Strategic Plan
Dumfries and Borders Forest District Strategic Plan 2009-2013
Click here to begin Strategic plan 2009-2013
Contents
Introduction ...... 3 About Dumfries and Borders Forest District...... 4
Section one: strategic context...... 13 Context...... 14 Strategic priorities for Dumfries and Borders Forest District...... 17 Forest policy context...... 19
Section two: how Dumfries and Borders 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...... 32 Key theme four: community development...... 38 Key theme five: access and health...... 43 Key theme six: environmental quality...... 48 Key theme seven: biodiversity...... 53
Section three: delivery and monitoring...... 60
Appendices:...... 63 Appendix one: supporting maps...... 64 Appendix two: evaluation of achievements (1999-2006) under previous strategic plan.....70 Appendix three: glossary for forest policy context diagram...... 85 Appendix four: local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes...... 87 Appendix five: portfolio analysis scoring on the national forest estate...... 91
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
Dumfries and Borders 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 the national forest estate lying within Dumfries and Borders Forest District. This is a five-year plan starting in 2009 and finishing in 2013.
This strategic plan will also provide This plan has been amended to reflect the direction for implementing a repositioning feedback from a formal consultation process policy that will ensure that the nature and during 2008. The summarised consultation distribution of the national forest estate responses and the Forest Enterprise better reflects its role and purpose. 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 relates This section gives an overview of how Dumfries to other Forestry Commission Scotland policies and Borders Forest District will effectively and and strategies, taking a lead from the Scottish efficiently deliver the strategic plan. It includes Forestry Strategy and the strategic plan for the sections on: national forest estate. • the operating principles that underpin all Forest Enterprise Scotland policies, Section two: how Dumfries and Borders operations and activities Forest District contributes to delivery of • delivery mechanisms, including the Scottish Forestry Strategy repositioning the national forest estate This section describes the context and specific • the monitoring and implementation process actions that will be undertaken on the national forest estate in the district under each of the seven themes of the Scottish Forestry Strategy: Impact on environment and equality The results of environment and equality and • climate change diversity impact assessments of the strategic • business development plan are available on the Forestry Commission • timber Scotland website. • community development • access and health Review • environmental quality A review will take place towards the end of the period of delivery of the plan. If significant changes • biodiversity are made to the Scottish Forestry Strategy we will, if necessary, prepare a new strategic plan for the national forest estate. 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 Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Dumfries and Borders Forest District covers some Natural environment 57,000 ha of the national forest estate in the south- east of Scotland. It was set up on April 2009 as Climate a result of the amalgamation of Ae and Scottish Borders forest districts. Maps of the district and There is a marked difference in the climate the forest blocks are given in Appendix one. from west to east in the district. In the west, the influence of the Gulf Stream is stronger bringing The district can be divided broadly into four areas: a mild and wet maritime climate. The east it is coastal zone (8,500 ha) – the lowland generally a bit drier, colder in the winter, but less areas adjacent to the Solway Firth windy. Windiness is a major factor in limiting Tweed valley (8,300 ha) – around Peebles management options such as the ability to thin crops, practice alternative silvicultural methods upland zone of forests and open hills and extend rotations to allow restructure to be west of the watershed (23,000 effective. There is significant variation in windiness ha) - wetter and windier across the district from the sheltered forests of the Tweed valley to the more exposed forests east of the watershed (17,200 of the upland areas, particularly to the west. ha) – cooler but less windy There are distinct climatic, ecological and cultural differences east and west of the watershed along the Dumfries and Galloway and Scottish Borders boundary. The great spruce forests of the Southern Uplands and English border area lie at the heart of the district. These forests have a high strategic timber value, situated close to the mills in the south of Scotland and north of England. In recent years there has been an increased recognition of the key role that forests have in tourism development and delivery through provision of the 7stanes centres for mountain biking and other outdoor activities.
6 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Water Geology and landform More than half the district lies in the catchments The dominant solid geology of the area is of rivers flowing into the upper Solway Firth tidal sedimentary Silurian mudstones and shales. In flats. The majority of the forests to the east lie in the west, granite intrusions underlie the hills of the Tweed catchment and the remaining areas to Dalbeattie, Kinharvie, Criffel and Screel, while the north west drain into the Clyde. A map of water elsewhere small igneous intrusions provide useful catchments in the district is given in Appendix one. seams of harder road stone material. Glaciation Many of these rivers are important fishing and formed the Southern Upland massif with its gently breeding grounds for salmon and sea trout, and rounded plateaux, convex summits and deeply are significant in the local economy. A number incised gullies and cleuchs. Glacial deposits overlay of the towns, particularly those built around the lower valleys and coastal plain followed by water-powered mills, are prone to flooding, and the formation of lowland raised bogs that are now the quantity as well as the quality of the water among the most significant in western Europe is becoming and increasingly important issue. Soils Acidification Underlying geology, glaciations and climate all In some areas, the type of geology (acidic base influence the formation of soil, resulting in a wide rock with soils of limited buffering capacity) and variety of soils underlying the district’s forests. coniferous plantations have been associated The dominant soil types are peaty soils, peaty with acidification. The risk is mapped at gleys and brown earths. Detail soil maps for 10 k2 level with two critical load squares over 90% of the district are available to support affecting the district, at Craik and Wauchope. management decisions, such as species choice, However, the geology and underlying soils ground preparation technique, and fallow period. effectively buffer the impact and there is no evidence of significant freshwater acidification attributable to forestry. Further decreases in acid deposition are expected as improved control of emissions at source is implemented.
7 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Landscape Biodiversity The district has a wide spectrum of landscape types: The district’s forests spread from the coastal fringes to the upper slopes of the southern • coastal forests on raised bogs and uplands. There is a significant range of natural steep sided granite hills habitats, including woodlands, estuarine raised • upland forests on the rolling hills and deeply bogs, peat mosses and upland heaths, some of incised valleys of the Southern Uplands which are designated as sites of special scientific • the Tweed forests of the upland river valley interest or special areas of conservation. There is further variation between the areas west of • The district manages forests that lie the watershed between Scottish Borders and in the East Stewartry and the Nith Dumfries and Galloway and those to the east. Estuary national scenic areas. Native woodlands are poorly represented as a result of a long history of clearing and sheep grazing. Only 1% of the district is designated as either areas of semi-natural woodland or plantations on ancient woodland sites. Although these remnant habitats are small they are nevertheless significant. A significant proportion of the Solway Mosses, one of the most important raised mire complexes in western Europe covering over 1,000 ha, lies in the national forest estate. Large-scale conifer forests give rise to a developing conifer ecosystem and biodiversity interest, which together with the associated semi-natural habitats support a diverse range of species. Important forest species in the district include red squirrel, otter, bat species, raptors, black grouse, nightjar, great crested newt and juniper, along with a number of nationally and internationally protected butterfly species included in the Forestry Commission Scotland biodiversity strategy.
8 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Cultural environment
Historical context Heritage The historical factors that have shaped the Well over 350 heritage features, including 50 forests of the district are typical for much of scheduled and six listed features, are mapped Scotland. They include deforestation, climate and recorded in the district database. The change, sheep husbandry, and the development majority of features relate to medieval or of agriculture resulting in a mixed rural later agricultural and rural settlements. economy of farmland, forest and moorland. Vast networks of drystane dykes from this The early introduction of sheep by monasteries period are treated as archaeological features for and the Border warfare of the 15th and 16th operational purposes. Earlier features include centuries had a significant impact on the standing stones, hut circles, burial sites, large survival or otherwise of native woodland. defensive works, a Roman road and a Border Some plantations were established in 17th and tower. Listed structures include surviving 18th centuries, but the main expansion took features of the former Waverley railway line. place in the early post-war period. These forests Heritage interest in the district encompasses were intimate parts of remote rural communities, the trees and woodlands themselves, such as the new forest village and foresters’ including ancient, legendary or historic trees houses at Ae, and added significantly to the rural and woods, such as the Glenkinnon oak. population and to cultural diversity. The forests underpinned the development of significant sawmills in the Dumfries area, including James Jones, Howie and the Steven’s Croft development.
9 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Demographics Economy The district is a predominantly rural area, with small to medium market towns. Dumfries, with Employment a population of about 30,000, is the regional Local government, tourism, and the traditional management centre for a number of national industries of agriculture, forestry and textiles are and local organisations and departments. the mainstay of the rural economy of Dumfries and Hawick, with a population of about 16,000, is Galloway and the Scottish Borders. Only tourism is the largest settlement in the Scottish Borders. increasing in terms of turnover and employment. The Tweed valley in particular is very accessible Across the south-east of Scotland as a whole, there to Edinburgh. The urban population views the are an estimated 1,245 full-time equivalent jobs forests mainly as a recreational resource, but there in forestry-related activities. Many of these are in is a substantial, widely scattered rural population rural areas and associated with small businesses that also sees them as part of the rural economy. of fewer than 10 people. They include jobs in The population size in the countryside has the forest, such as planting, felling and forest hardly changed over the years, with nearly all the management. Employment in the wood processing expansion being in the larger market towns, away industries is greater than in the forest itself, with from the forests. The population age structure has at least 2,000 full-time equivalent jobs involved in changed, with an increasing number of people the haulage and processing of the district’s timber. retiring to the area and young people leaving to find work in the cities. There is a projected The district employs 83 people directly and reduction in the working population over the contractors provide a similar number of full- next 10 years and a gradually ageing population. time equivalent jobs. A further 70 Forestry Commission Scotland staff working in other In social terms, only the area around Upper divisions are based in the district. Some 80% Nithsdale has a very low social deprivation of the timber harvested from the district’s classification, a reflection of its recent industrial forests is processed in Dumfries and Galloway, past. There are pockets of deprivation Northumberland and Cumbria. Processing in many of the towns and villages of the capacity in Scottish Borders is very small. district, including parts of Dumfries. Some new houses have been built in the countryside, but these have tended to be up- market and there is a shortage of affordable homes.
10 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Tourism Renewable energy Tourism is the single most important rural The recent push to increase the UK’s renewable industry in the south-east of Scotland in terms energy capacity has led to considerable interest in of turnover and employment. It is the only biomass and woodfuel and renewable energies. sector that is growing annually, by approximately The biomass electricity generating plant (44 5% year-on-year. VisitScotland has identified MW) at Stevens Croft, north of Lockerbie, developments in the forest environment as vital is now operational and consuming 500,000 to the sustainability and growth of tourism. tonnes of wood and wood products a year. Tourism is a major objective, and we are It is anticipated that most of the material developing and enhancing facilities and staff will be sourced from forests and short resources to handle this growing sector. The rotation coppice in a 50 mile radius. forests provide a large resource for both informal To date, several established windfarms operate and formal recreation, and for organised events close to the forest boundary. In the national such as the Merida cycling event, 7stanes, Dog forest estate, work is beginning on Airtricity’s 164 Sport Scotland and the Countryside Trails. In turbine site at Little Clyde (M74). Scottish Power’s addition to walking, cycling and horse riding, we 71 turbine site at Harestanes in the Forest of Ae also cater for more specialist interests, including has planning approval. Vattenfall has submitted husky training/racing, angling, and motor sport. a proposal for a 14 turbine site at Minch Moor This activity generates expenditure and helps above the Tweed valley for planning approval. to sustain local jobs directly, such as the café The national forest estate in the district has been and bike shops at Glentress, Ae and Mabie, assessed for future potential for windfarm and or indirectly through local shops, catering hydro scheme development. Windfarms have the and accommodation providers. The key is to greater potential in the area although there may encourage paying visitors into the area to spend be opportunities for small scale hydro schemes. with local businesses. The development of the 7stanes network across the south of Scotland has made a significant contribution to the local economy, with mountain biking seeing an exponential growth over the past five years. We manage five of the 7stanes sites in the district.
