Forest Watch

Forest Watch : The Woodland Trust Report on the State of Our Forest

2011-12-02T10:39:00.000Z

The New Woodland Trust Report

Open publication - Free publishing - More forest

Jubilee Woods and Tree Week 2011

2011-11-27T07:45:00.000Z

Cardiff tree planting event
Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal once again showed her support for the Jubilee Woods project. She planted a tree at St Peter's Community Hall in Fairwater, Cardiff which was attended by children from a local school and a group of teenagers from a Young Offenders Institute. Just three years ago, this community garden was a wasteland but, with the help of the Woodland Trust and our free community packs, it is now described as a "haven of peace" in the heart of Wales' capital.

National Tree Week – 26th November – 4th December
It's National Tree Week (26th November – 4th December) and what a great way to celebrate the start of the tree planting season. We'll be highlighting the importance of trees through our Facebook and Twitter feeds and you can also read more here .

Diamond Woods
We now have 35 confirmed diamond woods. That's over 1.5 million trees that will be planted as part of our Jubilee Woods project so far. We are well on our way to our target of 60 Diamond Woods but still need help to achieve this. See how you can help here. Thank you for helping us acquire our flagship Diamond Wood. We recently launched our local fundraising drive with an event that saw a fantastic turnout and real enthusiasm from the surrounding community. But we still need your support. Please donate now and help us maintain this momentum to achieve something wonderful in the heart of England.

Tree planting events
Our tree planting season is well under way with various events planned around the country. The Burghley Estate Diamond Wood is one of the first events and they areholding a tree planting event at the beginning of December with local school and communities involved. Please keep visiting the Jubilee Woods website to see what's happening.

Local fundraising
County Durham kicks off our local fundraising activities, where we want local communities to make a real difference to their county. We are putting together a fundraising toolkit for anyone who wants to get involved. This will be available soon on our website. The kit will be packed with exciting fundraising ideas, downloadable posters, donations forms and invites. Keep visiting our site to find out more.

Schools and community free tree packs
We have sent out an incredible 17,500 free tree packs to schools and a further 1000 free tree packs to communities – that's a phenomenal 750,000 free tree supplied by the Woodland Trust. As a result of this, 1,800 acres will be planted across the UK; equivalent to five times the size of London's Hyde Park! You can still apply for your free schools and community packs – a great way to celebrate Her Majesty The Queen's Diamond Jubilee and leave a lasting legacy for the future.	.

Plant a garden tree
We want you to get involved in the Trust's ambitious plans to plant a million garden trees. You can be part of this nationwide transformation by pledging to plant a tree. We can help you choose your tree and once it is planted you can add your story to our new Royal Record – history in the making!

World Heritage Forests Magazine

2011-11-15T19:14:00.000Z

Issue 61 of World Heritage quarterly magazine: World Heritage Forests

Known as the "lungs of the Earth", trees are crucial to our planet's biological balance. The United Nations designated 2011 International Year of Forests, and issue 61 of World Heritage magazine takes a closer look at a selection of the 104 World Heritage forests and the challenges they face, including Congo Basin forests (RDC), Rio Plátano Biosphere Reserve, (Honduras) Tropical Sumatran Rainforest Heritage (Indonesia), and Redwoods (USA).
See the full e-version of the issue: English | French | Spanish
World Heritage is UNESCO's quarterly magazine featuring in-depth articles, news reports and key interviews with the people behind the preservation and management of the world's most outstanding sites. Stunning photographs present monuments, cities, natural parks and landscapes from around the globe. This magazine is particularly designed to reflect and enhance UNESCO's dedication to World Heritage sites: our legacy from the past, our responsibility for the present and our duty to future generations.

Forest Commission England to Merge with Natural England?

2011-11-15T16:54:00.001Z

Looking at the recent changes at FC Wales and FC Scotland is there a forgone conclusion that the FC England Consultation Process will suggest a merger with the Environment Agency or Natural England?

Merger of FC Wales into a Single Environmental Body - help, please
Confor has been fighting for FC Wales to retain its independence, in the face of proposals to merge it with Environment Agency and Countryside Council Wales.
Merger will see forestry policy and delivery, as well as the public forest estate, dominated by a department focused on environmental regulation - restricting activity rather than enabling. It is also likely to lead to the break-up of the Forestry Commission and threaten key resources such as Forest Research.
Confor has led opposition, briefing Assembly Members, securing continued media coverage and challenging the weak business case developed by senior civil servants. We have also worked with other industry organisations to ensure there is a common front.
Kath has set up this petition. Please sign it and email on to your colleagues, friends and family.
http://www.petitiononline.co.uk/petition/keep-forestry-commission-wales-independent/3757
Kath McNulty, Confor's Wales manager, reports:
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=369

FC Scotland reorganisation
FC Scotland Director, Dr Bob McIntosh has been appointed to head a new Environment and Forestry department.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=370

Confor calls for forestry regulation report to be implemented
The Forestry Regulation Task Force, established by the minister in response to a request by Confor, delivered its final report and recommendations to government, in October.
The report, Challenging assumptions, changing perceptions, challenges government to look at the way the forestry sector is regulated and is the culmination of nine months' work gathering information, engaging with interested parties and seeking views. The Task Force makes 15 key recommendations, 26 recommendations and a further 14 recommendations to improve existing processes.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=371

