscape scale spatial planning approach that promotes adaptation and mitigation of climate change in accordance with the • We plan to increase agricultural use of the Estate where this is We will establish starter farms linked to woodland creation proposals, and identify FCS Climate Change Action Plan consistent with environmental objectives opportunities to develop exemplars of forestry and farming integration We will publish a deer management strategy ••We aim to realise the Estate’s renewable energy potential whilst We will work with energy businesses to increase renewable energy generation on the Estate We will implement a programme of work to mitigate slope stability risks on the Estate achieving a reasonable balance with other objectives in line with the SG 2GW 2020 target, securing leading-edge community benefits We will seek to increase the availability of woody material suitable for use as a biofuel • We are committed to dealing with invasive plants and animals We will achieve a 40% reduction in the area of Rhododendron across the Estate that threaten habitats and biodiversity ••We will work with partners to find new ways to harness our natural We are making significant investments in our visitor centre facilities to increase their and cultural heritage and develop the Estate’s potential for tourism contribution to local economic growth We will develop a network of high quality wildlife viewing destinations across Scotland We will work in partnerships like the 7stanes Mountain Biking CiC, and the Galloway providing sustainable economic benefits from the land Productive Dark Skies initiative to promote the tourism potential of the Estate

• We will support the Scottish Government's woodland We will implement an annual woodland creation programme in line with the expansion policy recommendations of the Woodland Expansion Advisory Group We aim to increase the contribution of the National Forest Estate With partners, we will seek new timber transport solutions to bring inaccessible timber • to the economy of Scotland and its regions and recognise the to the market, including the building of a bespoke timber pier on Mull potential of the Estate to assist transition to a low carbon economy We will implement master-plans for key recreation hubs to increase their contribution to the local economy We will look at the sustainable economic potential of the extensive moorlands on the Estate

48 49 priorities and action Scotland’s National Forest Estate Treasured as a multi-purpose resource that sustains livelihoods, improves quality of life, and offers involvement and enjoyment Accessible (continued)

Key commitments Specific activities Wealthier and fairer and Wealthier Smarter Healthier stronger and Safer Greener Wealthier and fairer and Wealthier Smarter Healthier stronger and Safer Greener • We want to encourage local people to get involved with using and There is strong support for our approach to delivering community benefits, recognising that we have •• We will continue to encourage use of the Estate for health benefits We will continue to work with education and health initiatives like Forest Education Initiative, managing local Estate woodlands so we will actively engage with achieved much, for example through appointment of local Community Rangers, the Woods In and and outdoor learning Forest School and Branching Out local communities and be open to work in partnership Around Towns programme, the National Forest Land Scheme, and Community Led Renewable Developments, but also recognising that our capacity is under pressure. Looking ahead, we will ••••• Through our Woods In and Around Towns (WIAT) programme we We will create significant new woodland and out-door access facilities in the Clyde Gateway commission an external "health check" of our performance to help us sustain and develop our aim to provide more opportunities for more of Scotland’s people area on previously derelict and vacant land to enjoy high-quality countryside and find health, education, skills delivery of community benefits We will consult on the potential to develop our Kilpatrick Hills acquisitions as an important and community involvement benefits Working with developers we will provide the opportunity for communities to benefit from new countryside recreation opportunity on the northern edge of Glasgow 2013-2016 or invest in renewable energy developments on the Estate We will work closely with the Central Scotland Green Network initiative to align our contribution with the larger vision •• • We will continue to use the Estate as a place for volunteering and We will provide opportunities for over 100 employment skills placements, gaining employment skills 30 apprenticeships and 8 internships per year. We will make suitable parts of the Estate available for education, volunteering, skills training and health-improvement projects and programmes •• We are committed to creating more uniquely special places across We will define and invest in management of visitor zones to make them attractive and welcoming the Estate and to delivering benefits to an increasingly diverse We will work with partners in the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National range of Scotland’s people Parks to implement the National Park Partnership Plans We will help deliver the WIAT Central Scotland Engagement Programme, with outreach to a Cared for working with nature and respecting landscapes, natural and cultural heritage diverse range of protected characteristic groups ••••• We recognise the value of the Estate as a place for research and We will work with Forest Research and other specialists to demonstrate best practice and provide development of best practice long-term monitoring sites, for example in relation to ecosystem management, climate change adaptation and energy forestry • We are restoring around 85% of areas on ancient woodland sites We will review progress in the enhancement of ancient woodland remnants and restoration to largely native species. The remaining areas will be enhanced of planted ancient woodland sites to native woodland through our management We will produce internal guidance for the management of semi-natural woodlands to Accessible local woodlands and national treasures that are well promoted, welcoming and open for all ensure that our existing ancient and semi-natural woodlands are well cared for • We aim to increase in broadleaved tree cover from the We will use data from the Native Woodland Survey of Scotland to identify where current 8% of woodland cover to around 20% expansion of broadleaved woodland will improve the habitat network and buffer ancient woodland fragments •• We will continue to invest available resources into high quality We will work with partners like the Fieldfare Trust and invest in increasing the accessibility of key facilities that encourage and help visitors experience and enjoy locations to a wider cross-section of society through thoughtful design, appropriate on site provision • We are committed to maintaining the best open habitats We will keep our the open habitat surveys on track for completion by 2019 in good ecological condition the outdoor environment such as toilets and high-quality interpretation We will implement the ‘Strategic Guide for Conservation Management of Open Priority Habitats We will review our policies on provision of recreation facilities (laid out in our framework for access, on the National Forest Estate’ recreation and tourism on the National Forest Estate) • We will identify particularly vulnerable species for which We will strengthen our monitoring and status reporting for key species and habitats We will renew our visitor-facing web site to improve the quality and relevance of the information the National Forest Estate is important and take specific we provide to help visitors find the best locations for them conservation action 50 51 Cared for (continued)

Key commitments Specific activities Wealthier and fairer and Wealthier Smarter Healthier stronger and Safer Greener •• We safeguard archaeological sites through our planning and We will continue to undertake conservation management, condition monitoring management and recognise special places and features with and archaeological recording at significant historic assets local cultural meaning We will continue to work with stakeholders to develop, share and promote best-practice historic environment conservation management

Good value exemplary, effective and efficient delivery of public benefits

••••• We will seek a diverse range of income sources to underpin the We will increase the amount of income from sources other than timber cost of managing the Estate, and we will continually look for ways to achieve best value in delivery of public benefits

• We will make progressive reductions in the emissions from our We will reduce our carbon emission in administrative travel by 5% over this plan period Estate management activities

A special thanks to Colin Leslie, Inverness, Ross and Skye FD and Andrew Jarrott, Galloway FD for supplying some of the fantastic images used in this publication. All other images sourced through FC Picture Library. 52