11 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Introduction
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Forest resource There are some examples of poor timber quality from past practices, such as Sitka spruce of Around 20% (173,000 ha) of Scottish Borders and variable straightness and crops, such as lodgepole the part of Dumfries and Galloway in the district pine, from the 1970s and 1980s that are coarse is covered by woodland. Forestry Commission branched due to suboptimal stocking or poor Scotland manages around 25% (44,900 ha) of these species and provenance choice. As a result, forest and woodland. The total area of national a small proportion of the district is regarded forest estate in south-east Scotland is 57,000 ha. as economically marginal, but this tends to occur as localised areas within larger forests. Types of forest and tree species Around 80% of the forest comprises of spruce, The pattern of afforestation is typical of Scotland which is well suited to the growing conditions as a whole, with the earliest Forestry Commission of the area and provides a timber suitable for acquisitions on the lower ground and better soils, the markets. The remaining area comprises allowing a greater variety of conifer species. As land larches and pines (14%) and broadleaves (6%). availability changed and afforestation techniques developed, planting moved up the hill onto the Productive forestry age poorer soils and was dominated by Sitka spruce. Past policies lead to some rapid periods of Most of the existing forests in the district are on planting resulting in large areas of even aged sites that are land use capability category F6 or forests. Some 43% of the current forests were better. Wind is a significant factor in managing the established between 1970 and 1989. These forests. About 30% of the district is in windthrow forests are now well into their second rotation hazard class WHC3 or better, allowing a greater and are being diversified, both in species and range of management options and species choice. structure, to balance timber production with A further 30% is WHC4 which is more restricted, other objectives, such as biodiversity and but still allows a range of options where the site recreation. Some 26% were established since conditions are suitable. A map of land capability 1990 and are virtually all second rotation. Only classifications is given in Appendix one. 4% of the forest is more than 60 years old.
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 the previous strategic plans for Ae and Scottish Borders forest districts (published in 2001). They included a wide range of local targets set against the national priorities identified in 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:
• new business developments in renewable • we have successfully planned and are now energy, including biofuel options ranging constructing a network of strategic forest roads from small-scale heating to large power that will reduce the impact of timber traffic on generation (Lockerbie E.ON plant), are all rural communities and on weak, single-track being actively supported and developed. public roads. Working with private companies, Ongoing developments in relation to we have successfully facilitated use of low impact renewable energy include Harestanes, timber haulage vehicles for use on some of Clyde and Minch Moor windfarms. the forest roads, such as at Heads of Valley • annual production for the combined district • we have delivered improved forest design over the previous period was around 490,000 throughout the district. Work plans have cubic metres, with around 50,000 cubic metres been initiated to identify and formalise coming from thinning, although this element management plans at the site level. Although varied from year to year. A significant proportion clearfell and re-stocking delays have occurred of harvesting contacts (60% of overall sales and and windthrow has frequently intervened 90% of roadside sales) are long-term, allowing (notably the 1999 hurricane), we are working customer relations to build. Work continues to to adjust programmes to minimise the adverse provide specific customer requirements, such as effects of these events on our objectives log poles, and to develop new ways of working, • a strategic landscape design plan has been such as dry weight, end product working, prepared for the Tweed valley to bring a unity and mixed clearfell and thinning contracts to forest plans, but at the same time to highlight the distinctiveness of each of the seven forests
14 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Section one: strategic context
• there is a greater recognition of the • we completed phase one restoration of potential for alternative to clearfell systems, the Solway Mosses lowland in 2003 via with a number of areas identified in the the EU LIFE II bid (clearance of 417 ha of more sheltered areas of the district timber from the Longbridgemuir raised bog), with ongoing maintenance taking • work to raise restocking standards is place since. A further expansion to restore ongoing and achieving target stocking the total area of over 1,000 ha is being densities is a high priority considered by Scottish Natural Heritage • deer populations are generally within • there has been a significant rise in the recognition acceptable levels to allow the successful and role of forestry in tourism. We are actively establishment of the main timber species. engaged with Tweed Valley Development Group, There are some local issues with broadleaves Tweeddale Tourism Consortium, VisitScotland, and the ‘soft’ conifers. Containing sika deer to Scottish Enterprise Dumfries &Galloway, Dumfries the upper Tweed valley has only been partially & Galloway Council and other organisations, successful, with spread continuing to the east. such as 7stanes, Countryside Trails, and Dog Several different landowners are involved, Sport Scotland, to maximise this delivery with different management objectives • priority woods have been established for red squirrel conservation. Squirrel pox has entered the district from the south and trapping is being undertaken in the Newcastleton area. More work is needed on modelling the impact of restructuring on population viability
15 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Section one: strategic context
• mountain biking has been the major area • Tweed Valley Forest Park was designated in 2002. of investment over the period. The 7stanes Forestry Commission Scotland is now developing development, undertaken as part of the south a new visitor services centre at Glentress Peel to of Scotland’s recovery from foot and mouth address demand generated by 7stanes centre and disease, is now recognised as one of the world’s the forest park. The Peel will be a showcase of best mountain biking facilities. This has also quality recreation and sustainable development been a focus for local business development, • volunteering opportunities through Friends of directly through café and bike hire premises Tweed Valley Forest Park, including the Osprey in the forest and indirectly through providing watch, the Green Team and the trail fairies services to the increased number of visitors have grown during the period. Our partnership • community partnerships have developed, with the Scottish Association for Mental notably Cairnhead Community Forest Trust, Health is providing real work opportunities Dalbeattie Forest Community Partnership, Ae in the forest for people recovering from Youth Eye, 7stanes and Dog Sport Scotland. mental illness. This will change in emphasis We aim to develop and expand all community as SAMH restructures its programmes and other links as resources allow Much remains to be done and new challenges arise • there has also been a growth in nature-based out of the revised Scottish Forestry Strategy and tourism in the district. We have been involved the demands of our stakeholders. The proposals for in the Tweed Osprey project in partnership responding to these and building on the successful with the Royal Society for the Protection implementation of the previous strategic plan are of Birds, Scottish Natural Heritage, Kailzie detailed in Section two. Gardens and others to provide an opportunity for visitors to see live CCTV of the nest
16 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Strategic priorities for Dumfries and Borders Forest District
District vision Safeguarding national forestry treasures The public forests of Dumfries and the A number of sites in the district have a high Borders are a sustainable natural resource cultural, landscape, conservation or recreational contributing to economic development through value e.g. Glentress and the Tweed Valley Forest timber and renewable energy, to tourism Park, Mabie. These sites will be managed in a way through active outdoor recreation, and to that preserves and enhances their special qualities. community wellbeing through participation.
Delivering forestry for people District priorities and rural development benefits The main priority is to practice sustainable forest where people live and work management, which is one of the fundamental The region is renowned for the 7stanes mountain operating principles outlined in the national biking centres, but is also able to support a strategic plan for Forest Enterprise Scotland. This is range of other active outdoor recreation. This based on implementation of a range of important is one of the drivers of the tourism of the standards and best practice national guidelines, area and we are committed to maintaining such as Forestry Commission Scotland forests and the trails and infrastructure of 7stanes and water guidelines and legislation, such as the Health working with partners and businesses to and Safety Act. Our performance is externally develop the product for a wider audience. audited against the Forest Stewardship Council- The district has been engaged in a number of approved UK Woodland Assurance Standard. exemplar community partnerships for many years Our Forest Stewardship Council certification e.g. at Cairnhead, and will continue to respond to provides third party verification that Forestry interest from communities keen to become more Commission Scotland forests are well managed. involved in the management of the local woods. We are firmly committed to retaining the The district works closely with providers high standards required by the UK Woodland and organisations in the development, Assurance Standard. This requires us to deliver dissemination and delivery of forestry- a baseline of good practice in all our work. related education and training. 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:
17 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section one
Strategic priorities for Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Retaining sufficient timber production potential Sustaining sufficient regional presence to facilitate market stability and development to exercise policy development, exemplar and leadership roles The climate and suitability of the land for growing Sitka spruce has made the south-east of Scotland The district is well placed to contribute to together with Kielder across the border a major government climate change targets, with a timber producing region and has attracted number of large scale windfarms consented significant investment in processing capacity to the or under consideration and the supply of area. This will remain a key priority for the district biomass to E.ON for power generation and we will seek to adopt management practices along with the Solway Mosses. We will through tailoring species to sites and thinning facilitate these and other opportunities regimes to sustain good quality timber production. subject to planning policy application. The district forests influence a number of high quality fishing river catchments. We will continue to seek to make sure that forestry makes a positive contribution to good ecological water quality through sympathetic forest planning and strict adherence to Forestry Commission Scotland forests and water guidelines. The district contains a large and diverse range of forests and communities, with a wide range of management options. We will deliver an appropriate balance of economic, environmental and social outputs from each forest through active stakeholder engagement in long-term forest planning. We will utilise these long- term forest plans and management approach to provide exemplars of multi-benefit forestry and demonstrate how sustainable forest management is delivered on the ground.
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 strategic 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
Dumfries and Borders 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 Dumfries and Borders 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 Dumfries and Borders Forest District contributes to the delivery of the Scottish Forestry Strategy
Context The issues identified below are arranged under the seven key national themes of the Scottish Forestry Strategy, with analysis and evaluation of their local context. The strategy identifies three outcomes, 12 headline objectives and 69 detailed objectives. Only the most relevant objective and main local issues are included to reflect the strategic nature of this plan.
In identifying issues, we seek to identify 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
Renewable energy The district is well placed to contribute towards The potential for further windfarm schemes in meeting existing and future renewable energy the district is being assessed to allow targeting of targets. We are currently involved with a future development to the most suitable sites. number of renewable energy schemes, including wind (Harestanes, Clyde and Minch Moor windfarms) and biomass (E.ON at Lockerbie).
There is considerable scope for developing new The use of brash and fuel poles recovered from wood energy business demand. Key partners in harvesting sites is an option, as is the recovery of the Renewable Forum share this view. There are stumps. These must be sustainable in terms of benefits in terms of the production of renewable soil fertility, soil carbon storage and economics energy, the reduction in the timber transport to the grower. Short rotation coppice is unlikely requirement, and in support of rural development. to feature on the current national forest estate. There are issues around the availability of raw material for biomass and woodfuel given existing contractual commitments that need to be resolved.