Confor puts pressure on GLA
Confor has upped its lobbying effort for forestry to be excluded from the requirement to be licensed under the Gangmasters Licensing Act. With this position supported by the Forest Regulation Task Force, Confor has now sent a recent report on the GLA to key politicians.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/News.aspx?pid=23&id=988

Confor meets ministers on renewables and new planting
Confor chief executive Stuart Goodall and chair Colin Mann participated in a series of constructive industry meetings with Scottish ministers Fergus Ewing and Stewart Stevenson, who have responsibility for energy and forestry policy, respectively, and with UK energy minister Charles Hendry who has responsibility for the Renewables Obligation.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=373

Confor contributes to debate on England's forests
Forestry has rarely had a higher profile in England, but public debate has focused almost exclusively around the issue of ownership of the public forest estate (PFE). Websites such as the ‘Save Our Forest' site provide an interactive forum for discussion and the emergence of the ‘Our Forests' initiative provides a welcome new contribution to the debate, both beginning a process of looking at the important wider issues around forestry in England. In order to contribute to this emerging debate, Confor has now published on its website the first three of a series of papers on forestry in England.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/News.aspx?pid=23&id=965

Confor hosts Defra forestry team
Staff from across Defra's forestry team spent an informative day discussing financially sustainable forestry during visits to forests in southeast England organised at the invitation of Confor.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=375

Update on energy policy
The Scotland and UK Governments' long gestation of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) finally seems to be coming to an end, while the refining of the Renewables Obligation (RO) continues, with banding and rates under consultation. The overwhelming focus of government policy so far, through the RO, has been on electricity generation from windfarms and carbon capture technologies, with biomass seen, by Westminster at least, as part of the large base-load electricity generation mix. With the RHI, renewable heat is now being targeted.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=376

Confor welcomes revised UK Forestry Standard and Guidelines
The revised UK Forestry Standard and associated Forestry Guidelines have just been released after years of consultation and development. Confor has been involved in the process from the outset and generally welcomes the revisions. The documents set out the statutory framework for forestry, along with best practice guidance.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=377

Latest update on P ramorum:
Flight surveys have stopped for the winter, but compliance monitoring continues. The big news is the confirmed outbreak centred around Loch Dornal in Dumfries and Galloway. FC Scotland intends to designate the whole of Galloway as Zone 1, given real concern over the potential extent of the existing infection. Further sites in the vicinity are being inspected, and we can expect a changing scene.
Confor has been in liaison with FC Scotland on the response, including local controls and communication.
Note: A Sitka spruce on the site which had showed signs, has been confirmed as NOT P ramorum - seemingly, it is an algae.
FC is moving ahead with a composting trial in East Anglia: 500m³ will be heat treated for six to eight weeks, perhaps followed by full composting for another six weeks.
Authorised mills and agents are listed at: www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-876D2B

Plant health action plan
Caroline Spelman, environment secretary, recently announced an action plan to combat the exotic pests and diseases threatening the health of Britain's trees.

People trying to bring potentially infected plants and cuttings into the UK will face more-robust enforcement, and the government is putting £7m into research on combating new or exotic tree and plant pathogens.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=379

More disease
Fungus-like pathogen Phytophthora lateralis has been found in a Lawson cypress hedge in Plymouth. The disease is most common in western states of the US and Canada but there have also been outbreaks in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=380

Where next with conifers?
Confor needs your help - it will only take 5-10 minutes to respond.
In the light of pests and diseases, as well as climate change, James Hepburne Scott, of Alba Trees plc, is leading a Confor survey to find out members' views on species selection. Please take time to answer four questions.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=381

Views wanted on tree planting in Scotland
Dr Andrew Barbour, chairman of the Woodland Expansion Advisory Group, has called for views from across Scotland on how best to take forward woodland expansion. Confor is represented on the 18-strong group of farmers, foresters, conservation, community and land experts, which has been tasked with the job of providing Scottish ministers with advice on identifying which types of land are best for tree-planting.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=382

Confor works on woodland expansion in Scotland
Again, Confor is asking for your help. There are just two simple questions.
As part of ongoing efforts to further the delivery of more commercial softwood planting, both as new woodland creation and at time of restock, Confor is setting up a task & finish group to assist input to the Woodland Expansion Advisory Group (above), and also to the general promotion of industry's requirements.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=383

Confor urges FC to support statistics
Confor has written to the Forestry Commission (FC) highlighting the important role of the FC's statistics unit and asking that it be given sufficient resource to undertake its important industry activity.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=384

Northern Ireland Forest Service
There is change at the top for the Northern Ireland Forest Service: Malcolm Beattie is returning to head up the Forest Service as David Small finds a new post.

Lyme disease survey - please help
This is a survey of the experience of health services of people with tick-borne infections in the UK and Ireland (Eire). It has been set up by a group called LymeResearchUk and Ireland in conjunction with the charity Tick Talk Ireland and is led by independent researcher Kate Bloor. The survey is open from 14 October 2011 and will run for eight weeks.
http://www.lymediseaseaction.org.uk/latest-news/health-services-survey/
Any questions or enquiries about using this information can be directed to lymeresearchuk@mail.com

Confor Oscars - reminder
Have you submitted your video clip for a chance of winning a cash prize? Deadline for entries is 21 December 2011.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=360

Funding available for wild venison developments
Are you involved, or would you like to be involved, with wild deer management? Are you involved with wild venison processing and marketing? There is funding for those in east England, but it is hoped to roll it out across England. Evidence is required, so if it is of interest to you, please complete the expression of interest form by end of November.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=389

Nuffield scholarships
The closing date for applications for the 2012/13 Nuffield scholarships is 15 November 2011. Jez Ralph has just completed one and says: "It is a huge opportunity to see forestry across the world and a shame that more foresters do not take advantage of it. I'm happy for anyone to contact me to discuss it." Jez.Ralph@silvanus.org.uk http://www.nuffieldscholar.org/

EVENTS
Confor events:
International Forestry Exhibition 2012, at Ragley Estate, Alcester, Warwickshire, on 13-15 September 2012. Following a record-breaking first exhibitor site meeting in October, the next one is 10 November 2011. http://www.apfexhibition.co.uk/
Other events: http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=388

Woodland Trust and Forestry News Update

2011-09-19T15:01:00.006+01:00

Since the start of the year the Woodland Trust has achieved some major national successes in
our role as the voice for woods and trees. But as always your support has played a major part in this.

This special edition of our newsletter highlights how together we have made such a difference to woodland protection.

Planning to threaten your ancient woods and trees!

Over 11,500 of you helped save the existing wording around protection of ancient trees and
woods when the Government reduced over 1000 pages of planning policy to just 52. Thank
you - it was an amazing achievement, yet still more needs to be done to remove the damaging loophole in the draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). This new document
currently out for consultation will allow development 'if the need for and benefits of
development in that location clearly outweigh the loss' basically, economics trumps
environment.

Read our blog and learn more about the Woodland Trust's views

Loss of ancient woods and ancient trees is not acceptable. We want to help Government to
achieve its goal of creating clear planning guidance by simply removing the loophole. We have
had an emergency meeting with the Department for Communities and Local Government
(DCLG) telling them of our concerns over their presumption in favour of sustainable
development. They have asked us to suggest alternative wording.

Take part in our quick poll - should the Government remove the loophole?

Because you were so influential in getting the wording secured please back up our call to
remove the loophole. If Government doesnt hear us en masse and as loudly as possible through
its own channels, it could give them the excuse to disregard what's said. This is our only
opportunity to secure and strengthen protection for ancient woods and trees in the planning
system.

Respond to the official consultation

What next for the Independent Forestry Panel?

Over 4,000 Woodland Trust supporters did an amazing job in sharing with the Independent Forestry Panel their vision for the future of our woodland. Thank you so much for being the voice of woods and trees. The Panel received over 40,000 submissions in total, which they will now use to help create an interim report to Government about the future direction of forestry and woodland policy in England. The report is due in November.

As you would expect, we submitted our own distinctive viewpoint. You can read our official submission and what's next for the Independent Forestry Panel on our website.

High Speed 2 next stop your local ancient wood

The Woodland Trust made sure that our voice was heard during the public consultation about
the Government's proposed route plans for a high speed rail. In addition 6,500 of you signed our petition that helped shape our response. It's clear that our submission echoes many national concerns over the High Speed 2 (HS2) route.

Our key points focussed on the high level of damage to 21 ancient woodlands along the route.

The consultation may have closed but you can still have a voice. Our interactive map will show
you the woods under threat. Let us know what you think about the plans.

You can read our submission and use our interactive HS2 map via the campaigning section of
our website.

Woods under Threat Oaken Wood exclusive!

Quarrying continues to threaten ancient woodland in Kent. Permission was granted by Kent
County Council to destroy 33 hectares of valuable wildlife habitat. But after 5,000 of you joined
our campaign the case has been called in for a Public Inquiry by Eric Pickles - Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government. This is fantastic news!

Exclusive update: the Public Inquiry will start on 7 February 2012. The Woodland Trust will be
a key player in the proceedings. We are preparing our case to reverse this damaging planning decision and to save this beautiful woodland in association with Kent Wildlife Trust and local
action groups.

Watch this space for more information.

100,000th ancient tree discovered

Just five years after the start of the Ancient Tree Hunt when the 200 year old Major Oak in Sherwood Forest become the first ancient tree recorded, we have now reached the 100,000
mark. A majestic beech tree located in the National Trust's Ashridge Forest in the Chilterns has taken the coveted position of 100,000th tree recorded on to the Ancient Tree Hunt website. It measures 5.6 m around the trunk and is estimated to be around 200 years old.

Watch the 100,000th tree video

Sadly due to proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework these breathtaking
trees are not fully protected from developers. It is so important that we all take part in the consultation that will decide the future of these magnificent giants of nature.

Take part in the official NPPF consultation - your voice makes the difference.