22 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Adapting to climate change Flood and catchment management This is a complex subject and best practice is Flood and catchment management will become still evolving as research develops. We need to increasingly important factors in forest planning, be aware of the latest research and consider along with contingency planning for major the practical implications at local level. events. Forest management practices can have a significant negative as well as positive impact on At present, practical impacts appear to be in catchment management. We will continue to take terms of changes in seasonal temperatures, opportunities to address past poor practice as the rainfall and wind intensity and distribution. forests are restructured and promote best practice There is a projected increasing in the frequency through the redesign. We will continue to support of storm events, which bring the risk of the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and increased windthrow and localised flooding. Tweed Forum in developing and implementing Species choice will need to be kept under review. the Solway-Tweed river basin management plan Climatic changes may have an impact on the health and in achieving the objectives of the Nith, Annan and growth potential of different tree species and and Tweed area catchment management plans. provenance, and in pathology and disease. Different silvicultural systems may be appropriate Carbon sequestration to adapt to changes in moisture and wind patterns. The increased windiness may cause There is potential for acquiring land for planting new unusually high levels of wind damage, particularly productive woodlands for carbon sequestration, in the upland zone. Forest design, species while also meeting other environmental and choice and silviculture will need to be carefully social objectives. Establishment on the better considered for the succeeding rotations. soils of the lowlands would have the greatest potential for carbon sequestration. This would link Different climatic conditions may bring about more readily to other social and environmental changes in biodiversity, both losses and gains, objectives such as community woodland but also the risk of local extinction of some less development and forest habitat networks. adaptable species. For the native woodlands, expanding and enhancing forest habitat networks Our understanding of the carbon sequestration along with associated open ground habitats in capacity of the forest estate is developing and the forest design will be important in creating our research division is taking a lead in this more robust and responsive ecosystems. area nationally. We will keep up to date with their work and adapt our policies and practices We also need to identify and develop in response to their recommendations. sustainable management practices for our operations, buildings and travel, covering There is scope for increasing our contribution in issues such as energy conservation, types of areas such as longer rotations and the adoption of fuel used, types of vehicles purchased, etc. low impact silvicultural systems where practical, and in native woodland expansion and open habitat restoration (see also key theme six).
23 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Key theme: climate change
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Renewable energy
Maximise the potential for wind farms on the national forest estate to help deliver D&B government targets for renewable energy and carbon reduction while balancing community 1.01 and environmental interest.
Help facilitate the woodfuel/biomass market growth and emerging woodfuel enterprises D&B through making volume available on the open market which could be of interest to woodfuel 1.02 purchasers. Continue to respond to enquires for local small scale firewood sales where resources allow.
Install a woodfuel heating system in the Glentress Peel development along with specific D&B energy saving practices. Use this and other features of the Peel to raise public awareness of 1.03 sustainable design and practice. (see also D&B Advocate sustainable building and heating systems in any new office developments by the 2.12) Scotland Government’s Environmental and Rural Services in Dumfries and Galloway, and in National Forest Land Scheme affordable housing projects.
D&B Encourage small-scale hydroelectricity development on the national forest estate, with due 1.04 regard to community, planning and environmental concerns
Adapting to climate change
Use the Forest Research ecological site classification system to make sure that resilient species D&B are planted on suitable sites to provide insurance for the future. This will be followed through 1.05 in forest plans and detailed site plans, supported by local guidance on species selection and native trees and shrubs.
D&B Use other decision-support systems, such as ForestGales, to inform the development of robust 1.06 forest design plans in the event of increase in major wind and rain events.
24 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Key theme: climate change
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Adapting to climate change
D&B Identify opportunities in existing forests and potential acquisitions for developing and 1.07 expanding robust forest and open ground habitat networks.
Adopt the practices identified in the evolving Forestry Commission Scotland business D&B sustainability initiative in all buildings, visitor facilities, operations and travel, such as 1.08 reductions in energy consumption, carbon emissions and waste.
D&B Develop and maintain local contingency plans for major incidents based on the national 1.09 plans. Support local authority major emergencies planning.
Flood and catchment management
Work with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and river basin management plan D&B partners to identify demonstration sites to show best practice in catchment management 1.10 through forest design.
Work with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, Tweed Forum and others to D&B implement the relevant aspects of the river basin management plan and the area catchment 1.11 management plans, including actions that will help to reduce the impact of flooding.
D&B 1.12 Identify areas where flood risk and slope stability may be issues. Taking advice from others, (See also incorporate appropriate action into forest design plans and adapt harvesting and restocking D&B operations accordingly. 6.04)
25 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme one: climate change
Key theme: climate change
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Carbon sequestration
Create new woodland where this can make a significant contribution D&B to carbon sequestration, forest habitat network development, 1.13 flood risk mitigation and/or community benefits.
D&B Consider climate change implications in any decision to remove woodland and look at 1.14 options to mitigate the loss e.g. by offset planting, in support of national policy.
26 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Timber supply Timber production is currently around 500,000 Our current production forecasting methods can cubic metres/year and projected to remain at this predict timber yields from the traditional clearfell/ level over the next five to ten years. The majority re-stock system reasonably accurately, but they of volume is generated from clearfelling, with are less reliable for thinning and areas managed around 60,000 cubic metres/year derived from under continuous cover. This is being addressed at thinning. We are looking to increase the proportion a national level as part of the preparation for the of the volume from thinning operations. next published forecast in 2010/11. Work is also needed to improve predictions of timber quality.
A small proportion of the district is regarded as Restructuring of the forest will lead to an economically marginal, but this tends to occur increase in open space and broadleaves for as localised areas in larger forests. Parts of the conservation. The reduction in productive conifer Upper Nithsdale woodlands and the scree area, and potentially in supply, is compensated slopes of the Tweed fall into this category, as for by improved establishment techniques well as being sensitive to harvesting operations. and the use of improved growing stock. Work must be done to find technical solutions to operating in these areas to release timber volume, meet our other social objectives and to prevent site damage (see also key theme six).
27 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Timber quality Timber transport The coastal areas around the Solway and the The forests in the district are relatively close to Tweed valley have traditionally produced the best our customers and within 50 miles of a major quality timber, although yield classes in the uplands processor. Despite the proximity of the markets, remain high. Work on improved management the costs of the supply chain are still a significant of second rotation crops is a priority to improve issue. Many of factors are derived from national timber quality for the future markets. Appropriate issues, such as the high cost of diesel and shortage species and provenance choice, both for the site of skilled labour. Increasing efficiency and a and end products, together with attention to more equitable share of the profits in the chain establishment standards and silvicultural thinning, remains a high priority at a national level. are essential to continuing to produce construction South Scotland Forest Industries Cluster grade timber (C16 and above) for future use. provides both a forum for the different elements Thinning has been variable in the district, with of the industry to meet and a co-ordinating many of the crops in the Tweed valley and along role to promote closer partnerships. the Solway coast being well-thinned and now Timber haulage is a major cost in the supply yielding quality products. There has been less chain and in terms of the impact it has on thinning undertaken in other parts of the district, forest and public road maintenance, on carbon nevertheless the largely Sitka spruce crops are emissions and on communities along the key still producing some quality wood. The market routes. Timber transport groups bring together conditions of recent years have also made it the industry and the local authorities to work difficult to sustain the thinning programme. together to minimise these impacts. The agreed We are currently reviewing our thinning policy routes map is one of the tools used. We are taking with a presumption to thin all suitable crops. an active role in developing and supporting alternative public road transport solutions, such the £4.6 million Strategic Timber Transport Fund-aided Eskdalemuir project. We need to continue to work hard to minimise the impact of timber haulage on the rural infrastructure.
28 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Hardwood timber Timber in construction There is very limited area of lowland-type This is a national issue, but also one adopted broadleaved plantations in the district. To by Scottish Borders Council in its woodland date, these have only produced low quality strategy and through its project to promote hardwood timber, mainly firewood products. construction and sustainable development using local timber. There are opportunities to There is little scope for expanding lowland-type showcase timber in construction in the national timber production due to our generally poorer soils. recreation facility planned at Glentress. Our ancient and semi-natural woods are normally of highest value to nature conservation, without timber production. We are assessing the potential of sites in the lower more fertile areas of the forest to establish quality, productive broadleaves. We will consider establishing areas of quality broadleaves on any new woodland on better quality land. This will also test our ability to produce to more demanding specifications. Although Woodschool, the trading arm of Borders Forest Trust, was a small user of timber, it was producing high-quality niche products that promote hardwood timber from sustainable sources. This will be continued in a slightly different form by its successor, Real Wood Studios Ltd.
29 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Key theme: Timber
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Timber supply
D&B Maximise potential in areas identified for productive timber species through best practice and 2.01 the use of improved stock, wherever possible.
Produce a forecast of timber production (2011), based on achieving a sustainable level of D&B production, supplemented by annual marketing plans matching those predictions (currently 2.02 at 500,000 cubic metres/year).
D&B Maintain our compliance with the UK Woodland Assurance Standard to allow our customers 2.03 to gain certification for their products, e.g. through the Forest Stewardship Council.
Timber quality
D&B Distribution of species and selection of correct provenance will follow sound silvicultural 2.04 practice to provide a quality growing stock at the correct density.
D&B Review the thinning programme based on a presumption to thin all suitable areas. This is 2.05 expected to increase the volume of timber derived from thinning.
D&B Proactively manage natural regeneration areas to meet the objectives for the site. 2.06
Timber transport
Continue partnership working with the local timber transport groups to develop industry D&B solutions that provide efficient transport and social and environmental benefits, e.g. 2.07 development of alternative in forest haulage routes.
D&B Use low ground pressure vehicles to reduce the impact of haulage on the environment and 2.08 the associated cost on the infrastructure, where appropriate.
D&B Adhere to agreed route maps for timber transport and the code of practice for road haulage 2.09 of round timber.
30 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme two: timber
Key theme: Timber
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Hardwood timber
D&B Review the current broadleaved resource and assess opportunities for further expansion by 2.10 June 2010.
D&B 2.11 Identify areas suitable for growing productive quality broadleaves and establish a local trial (See also area to inform future targets and suitable species. D&B 1.03)
Timber in construction
Identify opportunities to demonstrate the use of timber in construction, maximising the D&B use of local timber, e.g. Glentress Peel, office developments by the Scotland Government’s 2.12 Environmental and Rural Services at Dumfries and Galashiels; road bridges.
D&B Specify sustainability measures in all building tenders. 2.13
31 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme three: business development
Skills The forest industry as a whole in the south-east There is a continuing need to develop existing of Scotland has an ageing workforce and a skills staff and contractor skills to sustain the current shortage, particularly for skilled people in chainsaw programmes, meet new challenges and improve work and establishment. The majority of contactors performance in current activities. are small enterprises (<10 people) with an increase in migrant workers in some sectors.
New challenges, such as the development of We need to continue to encourage and retain mountain biking and the increase in social inclusion younger people into forestry through schemes ideas, requires more specialist skills. This is bringing such as work experience placement for secondary people with a wider range of experiences and pupils and the forestry apprenticeship scheme. expertise into the forests. All vacancies are advertised through the Forestry Commission Scotland website and locally. We actively support Forestry Commission Scotland Learning and Development Services during formal internal and external training events, both with access to sites and with local expertise. The district is a member of the Barony College advisory forum and supports its ongoing need for suitable training sites as part of their delivery of the curriculum. We also offer training opportunities to the Borders College.