Links or pictures not working? View this email online

This email was sent by the Woodland Trust (a charity registered in England & Wales 294344 and
in Scotland SC038885). A non-profit making company limited by guarantee, registered in England (1982873) at its UK office in Kempton Way, Grantham NG31 6LL. Phone 01476 581111

Biomass Forestry Enews From Confor

2011-09-19T14:14:00.003+01:00

FC England reorganisation - Confor response

Like most parts of government, FC England has been subject to deep cuts to its budget. Following an internal review and staff consultation, a new structure is being developed within the timeframe of the current financial settlement, up to 2014/15. Read more...

Renewable Energy Association launches 'Back Biomass' campaign and RSPB produces report
A recently launched REA campaign and RSPB report address sustainable sourcing of biomass for renewable energy, but do not address issues of UK wood supply. Read more...
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Confor's submission to the England forestry panel and new industry film

While Confor’s chief executive, Stuart Goodall, sits on the independent forestry panel, he is not there formally as a representative of Confor. Confor has responded to the consultation undertaken by the panel. Read more...
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Joint industry letter to Welsh minister
Confor joined with other industry organisations to appeal to John Griffiths, Wales Minister for Environment and Sustainable Development, for FC Wales to be excluded from a proposed merger with the Environment Agency and the Countryside Council for Wales, and for all matters forestry to be the responsibility of one minister. This letter accompanies continued direct lobbying by Confor of other ministers and politicians from all parties, as well as, a number of meetings with key officials. Stuart Goodall also provided evidence to the Office of Government Commerce, who undertook a review into the process surrounding the proposed merger.
Read more...
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Confor briefs Scots farming journalists and secures seat on advisory group
Confor organised an extremely successful visit by Scots farming journalists to the BSW/Howie sawmill and a local estate, whose forest is managed by Scottish Woodlands. The visit followed months of negative press around new tree-planting that was damaging the forestry sector. Farming journalists gained an appreciation of the forestry and wood-processing sector and took away a much more supportive attitude to appropriate woodland expansion. The success of the event could perhaps be best measured by the chief executive of NFU Scotland who commented ‘you must have played a blinder!’
Scottish Government has also established an advisory group to explore practical mechanisms for woodland expansion that includes Confor. The first meeting of the group was described as “frank and constructive” by its chairman, Andrew Barbour, a Confor member. Read more...

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Confor supports new service set to boost timber industry innovation
Confor is supporting the Wood Products Innovation Gateway (WPIG), a £1.5m, three-year initiative to raise the value of the forest resource in Scotland. It aims to help Scottish small businesses to develop a whole range of new added-value, wood-based products, processes and construction systems from Scottish-grown timber. Read more...
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P ramorum in larch in Derbyshire, Lancashire, Cumbria and west Scotland
Meetings have been held in the new outbreak areas to inform and raise awareness of the implications. A group of organisations’ representatives from across northern England, including Confor, led by Neville Elstone of Cumbria Woodlands, has been set up to assist with communications, similar to those set up in other affected parts of the country. Read more...
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Timber industry growth
The UK timber industry (incorporating imported as well as domestic production) has experienced growth for the first time in three years, according to a new report by the Timber Trade Federation (TTF). But a sharp rise in running costs and subdued demand sees many companies continuing to struggle. Read more...
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The Confor Oscars

It’s so easy now for anyone to shoot a film and post it on the internet and Confor would like to encourage this in a bid to raise public awareness of the sector. We would like to build a library of films and footage that we can showcase and promote.
So if you would like to go out and try your hand, or have already taken film of a large tree being felled, machines working, planting, woodland wildlife, conversations, or simply aspects of a day in your (forestry/woody) life, please share these with us, with a chance to win a great prize.
Read more...
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Gangmasters pilot
GLA has launched its trial of a lighter touch to the forestry industry. The pilot, launched on 08 August 2011, is scheduled to run for 12 months and will:
• test whether a lighter regulatory approach can be applied while still safeguarding vulnerable workers’ rights , and
• explore if companies that require a licence are more or less likely to comply with the GLA’s licensing standards.
Along with the pilot, the GLA has published two new briefs – one on the pilot and the other an update on how GLA sees licensing apply to forestry. http://gla.defra.gov.uk/
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Woodland Carbon Code
The Woodland Carbon Code launched in July, provides a consistent national approach, as well as clarity for potential investors. It is hoped that this will encourage businesses to buy the carbon in new woodland, thereby boosting woodland creation, confident that it has real value. In addition, Defra has issued new government guidance on how organisations should measure and report their greenhouse gas emissions.
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Confor's APF 2012 - First exhibitor site meeting

The first site meeting for exhibitors to choose their site for APF 2012 is 06 October 2011, at 2pm, at The Kings Court Hotel, Kings Coughton, Alcester, Warwickshire B49 5QQ. Confor members have priority and can meet at 11am. Read more...
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Biodiversity 2020
Biodiversity 2020 – a strategy for England’s wildlife and ecosystem services was published by Defra in August. There are some good words about forestry, including:
“We will bring a greater proportion of our existing woodlands into sustainable management and expand the area of woodland in England.”
Download the strategy here
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AOD research appeal and Plane disease; OPM

Woodland Heritage is appealing for donation to fund further Forest Research work on acute oak decline. Read the letter here
Meanwhile in London, a worrying disease, Massaria (Splanchnonema platani), has been confirmed. Previously only found in Germany and Holland, it is attacking the capital's iconic plane trees (Platanus 'x' hispanica). And the expansion of oak processionary moth beyond London has also caused concern. Read more...