32 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme three: business development
Timber Income Diversification Tourism has become a mainstay of the local There is a need for sustainable sources of income economy, and continues to maintain an increasing for the management of the forests, to realise its turnover and employment. The landscape and conservation potential and to make continuous recreation opportunities are a major factor in people’s improvement in the quality of our recreation facilities. choice to visit the region, which is promoted as a Timber production is a key objective and accounts ‘natural place’ and a ‘gateway to Scotland’. for 94.5% of the district’s income. Revenue generated The area draws visitors from a wide area, with from car parks and other recreation activities yields Edinburgh and the north of England being 2.5%. Leases for communication masts, properties, particularly important markets. Forestry is recognised shooting and grazing, together with the sale of as having a significant role in tourism development venison and Christmas trees provide the remaining and delivery through the provision of recreation 3% of our income. facilities, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and the The market for small-scale local timber products, design and management of forests in the landscape. woodfuel and for non-timber forest products is Walking continues to be the main pursuit for many modest at present, but there is potential for further forest visitors, but other activities have been growing development provided these are environmentally rapidly in popularity in recent years. Mountain biking sustainable. Renewable energy projects, such as has become the major outdoor activity of the area, windfarms and biomass plants, are currently the most and adventure or active sports are identified as one likely sources of significant additional revenue for the of the key development areas for the district, building national forest estate. on the success of 7stanes as one of Scotland’s top There are, however, other opportunities to diversify mountain biking destinations. The forests of the our income base through non-timber sources of area regularly host events, including some national income. The national forest estate can provide mountain biking events. a location for various enterprises. Realising this We are operating in a very competitive and potential requires raising and maintaining the profile increasingly discerning market for leisure time. of the forests with local decision-makers, especially We must continue to improve the quality of our in economic and social terms. Promoting local co- recreation provision (information and facilities), operation and working in partnership are also key particularly in areas of high-density use, such as issues. We are involved with a diverse range of local Mabie, Ae and the Tweed valley. In doing so, we bodies, including South Scotland Forest Industries also need to assess and manage the potential Cluster, community groups, tourism groups, and environmental impact of increased travel. environmental bodies. The challenge is to realise the benefits in a sustainable way, to capture some of the direct revenue for reinvestment into the forests, and to maintain and enhance the visitor experience. We will continue to work with partners to maximise the benefits.
33 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme three: business development
Contribution to rural development Management of the forest for timber production There is potential for further development in this underpins jobs in forest establishment and in area, particularly in relation to activity sports, with maintenance, harvesting and haulage. A significant a recent study managed by Scottish Enterprise number of jobs are also supported through identifying gaps and opportunities in provision. We downstream processing. This remains a core part of will build on existing initiatives, such as 7stanes, our business. and endeavour to manage and improve the quality of recreation provision to sustain the level of Many local businesses derive benefits from visitors visitors and provide opportunities and support for to the forests, in particular mountain biking. Local local businesses. We will make sure there is a fair businesses at Glentress, Ae and Mabie serve the and open process to develop specific opportunities needs of the forest visitors through cafés and bike based in the forests. hire. Local accommodation and service providers have also developed business opportunities from The forests also make a significant indirect the additional visitors drawn to the forests. contribution to the rural economy. Well-managed woods and forests provide an attractive setting in which to live, work and play, and can contribute to business decisions on location.
34 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Key theme three: business development
Key theme: Business development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Skills
D&B Prepare a workforce development plan to identify skill shortages, training needs, learning and 3.01 development opportunities so staff skills match developing policies and demands.
D&B Promote continuous improvements to the safety culture in the sector, by exhibiting best 3.02 practice on the national forest estate.
Assist Forestry Commission Scotland in providing opportunities for school pupils, of all abilities, between 14-16 years to learn more about forestry and gain a greater understanding D&B of potential employment opportunities through a programme of work placements and the 3.03 work of the Forest Education Initiative in supporting forestry skills development and careers guidance in schools.
Continue to support Forestry Commission Scotland Learning and Development Services and D&B the Barony College through facilitating on-site training and learning experience and through 3.04 advice on course development.
D&B Secure funding to sustain a Modern Apprentice programme. 3.05
Continue to work in partnership with Barony college, Scottish Enterprise and others to provide D&B opportunities for upskilling of contractors through forest-based practical training courses and 3.06 through targeted seminars.
Tourism (see also under recreation)
D&B Continue to consider the landscape value of woodlands to tourism during revision of forest 3.07 plans including opportunities for managing areas under low impact silvicultural systems.
Work with partners to realise the economic potential of 7stanes and mountain-biking as a D&B largely forest-based activity and help to develop the potential for other world class sporting 3.08 facilities in forests.
35 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Key theme three: business development
Key theme: Business development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Tourism (continued)
Where appropriate, facilitate development on the national forest estate of adventure and D&B wildlife tourism products by local businesses, which offer a quality of experience that attracts 3.09 a greater number and wider range of visitors and encourages longer stays.
D&B Actively seek resources e.g. from external funding and income generation, to continually 3.10 improve the information, service and facilities on offer.
D&B Actively encourage the use of the forest for competitive sporting and other types of events. 3.11
D&B Continue to monitor visitor numbers and take part in national surveys to maintain our 3.12 understanding of tourism demand and requirements.
Income diversification
Identify and test opportunities for income diversification, which is vital to protect programme D&B development in other areas, in particular by increasing the percentage of revenue generated 3.13 by non-timber sales. This will be accompanied by engagement with stakeholders to make sure that proposals are well thought through and that long-term relationships are not damaged.
Assess forests with low scores from the portfolio analysis for opportunities to improve their D&B non-market and/or economic performance. If this is not possible, they will be considered for 3.14 sale to realise money for recycling to other key work areas, including new acquisitions.
D&B Remain open to new business ideas on the national forest estate that are compatible with our 3.15 objectives and standards and capable of generating income.
36 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section three
Key theme three: business development
Key theme: Business development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Rural development
D&B Seek to continually raise the profile of forestry with local decision-makers and work in 3.16 partnership with others to increase the benefits to the local economy derived from the forests.
Remain open to new business ideas based on the use of forest services and products that D&B match our wider social and environmental standards and consider positively proposals that 3.17 will assist growth or development of local businesses.
D&B Continue to develop electronic trading with timber customers and pilot extending this to 3.18 harvesting contractors.
37 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Woods in and around towns Areas classified under the Forestry Commission Well-managed and attractive forests are a source Scotland initiative as woodlands in and around towns of pride for the people who work in them and the are Venlaw, Cademuir, Glentress (Peebles), part of communities who live by them. Forests contribute to Caberston (Innerleithen), Dalbeattie and Heathhall the quality of life when they provide attractive settings (Dumfries). Dalbeattie enjoys a well-established to workplaces, travel routes and homes, and when community woodland partnership. Borders Forest they are readily accessible for rest and recreation. Trust organises community events in the community woodlands of the Tweed valley.
Community engagement Many communities also wish to have an Communities associated with the national forest opportunity to influence long-term management estate in the district have different aspirations and decisions, such as through local forest design plan resources, and our engagement with them occurs on consultation. We host annual meetings of the two a number of levels. Communities share a common forest panels to share information and gain valuable desire to be informed of what is happening in the comment on forest design plans. Given support forest. The impacts of transport of timber through and scope, the panels could contribute more to the communities and changes in the landscape though management of the district. harvesting of timber are frequently areas of local concern. We need to develop more robust methods to keep communities informed of forest operations and activities.
38 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Community engagement (continued) Community ownership We continue to explore ways that the national forest There have been a few enquiries under the National estate can add further value to this experience by Forest Land Scheme for community ownership and engaging proactively with community members management. Of these Auchencairn (Rascarrel) and others in an inclusive approach to the and Closeburn (Claurie) are the most advanced, management of and delivery from the estate. We with the Upper Borthwick (Craik) and Houndwood already have some notable exemplars of the benefits (Greenwood and Renton) communities still at an of this approach, such as Cairnhead Community informal stage. Most communities that we engage Forest Trust and Moniaive and Dalbeattie Forest with have decided against pursuing community Community Partnership, with both communities ownership, preferring instead to work with us in taking a key role in the partnerships. planning, developing and delivering their aspirations in a partnership approach. Other communities have become very active in management issues, such as developing access We continue to explore suitable sites for housing or options to generate economic benefit for their development, particularly in relation to affordable community from recreation or forest products and housing. To date, the main interest and activity has services. Several communities, such as at Stakeford, been focused on discussions around Ae Village. Ae, Moffat, Heathhall and Craik, are at various stages of considering how they wish to develop their relationship with us further. Consultation with interest groups other than geographical communities, such as equestrians and mountain bikers, is also important to accommodate their views. This is an area in which we need to increase our engagement, although it can be difficult to engage with a representative group.
39 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Learning Our volunteering programmes, such as the Our resources for education are limited and we mountain bike patrol, provide opportunities for need to focus on specific groups, on activities people to undertake practical tasks, develop new which meet the needs of the national curriculum, skills in countryside management, and increase and on facilitating use of the forest by others. their knowledge of the environment. A Green Team We also need to increase the impact of our conservation volunteer group has been successful in involvement by working with others, such as the past, but is currently not operational due to lack of staff time. There is scope to increase the role of Borders Forest Trust and the local Forest Education volunteering as a route back into paid employment. Initiative (FEI) cluster. Our priorities are schools close to forests that are interested in an ongoing connection with their local forest, such as the Partnerships Forest Schools at Ae and Auchenrodden. We are committed to a partnership approach that Engagement with secondary schools through FEI and allows communities to work with us and other national policy is likely to become more vocational organisations and groups to plan, develop and and linked to rural skills programmes. We will look deliver their aspirations, and to support a wide range to providing work experience opportunities for of woodland uses. Partnerships bring significant pupils within the constraints imposed. Another amounts of additional resource and investment to key group for us are individuals with learning or support various projects. There are varying degrees behavioural difficulties who would benefit from of formality, from binding legal agreements and a forest experience. Some local outdoor activity formal concordats to very loose arrangements centres make use of the forest for activities, and based on shared objectives or special interests. increasingly groups from further afield are being In practice, the least formal relationships can be attracted to the 7stane sites for mountain biking. the most productive by focusing on outputs. We are actively engaged in supporting the provision Our role in these partnerships appears to of educational opportunities to local, national and be delivering the long-term base for the international visiting groups, including at Glentress community groups to build from and deliver where the district has had a long association with the additional benefits that we do not have the the University of Edinburgh through the trial area. resources to provide. This is proving to be a The importance of the contribution that successful combination for all partners, although forests can make to combating climate change, servicing these groups can be demanding in and the practices we are adopting in new staff time. Time needs to be invested at an building and business sustainability, provide early stage to make a realistic evaluation of opportunity to raise public awareness of the group objectives, aspirations and capacity. role of forests and timber in practice.
40 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Key theme: community development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Woodlands in and around towns
D&B Identify proposals for acquisition of land/woodlands in close proximity to towns. 4.01
D&B Work with local authorities to develop and promote access to forests without needing a car 4.02 e.g. by safe multi-user routes or by public transport.
Community engagement
Maintain a programme of forest panel meetings and local consultation on forest design plans D&B as they are revised. Continue to develop links with local communities to seek to make sure 4.03 that management of the national forest estate reflects both local and national objectives
D&B Identify ways of increasing contact with all communities adjacent to forests to provide 4.04 regular information on local forest operations and other activities.
Engage with and support communities currently, or wishing to become, active in the D&B management of their local forest e.g. woodlands in the Forestry Commission Scotland 4.05 woodlands in and around towns initiative.
D&B Maintain and increase the opportunities to engage with communities of interest in the forest 4.06 e.g. mountain biking, equestrian, access, special needs.
Community ownership
D&B Receive positively all community approaches on purchase and process applications that fit 4.07 the criteria published in the National Forest Land Scheme as quickly as possible.
D&B Inform community councils of forests for any sale in their area as soon as possible to give 4.08 them adequate time to consider their position.
41 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme four: community development
Key theme: community development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Learning
D&B 4.09 Work with the Forest Education Initiative and the education sector to make greater use of (see also woodlands for outdoor learning, focusing in particular on facilitating use rather than always D&B leading groups directly. 3.03)
D&B Work with schools in close proximity to forests that are interested in an 4.10 ongoing connection with their local forest e.g. through forest schools.
D&B Review volunteer programme and identify ways to increase the level, 4.11 range and scope of volunteering activity in the forest.
D&B Continue to host and facilitate visits by a variety of groups including 4.12 local, national and international policy makers and specialists.
D&B Prepare a district learning strategy. 4.13
Partnerships
D&B Continue to work with existing partnerships e.g. Cairnhead community forest trust and 4.14 Newcastleton Business Forum.
D&B Actively consider partnership approaches by stakeholders or businesses to develop local 4.15 capacity or grow the local economy.
42 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Recreation Many forests have formal recreation facilities, such as car parks, mountain bike routes, picnic areas, viewpoints and waymarked trails that are currently adequate to meet the demand in the majority of areas. Additional facilities such as toilets are provided at the busier sites, such as Glentress and Mabie.
Development of the 7stanes mountain biking The downhill courses at Ae and Innerleithen have centres across the south of Scotland has brought a national reputation as competition venues. a significant increase in the quality of recreation It is, however, a niche market with incumbent provision and in the profile and use of the forest. management issues for Forestry Commission Continuing maintenance and improvement of the Scotland requiring a long-term sustainable solution. quality of provision on the extensive network of trails We deliver a full events programme, including are essential for visitors’ enjoyment of the woods performing arts, often in partnership with and recreational user satisfaction. Safety standards community groups, with the intention of appealing must also consistently improve as the visitor to a wide range of interests and ages. We also numbers increase, but without impacting on people’s provide a wide range of opportunities for more enjoyment of their chosen activity. No further trails specialist activities, such as orienteering and field are planned and the focus is on the maintenance and archery that are run through a permissions system. enhancement of the existing sites. The development of a major new gateway visitor service centre for the The interpretation of the natural and cultural Tweed valley, at Glentress, is currently underway. environment has been undertaken in various ways over the years. This should be continuously Recreation development and increasing visitor refreshed, with an increasing move from numbers can have a negative environmental impact traditional panels to more interactive or through disturbance and erosion etc. We will address art-based forms. There is opportunity for this through assessments prior to any enhancement interpretation to be developed around a ‘climate of facilities and through appropriate management. change and the role of forestry’ theme.
43 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Making access easier Forestry Commission Scotland has operated Information on access and facilities is available a policy of open access for walkers, riders and in leaflet form and on the internet. There is cyclists for many years. This is now enshrined in scope for more use of modern technology Scottish legislation as a right of responsible access. in providing this type of information. As part of the legislation, core path networks We have started a programme of managing provide links between communities and greater threshold areas of the forests to make the forests access to walking and cycling routes for all. Where more welcoming to the public. The ongoing appropriate, we support the designation of core issue with unauthorised motor bike access is paths through the forests. There are some trails being tackled with the help of the police. for less able visitors with scope for more routes, We do not work in isolation, as many of the although many of the forests, particularly in the forests also provide links for longer trails, and Tweed valley, are on relatively steep valley sides. we take part in the local access forum. We However, by working with the Roughriders, we have also been involved in Countryside Trails have established downhill trails for specially and Tweed Trails that have greatly increased adapted mountain bikes in Ae, Glentress and the access opportunities in the region. Innerleithen. We have changed the design of gates in popular horse riding areas to make access easier. There is also a high level of informal use of the forests. Unfortunately, most of the forests managed by the district are some distant from the main populations and normally only accessed by car. This distribution reflects past policies and land availability. Priority should be given to communities that currently do not have ready access to woodland, either on foot, bicycle or by public transport, when considering possible new woodland acquisitions for community woodland.
44 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Health
There are real opportunities to encourage Walking is enjoyed by a very wide ability and healthy outdoor pursuits in the forest areas. age group. We have been actively engaged with The district’s forests are enjoyed by a variety Paths2Health through events and promoting of user groups, and opportunities afforded Forests for Health, but there has been limited by 7stanes, Countryside Trails and Dog response to our efforts of engagement with the Sport Scotland are increasingly helping to health authorities to identify opportunities for encourage local young people to stay active. greater use of the forests in improving health. We Mountain biking has seen a large and rapid will continue to try to establish these links. There increase in the number of visitors to the 7stane is scope for significantly more development for sites, including many people who would not supporting improvements in both mental and have used the woods in the past. The initial trails physical health, given adequate resources, and tended to be more demanding, reflecting the building on the previous work with the Scottish nature of the sport’s growth. During phase two of Association for Mental Health at Glentress the development the number of easier grade and family trails were increased, and the 7stanes’ team promoted mountain biking to a wider audience.
45 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Key theme: access and health
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Recreation
Review and revise the district recreation and tourism strategy. Prepare D&B formal site plans for all the recreation facilities including a review 5.01 of how they address our diversity and equality aims.
D&B Seek further investment to maintain and enhance current facilities and to increase their use 5.02 by local people.
D&B Consistently implement best practice in sustainable design and management and in safety 5.03 on all our recreation sites.
D&B Update our key interpretative facilities and implement the Tweed Valley Forest Park 5.04 interpretation strategy.
D&B Target management activity where there is greatest need and best value for money including 5.05 fulfilling our diversity and equality aims.
D&B Consider investment in new facilities where it delivers significant local benefit or fulfils our 5.06 diversity and equality aims. Funding needs also to address future maintenance commitments.
D&B Complete the construction of Glentress Peel and develop its role as a flagship facility and 5.07 orientation point for the Tweed valley.
D&B Commit to ensuring the maintenance of the trails and infrastructure of 7stanes and to work 5.08 with partners and businesses to develop the product for the wider audience.
46 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme five: access and health
Key theme: access and health
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Making access easier
D&B Work with local access officers and the access forum to identify appropriate routes on the 5.09 national forest e state that will form part of the core path network.
D&B In consultation with specific user group representation review the provision for appropriately 5.10 scaled and located all abilities facilities and seek resources to implement recommendations
D&B Review the information available on the recreation facilities and on general access to the 5.11 forests and make recommendations for amendment by June 2010.
D&B Continue to make the thresholds of all suitable forests more welcoming through signing, 5.12 easier access and management of entrances.
Work with the police to continue to tackle the issue of unauthorised motor vehicle access D&B to forests and other anti-social behaviour.scaled and located all abilities facilities and seek 5.13 resources to implement recommendations
Health
Promote and facilitate greater use of the national forest estate for physical activity through D&B working with health professional and Forestry Commission Scotland health co-ordinators to 5.14 undertake measures such as support for walk leaders.
D&B Improve and target information provision and promotion of healthy activities, with an 5.15 emphasis on people who currently do not make use of the forests.
Raise awareness and provide information for staff on health and lifestyle issues through a D&B nominated district champion.scaled and located all abilities facilities and seek resources to 5.16 implement recommendations
47 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Sustainable development underpinned by sustainable forest management and social inclusion is the overarching theme. UK forest standards define the minimum standard for sustainable management of Britain’s forests. Beyond this, the national forest estate is managed to the UK Woodland Assurance Standard and is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.
Soil, water and air quality Good practice, such as Forestry Commission Many of our forests are in the catchments of Scotland forests and water, and soil conservation the rivers Tweed, Nith, Esk and Annan, which guidelines, will generally protect soils on flatter are important fish spawning areas. A number to moderate terrain from erosion, compaction of domestic water supplies also have their or loss of nutrients, but the district does face catchments wholly or partially in the forests, challenges in operating in steep terrain. The ranging from individual supplies to reservoirs inherent technical difficulties, plus extreme providing town supplies. We protect water weather events and low economic feasibility, quality on the national forest estate by adhering mean that work is required in this area to find to forests and water guidelines and controlled solutions. This is most notable in parts of the activity regulations in all our operations, together forests in Upper Nithsdale and in the Tweed valley, with good forest design and the identification of where scree and the high visibility of the forests forest habitat networks at a catchment level. above the River Tweed add a further dimension.
48 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Soil, water and air quality (continued) Landscape Forests may have a increasing role in the Although the district’s forests are relatively recent, management, protection and enhancement of they are a significant feature in the landscape helping water resources, such as through the creation of to create a sense of place and making a positive flood plain woodland and as part of sustainable contribution to landscape quality. Each landscape flood alleviation measures to protect vulnerable has its own characteristics, but in the past forests settlements. Scottish Borders Council is leading have not always been planted and managed in a pilot study on sustainable flood management sympathy with that character. We must make sure in the Craik area. (see key theme one) that the restructuring of the forests, including the The EU water framework directive sets out adjustment of external boundaries through the demanding targets for improving and maintaining forest design plan process, maintains or enhances water in good ecological condition. Delivery of these features and the wider landscape in general. the targets requires the involvement and co- Some forests lie in the East Stewartry and Nith Estuary operation of all landowners and water users national scenic areas, and in regional scenic areas in the catchment. The directive requires the and areas of great landscape value. Other forests preparation of a river basin management plan not in designated sites, such as those in the Tweed covering the Tweed and the Solway, which should valley, are particularly sensitive to change and form be complete by December 2009. There are a backdrop to communities and tourist activities. more detailed management plans for individual A strategic landscape analysis of the forests of the catchments and we will continue to work with the Tweed Valley Forest Park has been prepared to guide Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, Tweed the preparation of individual plans and to increase Forum and others to maintain and improve the harmony between them. This is one of the areas ecological status of the region’s water bodies. where the use of lower impact silviculture systems can help minimise impact of harvesting on key landscapes.
49 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Cultural heritage There is a rich historical and cultural heritage in the district’s forests, including chambered cairns, hill forts and settlements. Some of these have a special local cultural significance or are associated with folklore and ballads, particularly in the Borders. These sites are safeguarded and there has been some interpretation, but there is scope for more, particularly in partnership with local communities and interest groups, such as Borders Forest Trust, which has helped to raise local awareness of the value of the remnant woodlands and heritage trees in the Scottish Borders.