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Utility arb courses

Two revised utility arboriculture courses are available from Lantra Awards for people working in proximity to electrical equipment for the purpose of maintaining or clearing trees and vegetation. Read more...
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Lantra's NOS consultation
Tree professionals are urged to participate in the final on-line consultation, from 01 September to 08 November 2011, to review the roles, skills and job responsibilities required for people working with trees and timber, and for a chance to win a new chainsaw. Read more...

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UKWAS update
The revision of the UK Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS) passed a key milestone in July when the UKWAS Steering Group concluded its final draft on schedule. This has been passed to FSC UK and PEFC UK who are seeking the standard’s endorsement through their international bodies. The objective is to achieve the necessary approvals prior to launching the UKWAS 3rd edition in November.
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Second chance from woodfuel fund in Yorkshire
Businesses have a second chance to apply for investment in woodfuel heating installations, boilers of 100kW or above. The investment comes from CO2Sense, the not-for-profit low carbon expert company. CO2Sense has already invested around £200,000 in new biomass installations this year. With payments under the RHI now confirmed, using woodfuel for heat is an excellent alternative to traditional fuels. Investment from CO2Sense does not have to be repaid until the installation is earning payments and making cost savings.
The deadline for applications is 30 September 2011. Contact Jan Phillips on 0113 237 8416 or
jan.phillips@co2sense.co.uk
To find out more, visit www.co2sense.co.uk
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Confor Events

North England regional meeting, to be held jointly with RFS, at Dalton Estate, East Yorkshire, on 28 September 2011. More details
Wales and Marches meeting in conjunction with Woodknowledge Wales and Forest Research: the first seminar in this second series on species choice will be held on 07 October 2011 at Brechfa Forest, Abergorlech, Carmarthenshire. More details
Confor’s APF2012, is to be held at Ragley Estate, Warwickshire, 13-15 September 2012
More details

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Forestry News Update

2011-08-07T13:42:00.001+01:00

Phytophthora ramorum update

Surveys have shown local spread of P ramorum in those areas already infected, but of a relatively minor scale. The hard winter may have helped to reduce spread. New outbreak sites have been identified in Derbyshire, Lancashire and Isle of Mull. If you see suspicious symptoms refer to: www.forestry.gov.uk/pramorum Tel: 0117 372 1070 or Email: plant_health_england@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
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Strategy to tackle pest and disease threats to Britain's trees

A new, interim strategy for protecting Britain’s trees and forests from pests and diseases was launched recently, pending an integrated cross-government approach to biosecurity, following the current EU review of its plant health regime. It is a response to the increasing threat to trees and woods from pests and diseases arising from the rapid expansion of global trade and the changing climate. It was prepared by FC under the direction of the GB Biosecurity Programme Board, representing the forest industries and the wider forestry and plant health community. Read more..
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Commons committee inquiry into Forest Research

ConFor submitted evidence to, and Stuart Goodall appeared in front of, an inquiry by the House of Commons Select Committee on Science and Technology into forest research and the effects of the 2010 Spending Review on the UK's ability to conduct and deliver forest research. Links to press release and evidence

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Forestry achieves returns of 20%

The 2010 IPD Forestry Index, which ConFor supports, was launched in Edinburgh, 22 June 2011. Forestry returns in 2010 reached their highest levels since 2007, at 20%. For the fifth consecutive year, forestry outperformed commercial property markets. As a strategic limited resource and with strong demand from all sectors, underlying investor sentiment has remained strong. As a result, forestry was one of the few property asset classes to avoid negative returns in the downturn. Read more..
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Successful first meeting with new Scotland forestry minister
ConFor’s chief executive Stuart Goodall and George McRobbie from Tilhill met the new minister with responsibility for forestry in Scotland, Stewart Stevenson, MSP. Read more..

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ConFor brings the industry together over SRDP

ConFor organised a summit on 01 June 2011 at Battleby for a cross-section of the industry to agree what needs to be done to the grant support mechanism so that we can successfully deliver the Scottish Forestry Strategy. Read more..
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Lochhead's first step towards land use strategy delivery

A new advisory group is being set up to help identify land best suited for tree-planting in Scotland. The announcement, on the 23 June 2011, signals the first step in the delivery of the Scottish Government’s Land Use Strategy and was made by Richard Lochhead, cabinet secretary for rural affairs and the environment.
The aim is to create stronger integration between the forestry and farming sectors, to ensure the balance between increasing woodland cover and safeguarding food production is effectively achieved. Read more.. A second round of the FC Scotland leasing scheme was also announced, which offers productive woodland to be created on farmland, which after 10 years, is returned gratis to the farmer.
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Forest losses in Scotland to be monitored on an ongoing basis