50 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Key theme: environmental quality
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Soil, water and air quality
D&B Work with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, Tweed Forum and the fisheries 6.01 boards to plan and implement local actions in the river basin management plans and area (see also catchment management plans to contribute to the achievement of good ecological and D&B chemical status for the region’s water bodies by 2015, and in the protection of the Tweed 1.11) special area of conservation.
D&B Effectively implement Forestry Commission Scotland forests and water, 6.02 and soils guidelines and the controlled activities regulations.
Consult key stakeholders, particularly the Scottish Environmental D&B Protection Agency to identify site and downstream issues on sensitive 6.03 sites to inform the development of detailed operational site plans.
D&B 6.04 Support the delivery of actions identified in the climate change action plan to identify slope (see also instability issues in sensitive locations and develop local site management strategies. D&B 1.12)
51 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
Key theme: environmental quality
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Landscapes
Continue to include landscape characteristics and sensitivity as a major consideration in D&B long-term forest planning. Resolve issues and make balanced decisions on the rate and scale 6.05 of change taking into account other issues such as economics and biodiversity value.
Continue to include landscape characteristics and sensitivity as a major consideration in D&B long-term forest planning. Resolve issues and make balanced decisions on the rate and 6.06 scale of change taking into account other issues such as economics and biodiversity value.
Cultural
Continue to work with local archaeologists and Historic Scotland to protect the ancient D&B monuments in our care and to make sure that cultural heritage issues are adequately 6.07 addressed in forest design plans and site plans.
Record known unscheduled monuments in the Forestry Commission D&B Scotland geographic information system and agree management 6.08 plans for schedules monuments with Historic Scotland.
D&B Train field staff to identify potential cultural sites. 6.09
D&B Work with Historic Scotland and others to identify key locations suitable for interpretation 6.10 e.g. Dumfries and Galloway Archaeosights, including sites with local folklore associations.
52 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Species and habitats We will make sure that we meet the legal requirements for protected species under the Nature Conservation (Scotland) Act, Wildlife and Countryside Act, European habitats directive and the various conservation regulations. We will address the conservation of most species, including many of the UK and Scottish priority species, through general forest management and habitat management prescriptions, and through building resilient habitat networks.
The district has a significant range of habitats, The lowland mire sites are well represented in including priority habitats. These tend to be smaller the west, with around 700 ha with potential for and more fragmented in the east of the district. restoration. Priority is currently focused on the The priority is to continue the recording of these Longbridgemuir complex (see designated sites). sites and identify scope for expansion through the forest design plan process to increase the forest diversity, as well as to support the local and national biodiversity action plan process. We will investigate Scottish Borders Council’s strategic planning tool for wetland biodiversity conservation, the Borders Wetland Vision, as an aid to forest design planning and for options for restoring or recreating wetland.
53 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Species and habitats (continued) Native woodlands are poorly represented in Targeted work is also undertaken on some locally the district with only around 1% of the area important species, such as goshawk, osprey, great either classed as semi-natural woodland or crested newt, bats, short eared owl and barn owls. plantations on ancient woodland sites (PAWS). Invasive non-native vegetation is not, at present, This proportion is even lower in the east of the a significant issue in the district. We have carried district. Although these areas are small, they are out small control programmes for rhododendron, locally significant. Restoration of PAWS sites, salmon berry and Japanese knotweed. It will be and the enhancement and further expansion necessary to manage conifer regeneration in of native woodland and associated open open space where the intention is for the site habitats, will continue to be a high priority. to be permanently open. Its removal will also be necessary above an agreed level in broadleaf There is a similarly diverse range of species in woodland areas. Invasive non-native fauna the national forest estate. We can address the include mink and signal crayfish, which are both conservation of many of these species through monitored with the river fisheries boards. good practice in forest planning and operations. Where additional input is required, priority will be given to European protected species (all bat species, otter, great created newt and slender naiad) and to priority species identified in the Forestry Commission Scotland biodiversity plan (red squirrel, black grouse, juniper, pearl bordered fritillary). Species action plans will direct the specific management requirements for species such as black grouse, nightjar, red squirrel and pearl bordered fritillary. There are no national strongholds for red squirrels in the district, but a number of the larger conifer forests in the south-east of Scotland are designated priority forests. Management for red squirrel remains a priority, but it is becoming increasingly challenging as the restructuring of these even- aged forests continues. Grey squirrels infected with squirrel pox are now in the district. We are committed to monitoring and controlling grey squirrels, in conjunction with Scottish Natural Heritage, to protect native red squirrels.
54 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Ecosystems The conifer forests form large-scale habitats that Deer population management is a high with appropriate and restructuring advances priority. Roe deer are found throughout the are developing as ecosystems in their own right. district and red, sika and fallow deer are all The restoration and creation of other habitats found locally. We will continue to take part in in the district, such as native woodland, upper the relevant deer management groups. Work margins, wetland and riparian corridors, all takes carried out as a result of additional resource place in the context of the wider conifer forest input over recent years to bring populations system. This will provide relatively undisturbed to levels which permit regeneration has been areas allowing natural processes to take priority. largely successful, but there remains some More work is needed to manage these new requirements for fencing or tubes to allow the habitats in the initial phase. This includes more sensitive species to establish quickly. removal of conifer regeneration and further enhancing the value of the conifer forests by identifying and maintaining deadwood reserves. Significant opportunities exist to enhance and expand the ranges of protected species, as well as offering some buffering to climate change, through the increased use and promotion of habitat networks in the wider landscape. The Scottish Borders Woodland Strategy identifies at a broad level the forest habitat network for the Borders and work is currently underway in the west to determine the potential for Dumfries and Galloway. This will be an ongoing process, requiring continued collaboration with neighbouring landowners and South of Scotland Conservancy staff, and will influence long-term forest planning decisions.
55 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Designated sites The diverse environment gives rise to a high The aim is to maintain or achieve favourable or biodiversity in the district. We have a responsibility unfavourable recovering conservation condition for parts of seven designated sites and, except for all these areas, as far as possible. (See Table one for the Tweed special area of conservation, we below and Appendix one: ‘Location of national manage these areas in accordance with plans parks, national scenic areas, forest parks and agreed with Scottish Natural Heritage. areas of great landscape value’; and ‘Location of national nature reserves, Natura sites, sites of special scientific interest and ancient woodlands’.)
Name Area Type Condition Longbridgemuir 317 ha Lowland raised mire Unfavourable recovering SAC Tweed SAC N/A Watercourse with high ecological diversity (no plan required) Glenkinnon burn 8.0 ha Upland mixed and ash woodland Unfavourable recovering SSSI Plora wood SSSI 2.5 ha Semi-natural woodland Unfavourable recovering Palmers hill 1.2 ha Non-marine Devonian geological Favourable maintained cutting SSSI Kielderhead SSSI 1086 ha Upland dwarf shrub heath and bog Favourable maintained Abbey Burnfoot to 4.7 ha Coastal Unfavourable Balcarry Point
(SAC = special area of conservation; SSSI Around 75% of the Borders forests are in the = site of special scientific interest.) catchment of the river Tweed special area of conservation and their management must The Solway Mosses, covering over 1,000 ha in take account of the potential impact on water the district, is one of the most significant raised quality and river morphology as well as the mire complexes in western Europe. We are qualifying species – Atlantic salmon and otter. currently working with Scottish Natural Heritage in investigating the future potential restoration of the Mosses following a successful EU LIFE project (2001-03) supporting work on part of the area. This will remain a priority for action.
56 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Increasing awareness and Geodiversity improving knowledge The national forest estate has a significant role There are gaps in our knowledge of what occurs in conserving Scotland’s geodiversity, which on the national forest estate and in baseline data includes the variety of rocks, minerals, fossils, on condition and populations. We need to address landforms, and sediments and soils, together these through working with our own staff and with with the natural processes that form or alter local experts who know the ground, and through them. We have one designated sites of special increasing and targeting of species and habitats scientific interest, at Palmers Hill. Our road monitoring. We are building our understanding of construction work has exposed some interesting the open ground habitats through surveys carried geological formations over the years and we out at the time of forest design plan revision. are working with a pilot geodiversity group, Biodiversity is a key issue in all forest design GeoD, in Dumfries and Galloway developing plans and is becoming integrated into all our links to education and interpretation. decision-making. The use of models such as the Forest Research biodiversity decision-support tool BEETLE or the Borders Wetland Vision needs to be built into our decision-making processes. The use of thinning and alternative to clearfell systems as tools to maximise biodiversity gains is also currently limited and we continue to work with Forest Research and other bodies to increase our understanding in this area. Our local forests contain a wealth of biodiversity interest, much of which is inaccessible to the general population through lack of awareness. There is some good local work, such as the involvement of volunteers at the osprey centres at Glentress and Kailzie, in helping visitors to understand and appreciate the wildlife on view. There are more opportunities through school visits and involvement, and targeted events programmes. In the past, community projects such as red squirrel monitoring and regular volunteer programmes through the Green Team have helped to increase awareness and involvement in conservation management.
57 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Key theme: biodiversity
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Species and habitats
D&B Review progress in restoring plantations on ancient woodland sites by 7.01 June 2010 and set out targets for the next phase of restoration.
D&B Continue to develop the area of native woodland and assess 7.02 the potential for its expansion within the district.
Survey all open ground habitats in the district as each forest design plan is D&B revised to identify priority habitats and opportunities for expansion and for 7.03 moorland fringe development in balance with our other objectives.
D&B Continue to take account of the need to protect and enhance the prospects for 7.04 our priority species in future forest structure and management practices.
Landscapes and ecosystems
Diversify planted woodlands through restructuring and the use of an appropriate D&B range of silvicultural systems including an increase in natural reserves, long- 7.05 term retentions and the volume of deadwood in the forest area.
D&B Collaborate with neighbouring landowners, South Scotland Conservancy and 7.06 Scottish Natural Heritage to create functioning landscape-scale habitat networks.
D&B Work with local deer management groups to manage deer population 7.07 over their range, recognising the interests of all parties.
58 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Key theme: community development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Designated sites
Work with Scottish Natural Heritage and other partners to develop and D&B implement a management plan for the restoration of the remaining areas of the 7.08 raised mires of the Solway Mosses. Seek funding for the implementation.
Use management plans agreed with Scottish Natural Heritage to achieve D&B 95% of features on the parts of the designated sites in our control being in 7.09 favourable or unfavourable recovering condition classes by 2012.
Continue to take account of the potential impact of management proposals on D&B neighbouring designated of NATURA sites in forest plans and operational plans 7.10 with the aim of protecting and, where appropriate, enhancing their status.
Increasing awareness and improving knowledge, integration and co-ordination for better decision making
Promote the profile and awareness of biodiversity requirements during D&B stakeholder engagements, school visits and forest plan consultations. Encourage 7.11 communities and volunteers to be actively involved in biodiversity projects.
D&B Build on the existing osprey viewing projects to further develop wildlife 7.12 watching and interpretation on the national forest estate.
D&B Prepare a district biodiversity plan, based on the national template. 7.13
D&B Continue to update and develop the district knowledge on the biodiversity present in the 7.14 forest, its status and requirements. Maintain the geographic information system records layer.
Geodiversity
Work with Scottish Natural Heritage and other partners e.g. GeoD, to D&B identify important geodiversity sites on the national forest estate and 7.15 maintain and enhance them through the forest plan process.
59 | 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.
60 | 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:
61 | 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 policy Informal monitoring include activities such as: obligations to fulfil and often also audited by external parties. Important areas • contract progress covered under this heading include: • site visits • personal budget monitoring • monitoring of overall standards (e.g. • work programme monitoring compliance with forest plans, UK • time management Woodland Assurance Standard, etc.) • conservation monitoring The results from this informal monitoring have a • archaeological monitoring variety of both long and short-term uses, and are • health and safety monitoring a useful tool in improving our management skills. • business plan monitoring
They: We also have to monitor against the indicators identified in the Forest Enterprise Scotland strategic • are analysed and the recommendations plan for the national forest estate. These will then fed back, where appropriate, be amalgamated across all ten forest districts into our planning process to determine collective progress in delivering against the Scottish Forestry Strategy. These results • help to influence future management of the will be published annually at national level. forests and aid development of the future work programme and budget planning • can also help shape new local policies and improve 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.
62 | 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.
63 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
64 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
65 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendix one: supporting maps
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 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Produce an updated Yes This has been reviewed annually: Yes periodic forecast of timber • annual production currently production. 250,000 cubic metres, indicating a significant rise in 2007-2011 to an average 300,000 cubic metres and levelling out at 320,000 cubic metres from 2012; • the original thinning forecast has proved unachievable. In keeping with a national initiative, the thinning forecast has now evolved into a more robust methodology that indicates a lower (but rising) level of achievable thinning.
Make sure that the supply Yes Achieved in all years. Yes of timber from Forest Enterprise Scotland woodland resource is available at +/- 5% of the levels indicated in our production forecast over a working 5 year period.
70 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Continue to enter into Yes Achieved in general with ongoing Yes long-term contracts review as to the appropriate where appropriate mix and quantity required to with our major timber provide our customers with the customers and Forest supply base they require, while Enterprise Scotland maximising Forest Enterprise contractors, aiming to Scotland marketing needs. commit approximately 50% of the district’s timber production to this method of sale. Provide opportunities Partial Bio fuel options ranging from Yes for the development small-scale heating to large power of appropriate new generation (Lockerbie E.ON plant) businesses on the national are all being actively supported forest estate, with specific and developed. This work will reference to timber and continue. bio fuel products. Review district thinning Partial Thinning review undertaken with Yes policy during 2005 implementation plans being to incorporate new formulated during 2006/07 thinking and develop implementation plans to maximise the thinnable area of the estate.
71 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Move a lower proportion Partial We have successfully planned Yes of timber by public road. and started the installation of a network of strategic forest roads that will reduce the impact of timber traffic on rural communities and on weak, single- track public roads. Working with private companies, we have successfully facilitated use of low impact timber haulage vehicles for use on some of the forest roads (e.g. Heads of Valley).
72 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Make sure that every Partial Currently 94% of target, with Yes forest is part of an firm programme to meet approved forest plan by the 100% cover by 2008. 2008. Complete the survey of Partial Survey completed with action Yes ancient woodland sites in plans being implemented. the district and draw up a management programme by end-2005 to maximise environmental gains from restoration of the broadleaved woodland. Make sure that quality Partial Improvements to OGB4 targets are Yes timber crops are created ongoing with stocking densities for the future by achieving being affected by adjacency issues target re-stocking densities re 1.4 m rule. This remains a (OGB4) at planting by priority to address. planting suitable species Species choice is driven by local and provenances and policy. protecting them from damage by mammals, Increased wildlife management insects and fungi. resources over the period have resulted in acceptable levels of damage being achieved, with resultant crop health improvements.
73 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Improve age class diversity Partial Results are in keeping with Yes through planning of expectations regarding the clearfell areas, to achieve difficulties of restructuring even- minimum 2 m height aged first rotation forests on wet difference between soils. adjacent coupes. Clearfell and re-stocking have largely been worked on time, but some delays have occurred and windthrow has frequently intervened, notably the 1999 hurricane. We endeavour to adjust programmes to minimise the adverse effects of these natural events on our objectives. Forest planning procedures and business planning provision have been tightened to improve delivery of structural diversity, but this objective may not be fully met this rotation. There is a current argument in favour of extending the fallow period between felling and re- stocking to reduce pesticides use against Hylobius beetles. If this argument is accepted, it would have implications for achievement of this target at felling times.
74 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Monitor all crops to an Yes Ongoing monitoring is standard Yes appropriate level, using practice. the methods described Wildlife management targets in the relevant district are now at acceptable levels and policy statements to resources are being transferred to make sure that causes of support other conservation and damage can be identified protection objectives. and controlled by the appropriate method.
75 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Manage all sites of special Yes The clearance of timber from the Yes scientific interest in major Longbridgemuir raised bog accordance with agreed restoration (417 ha) as part of the plans endorsed by EU supported project has been Scottish Natural Heritage completed. and other conservation agencies where appropriate. Manage all existing Yes All 22 SAMs have agreed Yes scheduled ancient management plans in place. The monuments (SAMs) in past few years have seen some accordance with agreed SAMs being rescheduled by HS plans endorsed by and others being scheduled. Historic Scotland (HS). All existing SAMs to have management agreements in place by 2001. Additional SAMs to be covered within 12 months of notification.
76 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Continue to develop the Partial Phase 1 restoration via the EU Yes Solway Mosses lowland LIFE II bid was completed in raised bog restoration In 2003, with ongoing maintenance partnership with Scottish taking place since. Currently Natural Heritage (SNH), reviewing long-term maintenance Scottish Wildlife Trust and of the existing 417 ha site and others, via an EU LIFE III considering with SNH the bid. expansion to cover the total area of 1,000+ ha of restoration following an independent report of the bog condition. According to the report, if successful, the Solway Mosses could become the most important raised mire site in western Europe. Review draft potential Yes Priority woodland areas have been Yes priority red squirrel areas agreed with formal management with relevant stakeholders guidance plans being written by summer 2005. by South of Scotland Red Squirrel Group. We are currently continuing the implementation of ongoing policies while assessing wider actions in relation to the Scottish Executive national review, informed by Forestry Commission Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage.
77 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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 forest landscape, Partial Good progress has been made Yes particularly in Solway in opening up views hidden for national scenic area. a generation and in delivering much improved forest design throughout the district. There has been less success in retaining stands of tall growing trees, owing to the ravages of windthrow. We are continuing to take risks in retaining stands of tree on longer rotations (especially larch and pine) with the overall objective of keeping more mature trees in the forest landscape. Increase the area Partial The area of low impact Yes committed to low impact silviculture has been raised silviculture and improve significantly over the period. management techniques. But given our soils and relative exposure to windthrow, there are many technical difficulties and resource implications to reducing coupe size. More work is needed to identify and formalise management plans at the site level, as strategic plan and even forest design plans as yet take too general an approach.
78 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Seek ways for generating Partial Initial projects including 7stanes, Yes new opportunities Countryside Trails and Dog Sport for local employment Scotland have been implemented through the provision with ongoing work to expand and of recreational facilities develop delivery. and specialist use of the Scottish RAC Rally has contributed forest, including mountain £1+ million/year into the local biking, car rallying, 4x4 economy over the past four safaris and filming. years. Another five rallies and car testing last year contributed lesser amounts. Prepare a comprehensive Yes Strategy developed 2001 and has Yes recreation strategy, recently been updated with draft audit all current formal currently undergoing discussion. recreational provision and improve, upgrade or remove formal facilities based on an analysis of the above. Increase the area Partial Policy and delivery of this evolving Yes committed to continuous management regime is ongoing, cover forestry and with potential areas being improve management identified via forest design plans techniques. and specific trained staff resource. Increase awareness of, Partial Cairnhead Community Forest Yes and facilitate involvement Trust, Dalbeattie Forest in, the management Community Partnership and of the forest by local many other links at local level communities and are helping deliver this objective, communities of interest. within available resources.
79 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Meet requests for Yes The district is unique in terms of Yes educational visits to assist the wide range of forest resources teachers and others in and experience we are able to delivering the national offer customers. The forest is now curriculum and other being used an outdoor classroom educational needs. by an increasingly diverse range of stakeholders. The district also accommodates a number of other teams that provide support to a variety of educational and information events, including: • Technical Development (national office) • Forestry Training Services Operations (national centre) • South of Scotland Conservancy • Forest Enterprise Scotland Operations office; • Research outstation • Radio Electronics Branch outstation • Mechanical Engineers (southern office) • Cartographic office (national centre)
80 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders Forest District Scottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 5: To help communities benefit from woods and forests
Target description and Target achieved Comments Should this target be planned achievement date (yes/no/ updated and carried partial)? forward to new district strategic plan? Provide opportunities Partial The opportunity for tourism- Yes for the development based businesses to benefit from of appropriate new the woodlands has increased businesses in association significantly following the with Forest Enterprise eradication of foot and mouth Scotland-managed disease. We are actively engaged woodlands. with VisitScotland, Scottish Enterprise Dumfries & Galloway, Dumfries & Galloway Council and others to maximise this delivery, e.g. 7stanes, Countryside Trails, Dog Sport Scotland. Seek to involve Partial A number of partnerships have Yes communities across a developed over the past 10 years, range of activities in a notably Cairnhead Community manner consistent with Forest Trust, Dalbeattie Forest the nature and level of Community Partnership, Ae interest expressed by Youth Eye, 7stanes and Dog Sport communities and their Scotland, etc. current capabilities. We will continue to develop and expand all community and other links as resources allow.
81 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Strike a reasonable Partial Ongoing developments in relation to Yes balance in relation to renewable energy (e.g. Harestanes,
developments on the Clyde windfarms, bio fuel E.ON) national forest estate social housing (Ae Village, Moffat) between the aspirations and other benefits will continue to of local communities be progressed. and national policy We will continue to develop priorities to foster appropriate projects with outside community involvement, partners where communities are not responsiveness and prepared or able to become fully distinctiveness of forest involved. management at local level, within the wider policy framework. Enhance opportunities for Yes We continue to develop and work Yes health and enjoyment in with a number of partnerships in the forest environment support of this objective including: • Dumfries & Galloway Care Trust • 7stanes • Dog Sport Scotland • Countryside Trails • Community groups (CCFT, DFCP etc) • Equestrian tourism • Dumfries & Galloway Council Community Planning
82 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Work with our customers Yes Health and Safety standards are a Yes to improve the quality, high priority, with constant review efficiency and safety of of policy and actions. Increasing all forest operations and recreational use, particularly in recreational activities terms of mountain biking, is a to ensure they comply challenge. with health and safety legislation and industry best practice. Manage all woodlands Yes Ongoing. Constant review and Yes in accordance with improvement of standards taking the UK Woodland place to ensure we meet and often Assurance Standard. exceed objectives.