Following “encouragement” from ConFor and in recognition of its lobbying around forest loss, FCS has agreed to roll out to the whole of Scotland, the pilot study conducted in part of Perth & Argyll conservancy to monitor ongoing losses of forest. There will be two aspects to this work. First, a once-only study on the changes to forest area and species due to forest management, comparing now and forecasts for 10 and 20 years, under the categories of Sitka spruce, mixed conifers, broadleaves and open ground, and reported on a conservancy basis. This will take approximately six months to complete.
At the same time there will be ongoing monitoring set up to record the same changes due to “unconditional felling”, ie windfarms, habitat restoration and other development.
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ConFor shows FC Chair how plantations are being restructured

ConFor organised a successful visit for Pam Warhurst, FC chair, to a privately owned woodland and a fencing sawmill. The owner and UPM Tilhill manager hosted the visit in a Sitka plantation in Lancashire, where restructuring is taking place. With much lively debate, it was a great opportunity for Pam to see the ambitious approach to sustainable forest management, in the face of a range of challenges, taken by the private sector.
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Natural environment white paper and National Ecosystem Assessment

The white paper sets out a detailed programme of action to repair damage done to the environment in the past, and urges everyone to get involved in helping nature to flourish at all levels – from neighbourhoods to national parks.
The Natural Choice, the first white paper (policy) on the natural environment in 20 years, is directly linked to research in the National Ecosystem Assessment, also published recently (http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/natural/), showing strong economic arguments for safeguarding and enhancing the natural environment. Though the challenge of capturing the value of forests in concrete, financial terms remains. Read more..
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Committee on Climate Change

The Committee on Climate Change (CCC) released its 3rd annual report to Parliament recently. The CCC is an independent body established under the Climate Change Act to advise the government on emissions targets, and to report to Parliament on progress made in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The CCC's progress report introduced targets and indicators for forestry for the first time. The target is for at least 21,000 ha/yr woodland creation from 2015. Read more..
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Woodfuel implementation plan 2011-2014

Robert Bland, chair of ConFor's woodfuel suppliers group, joined FC chair Pam Warhurst in launching FC England's woodfuel implementation plan. The implementation plan will increase wood supply, an increasingly important objective shared by all working in forestry, by bringing more privately owned woods into management. It will also focus on supporting the development of local scale woodfuel use, a key objective of ConFor and the new suppliers group.
Read more..

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FC England restructuring

In compliance with the spending review 2010, which requires FC to make 25% savings, FC England has set out its restructuring plans.
Its corporate plan is at http://www.forestry.gov.uk/website/forestry.nsf/byunique/hcou-4ucf8j

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National Forest Inventory

Great Britain has more woodland than previous estimates indicated, according to provisional results from the National Forest Inventory. An increase in woodland area of 225,000 ha (8%), compared with the estimate for 2010, has been identified. The use of high-tech aerial photography, satellite imagery and the inclusion of small urban woods, has contributed to the substantial increase. It brings the new, estimated, total area of woodland to 2,982,000 ha (13%), across England, Scotland and Wales. Read more..
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ConFor re-branding

In order to clarify the positive nature of ConFor’s work and to more accurately reflect the sector which ConFor represents, as well as give a more contemporary feel, especially to the general public, ConFor is re-branding, including a new strapline, Promoting forestry and wood. Trees, woods and timber currently enjoy a high profile, with increasing political recognition of the positive roles and contribution of the sector.
Publication of the National Ecosystem Report is just one recent example of wider recognition and it is essential that ConFor maximises opportunities surrounding such media interest.
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ConFor at the Royal Welsh Show

The ConFor/WFBP (Wales Forest Business Partnership) marquee will be hosting events throughout Forestry Day on Tuesday 19 July 2011. See programme

Not to be missed are Using home-grown timber at 12 noon, featuring Dainis Dauksta on larch, Doug Hughes on timber in architecture and Alistair Yeomans describing how to use myForest.
This will be followed by the legendary John Clegg & Co sponsored forest food buffet, featuring grey squirrel for the first time!

Finally at 4.30pm will be the opportunity to ask questions of senior FC Wales and Welsh government officers about Glastir, grants, policy and the proposed merger.

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ConFor's South West Woodland Show 09 September 2011 at Longleat

The opening event in the ConFor stand at this year’s show will be an “Any Questions”-style panel discussion at 9.30am, chaired by Sir Henry Studholme, on the theme of the future of forests in England. The other panellists are, Simon Hodgson, chief executive of FC England, Sue Holden, chief executive of The Woodland Trust and ConFor’s Stuart Goodall. Members are asked to submit questions in advance, from which a selection will be made. Help us to make this a lively debate. jane.karthaus@confor.org.uk There are plans to offer breakfast to invited guests beforehand, but sponsors are urgently needed, for this and other opportunities. Please contact jane.karthaus@confor.org.uk
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Congratulations

The following were included in the Queen’s birthday honours:
John Wilding MBE, head forester at Clinton Devon Estates, for services to the environment.
Dr Sophie Churchill OBE, chief executive of The National Forest Company, for services to the environment.
Judith Webb MBE, forestry commissioner, for services to conservation in England and Wales.