83 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders 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? Manage impact (positive Partial Computer infrastructure and Yes and negative) of staff capability has been greatly information technology. enhanced since 1999. Specialist training has been made available for key staff. Number of geographic information system (GIS) users has increased, supported by specialists in the Planning team Basic training is now available on Microsoft programmes for all staff, including attainment of European Computer Driving License. Engage staff in district Partial Ae Forest District Steering Yes policy development Committee, communications and and delivery to ensure briefing meetings all aim to deliver ownership of our aims. this. But there is always room for improvement.
84 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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.
85 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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.
86 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix four: List of local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes The table shows the plans for the two former districts that were amalgamated on 1 April 2009 to create Dumfries and Borders Forest District. Thematic plans are being prepared for the new district as outlined below. A review of the guidance notes currently in use will be carried out at the end of 2009 to identify those guidance notes that remain valid for the new district. These will be updated during 2010.
Ae Forest Scottish Dumfries District Borders & Borders Forest District Forest District Thematic plans Date Date Date Revision Comments produced produced produced planned* Business continuity plan 2009 2014 Conservation plan 2010 Awaiting national biodiversity plan Deer management strategy 2009 2012 Emergency and fire plan 2009 2009 2010 Monitoring plan 2008 2010 Plantations on ancient 2000 2007 woodland sites strategy Pollution control and waste 2008 2008 2010 management plan Recreation strategy 2005 2001 2010 Roads plan 2009 Safety policy statement 2009 2010 Sales plan 2009 2010 Thinning plan 2008 2008 2009 Tree safety management 2008 2010 Workforce plan New plan – will be produced in 2010 * Revisions may be brought forward if there is a significant change in policy or circumstances
87 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix four: List of local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes
Ae Forest Scottish Dumfries District Borders & Borders Forest District Forest District Management plans Date Revision Comments produced planned*
Business plan 2009 annual Forest plans various 10 years 64 plans in total Schedule Ancient various 5 years 51 plans in Monument plans total Shoot plans various 1 years 22 plans in total Site of Special Scientific various 5 years 6 plans in total Interest management plans (including 1 special area of conservation)
* Revisions may be brought forward if there is a significant change in policy or circumstances
88 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix four: List of local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes
Ae Forest Scottish Dumfries District Borders & Borders Forest District Forest District Guidance notes Date Date Date Revision Comments produced produced produced planned*
Broadleaves 2008 2007 Chemical use 2001 2008 Includes strategy for reducing usage Child protection Complaints and enquiries 2008 Community involvement/ 2008 2007/8 stakeholder consultation Cultural heritage 2008 Deadwood 2008 2008 Fallow strategy 2008 Fencing 2008 Goat management plan 2007 Grey squirrel 2008 Illegal/Unauthorised use of 2008 the forest Information Technology strategy Invasive species 2008 Low impact silvicultural 2008 2001 systems Native woodland creation Natural reserves 2008 2008 Non-timber forest 2008 products
89 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix four: List of local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes
Ae Forest Scottish Dumfries District Borders & Borders Forest District Forest District Guidance notes Date Date Date Revision Comments produced produced produced planned*
Permissions 2008 Planning and managing 2008 2008 open space Production forecast 2007 Forest ops and protected 2008 species Roads and tracks 2008 Scree slopes 2008 Signs 2008 Species selection (trees) 2008 2008 Urea application policy 2008 2008 Water framework directive 2008 Windblow 2008 2008 Work plans 2009
90 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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 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. It is very important that district staff are as objective as possible when applying the economic and non-market scoring set out below. The system was developed following piloting work at four forest districts (Cowal & Trossachs, Galloway, Moray, Tay) on the application of the scoring system. It was then tested across all districts in Scotland and 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. This work 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 plan unit is not particularly important; it is the positioning of units relative to each other that is of value in understanding where management time and resources should be best directed for maximum positive effect. Note: We set out to ensure the ratings allow managers to make objective, repeatable assessments based on existing data sets. Inevitably, a few grey areas remain and we flag up that habitat network and landscape ratings will require further definition in due course.
91 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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
92 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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
93 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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
94 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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
95 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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.)
96 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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 Stiddriggs 10 2 10 10 32 1 3 1 0 5 2 0 0 0 12
Kirkland 10 2 7 10 29 1 1 1 0 5 3 3 1 5 20
Queensberry 10 2 7 10 29 0 3 1 0 5 2 0 0 3 14
Castle O’er 10 4 10 2 26 1 1 1 0 3 3 0 0 5 14
Brownmoor 10 4 10 1 25 0 1 4 0 3 3 0 1 5 17
Blacklaw 10 2 10 2 24 0 1 1 0 1 2 2 0 5 12
Twiglees 10 2 10 2 24 0 1 1 0 5 3 0 0 5 15
Wauchope Burn 10 2 10 2 24 0 3 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 8
Burnfoot 10 2 10 1 23 1 3 2 0 3 2 0 0 5 16
Clauchrie 10 2 10 1 23 3 3 1 0 1 1 3 0 5 17
Dalmamacallan 10 2 10 1 23 1 1 2 0 3 2 0 0 5 14
Gledenholm 10 2 10 1 23 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 5 10
Meadshaw 10 2 10 1 23 0 3 2 0 3 2 0 0 2 12
Cardrona 10 2 10 1 23 1 3 1 0 1 3 0 1 3 13
Dalbeattie 10 0 10 2 22 3 6 2 10 3 8 3 5 5 45
Heathhall 10 0 10 2 22 3 1 6 8 3 3 3 1 5 33
Mabie 10 0 10 2 22 6 6 4 0 5 8 5 5 5 44
Grey Hill 10 2 10 0 22 0 3 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 7
Newcastleton 10 2 10 0 22 1 3 1 0 3 3 0 0 3 14
Buittle Hill 10 0 10 1 21 3 1 10 0 1 1 3 1 5 25
Criffel 10 0 10 1 21 1 6 2 0 3 3 5 2 5 27
Plascow 10 3 7 1 21 0 3 1 0 5 2 0 0 3 14
Rascarrel Moss 10 0 10 1 21 1 1 2 0 1 2 0 8 3 18
The Cote 10 2 7 2 21 0 1 1 0 1 2 0 0 5 10
Cademuir 6 4 10 1 21 0 1 1 8 1 3 0 1 5 20
Ladyurd 10 0 10 1 21 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 3 7
Auchenrodden 10 2 7 1 20 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 5 11
Craigieburn 10 2 7 1 20 1 6 1 0 1 3 0 5 5 22
97 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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 Earshaigs 10 2 7 1 20 0 3 1 0 3 2 0 0 3 12
Garrowgill 10 2 7 1 20 1 3 1 0 3 2 0 0 2 12
Little Clyde 10 2 7 1 20 1 3 1 0 3 1 0 0 2 11
Longbedholm 10 2 7 1 20 1 3 1 0 1 2 3 0 5 16
Old Forest 10 2 7 1 20 1 1 1 0 5 3 0 1 3 15
Gair 10 2 7 1 20 0 3 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 5
Tinnisburn 10 2 7 1 20 1 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 5
Falside 10 2 7 1 20 1 3 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 9
Cloich 10 2 7 1 20 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 3 5
Garwaldshiels 10 2 5 2 19 0 3 1 0 3 1 0 0 2 10
Greskine 10 2 5 2 19 1 3 1 0 3 1 2 0 3 14
Southwick Station 10 0 7 2 19 1 1 10 0 5 2 3 0 5 27
Hyndlee 10 2 7 0 19 1 1 2 0 3 2 0 0 2 11
Lethem 10 2 7 0 19 10 6 2 0 1 1 0 1 0 21
Peel 10 2 7 0 19 10 6 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 19
Craikhope 10 2 7 0 19 0 3 1 0 3 2 0 0 2 11
Crooked Loch 10 2 7 0 19 1 3 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 7
Swinnie 6 2 10 1 19 1 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 3 9
Craigielands 10 0 7 1 18 6 1 6 0 1 2 0 1 5 22
Polskeoch 10 2 5 1 18 1 6 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 11
Rivox 10 2 5 1 18 0 3 1 0 3 2 0 0 2 11
Shinnealhead 10 2 5 1 18 0 6 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 12
Southwick 10 0 7 1 18 1 3 2 0 1 1 2 0 5 15
The Doach 10 0 7 1 18 10 1 1 0 1 3 2 0 5 23
Tornat 10 0 7 1 18 10 1 10 0 1 2 5 8 5 42
Shankend 10 2 5 1 18 1 1 1 0 3 2 0 0 2 10
Whitrope 10 2 5 0 17 1 3 1 0 1 2 0 0 2 10
Hallmanor 6 0 10 1 17 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2
98 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
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 Kinharvie 10 2 2 2 16 1 6 1 0 3 3 2 5 3 24
Mark Hill 10 0 5 1 16 0 1 2 0 3 3 2 8 5 24
Screel 10 0 5 1 16 1 1 2 0 3 3 3 8 5 26
Elibank & Traquair 6 0 7 3 16 1 6 1 0 5 2 0 1 5 21
Glentress & Eshiels 3 0 10 3 16 0 3 1 10 5 10 0 1 3 33
Yair 6 0 7 2 15 1 6 2 0 5 2 0 1 5 22
Thornylee 6 2 7 0 15 1 1 4 0 1 2 0 0 3 12
Cairnhead 6 2 0 6 14 1 6 1 0 5 3 0 0 0 16
Lochar Mosses 6 0 7 1 14 10 1 4 0 1 1 3 0 2 22
Gamescleuch 6 0 7 0 13 1 6 1 0 5 2 0 0 0 15
Caberston 6 0 7 0 13 1 3 0 2 5 3 2 0 2 18
Euchanhead 10 1 11 3 6 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 12
Dollar 3 0 7 1 11 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 2
Lockerbie House 7 1 8 6 1 4 0 1 1 0 0 5 18
Greenwood & Renton 0 4 0 0 4 1 0 2 0 1 0 0 1 0 5
Nether Linkens 2 1 3 0 3 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 5
99 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Appendices
Appendix five: Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
****** FOREST DISTRICT - PORTFOLIO ANALYSIS SCORING BY FOREST BLOCK
35
30
Forest Block or FDP
25
20
15 ECONOMIC BENEFITS
10
5
0 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 NON-MARKET BENEFITS
100 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013 Strategic Plan
Forestry Commission Scotland serves as the forestry directorate of the Scottish Government and is responsible to Scottish Ministers Contact Dumfries and Borders Forest District Ae Village Parkgate Dumfries DG1 1QB Tel: 01387 860247 Fax: 01387 860312 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland
If you need this publication in an alternative format, for example, in large print or in another language, please contact:
The Diversity Team Forestry Commission Silvan House 231 Corstorphine Road Edinburgh EH12 7AT
Tel: 0131 314 6575 E-mail: [email protected]
Published by - Forestry Commission Scotland - December 2009 © Crown Copyright 2009
All photography from Forestry Commission Picture Library unless otherwise stated Designed by AVC Media Enterprises, for Design and Interpretative Services, Forestry Commission Scotland, Edinburgh FCFC***/FC-S(DIS)/DP-**-AUG09