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Scotland's Land Reform Act challenged

It was reported recently in the Scottish media that the Land Reform Act is to be challenged by a landowner on the Isle of Skye, where crofters want to take over part of a large estate. A sheriff directed the Court of Session in Edinburgh to decide whether the Scottish Land Reform Act 2003 is consistent with the European Convention on Human Rights.

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Green Investment Bank

Nick Clegg and Vince Cable announced, on 23 May 2011, that the Green Investment Bank would be an ambitious institution that will aim to, "catalyse an additional £15 billion of investment in the green infrastructure”. Nick Clegg stressed that the bank would be an independent organisation with a potential initial remit to focus on offshore wind, waste and non-domestic energy efficiency.

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Forestry Regulation Task Force

Just a reminder that the task force would still like to receive comments up to the end of July. A brief email highlighting your particular gripes/ideas/suggestions is all that is required. www.forestry.gov.uk/regulationtaskforce

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Lyme disease

Another reminder that with ticks active again, anyone going out and about in the countryside should think about protecting themselves. The consequences of Lyme disease can be very unpleasant and serious. Read more..

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Forest Industries Education and Provident Fund

The annual report and accounts for the Forest Industries Education and Provident Fund for the year ended 31 December 2010 is available from jane.karthaus@confor.org.uk

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Government NO to Sherwood Forest Waste Incinerator

2011-05-27T13:39:00.000+01:00

Pickles rejects Sherwood Forest incinerator

Following a public inquiry, the Secretary of State Eric Pickles has refused planning permission for Veolia’s proposed 180,000 tonne waste incinerator in Rainworth, Nottinghamshire. The public inquiry, which was presided over by Inspector Rupert Grantham, opened in October 2009 and was adjourned twice at the request of Veolia to allow them time to submit further evidence.

The greenfield site, owned by UK Coal and subject to a planning condition requiring restoration to heathland and woodland, is in the heart of Sherwood Forest, and is used by rare and protected bird species such as woodlark and nightjar.

Local campaign group People Against Incineration (PAIN) were joined by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and Newark & Sherwood District Council in opposing the application at the public inquiry. There was also a community evening where local residents voiced their opposition to the incinerator.

In the Planning Inspector’s view: “...Veolia have failed to show use of the Rufford facility would not prejudice further movement up the waste hierarchy...Recognition that the site is not previously developed land would have ruled it out at an early stage in the site selection process. I have also identified significant shortcomings in the subsequent assessment of this and other shortlisted sites. To my mind, the appraisal of alternative sites has not been robust”.

PAIN’s Chairman, Bernard Thompson, said: “This is a happy day for the people of Rainworth, and for all who care about Sherwood Forest. I would like to thank everyone involved. Local support remained solid over many years of campaigning. We have utmost respect for the Planning Inspector, Mr Rupert Grantham, who treated all parties fairly and arrived at the right conclusion.”

Shlomo Dowen, who gave evidence on behalf of PAIN at the inquiry, said: “It is unfortunate that Veolia and Nottinghamshire County Council have squandered so much time and public money on this misadventure. Now that this distraction is over PAIN looks forward to working with our County Council to ensure that Nottinghamshire’s ever-decreasing quantity of waste is managed sustainably.”

Newark & Sherwood District Councillor Linda Tift said: “I am overjoyed to hear that this beloved site will be protected from development. The site is clearly important to nature conservation and is surrounded by Sites of Special Scientific Interest. I hope that UK Coal will now honour their promise to return the site to heathland so that the community’s vision for the area to be restored and included in a Sherwood Forest Regional Park can be realised.”

Save Our Forests: England's Forestry Consultation: Time to add your voice

2011-05-19T14:33:00.000+01:00

Be the voice for woods and trees

	Its time for your say on the future of Englands forests In February you played a valuable part in helping to bring about a government u-turn around proposed plans for the disposal of our publicly owned forests in England. As the next stages unfold, we are calling for your support again. Following the collapse of the consultation earlier this year, an Independent Panel was set up to look not just at the future of public forests but nearly every aspect of forests in England. I was invited to be a part of that panel and it is now time for the panel to talk directly to you. Please take this opportunity to be a key player in helping shape future recommendations for our forests, by giving the panel a full and rounded understanding of what it is about forests and woods that you value so much and why. There will be different opportunities to get involved over the coming months - if youd like to be kept in touch by the Woodland Trust on developments as they arise please let us know. When the Government halted the consultation the Woodland Trust said that the fight wasn't over for the future of our forests. Please do not stop being the voice for your woods and trees, they need you to speak for them today! With warmest wishes, Sue Holden Chief Executive Woodland Trust

British Forestry Industry: News from Confor May 2011

2011-05-18T07:59:00.000+01:00

Welcome...
..once again to this latest issue of ConFor's eNews. We are pleased to welcome new members who have joined since our last issue:
William McGhee, Edinburgh
Kenneth Furling, Essex
Anthony Haighway, Shropshire
Alistair Walton, Cumbria
LC Energy Ltd,Surrey
Cutlers Wood, Germany
Midlands Wood Fuel, Shropshire
Newfuel Ltd, Aberdeenshire
Woodfuel Wales, Powys
Forest Fuels Ltd, Exeter
Haughton Castle, Northumberland
Barnhill Estate, Stirlingshire
English Wood Fuels Ltd, Leicestershire
Cotswold Eco Fuels, Bristol
Staffordshire County Council, Staffordshire
Remember, the eNews is just one part of the ConFor communications package. It is circulated between issues of our industry-leading magazine Forestry and Timber News - now published six times a year. All ConFor members should receive a complimentary copy of FTN. Non-members can subscribe to eNews by sending your details to enews@confor.org.uk and we will add you to our mailing list.

IN THIS ISSUE

Big Changes for Scotland; fine tuning for Wales?

England expert panel

The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Forestry:engaging Wesminster in forestry issues

Forest industries showcased

Phytophthora ramorum update

Official visits to Glennon Brothers plant in Troon

ConFor consultation responses

UKWAS draft revision

NI draft Forestry Act

Big Changes for Scotland; fine tuning for Wales?

The elections for the Scottish Parliament and the Welsh Assembly took place on 05 May 2011 with differing outcomes for each new government. Read more..

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England expert panel
ConFor’s chief executive Stuart Goodall is one of 12 people appointed by the Secretary of State, Caroline Spelman to an independent panel set up to advise government on the future of forestry in England. Stuart will be emphasising the need to develop policy that supports all England's woodland and which addresses the importance of financial sustainability to forestry management. Read more..
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The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Forestry: engaging Westminster in forestry issues
The All-Party Parliamentary Group on Forestry met on 08 May 2011, in Portcullis House, Westminster. Read more..
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Forest industries showcased
BSW Timber was featured on Landward (BBC2 Scotland’s weekly countryside programme) as part of a ConFor initiative to show-case how the domestic timber industry is now competing with the very best in Europe. ConFor’s chief executive was interviewed, putting the case for expanding the commercial softwood forest area. Read more..
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Phytophthora ramorum update

With aerial surveys having resumed (working upwards and eastwards from south-west England) there should soon be an insight into the latest spread of P ramorum infection. A revised strategy for combating the infection is being developed and ConFor has been raising awareness of the real danger to businesses in the sector. Read more..
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Official visits to Glennon Brothers plant in Troon
Scotland and Ireland-based timber processing firm, Glennon Brothers, welcomed Labour MSP for Strathkelvin and Bearsden, David Whitton, as part of a visit organised by ConFor, to its Adam Wilson & Sons sawmill plant in Troon, followed just a day later by a visit from Consul General of Ireland to Scotland, Susan Conlon.
The visit was one of a number of events organised by ConFor for politicians from all parties in Scotland ahead of the election to expose them to the sector and to discuss the key issues facing forestry and wood businesses.
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ConFor consultation responses

Thank you to all those who contributed to recent ConFor submissions:
Forestry Regulation Task Force. The final response is at
www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents
Management of health and safety in forestry. The final response is at www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents
The plant protection products regulations 2011. The final response is at www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents

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UKWAS draft revision
Final call for comments by 31 May 2011 http://www.ukwas.org.uk/standard/revision/index.html

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NI draft Forestry Act

The consultation documents and copies of the draft felling Regulations and the Forestry Act (Northern Ireland) 2010 are available at www.dardni.gov.uk/forestservice The consultation runs from 24 March 2011 to 23 June 2011. The new Forestry Act is inextricably linked to the forestry strategy, articulated in ‘Northern Ireland – A strategy for sustainability and growth’ (March 2006), which is built around:
The sustainable management of existing woods and forests;
A steady expansion of tree cover to increase the many diverse benefits that forests provide.

Direct responses to jan.davidson@dardni.gov.uk
To contribute to ConFor’s response, please send to jane.karthaus@confor.org.uk

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The Wood Awards 2011
Now in its ninth year, The Wood Awards is the UK’s premier architecture and furniture competition celebrating excellence in design in the world’s most sustainable material. Deadline 27 May 2011. www.woodawards.com

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EWGS grants update
FCE issued an email alert on 28 April 2011, with news on Woodland Creation Grant (applications scoring 10 points or more, or three in East England, will be accepted until the budget is fully committed) Woodfuel Woodland Improvement Grant and grant calculator. http://www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-6myjjh

There are also new grants in Yorkshire & Humber for woodland creation in designated areas for flood mitigation purposes.
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SRDP changes

View your Rural Priorities case file on-line
Are you applying for Rural Priorities funding? If so, you can now upload and view documents relating to your case file on-line.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=340

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RHI event
Shortly after the launch of the Renewable Heat Incentive details in March 2011, an informative event was held, jointly supported by ConFor, NFU, CLA and FC. Video recordings of the presentations are at http://heartwoods.reach22.com/
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Vacancies

The Royal Scottish Forestry Society is looking for a new editor for Scottish Forestry http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Jobs.aspx?pid=31&id=851

Forest Fuels is looking for a timber-buying manager http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Jobs.aspx?pid=31&id=850

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ConFor Events

ConFor at the Devon County Show, 19-21 May 2011

ConFor Marches regional AGM, 27 May 2011, at the main FC office, Birches Valley, with a short tour looking at treatment of red band needle blight and heathland restoration issues, then on to Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.

West Midlands Forestry Forum, 29 June 2011, at Burwarton Estate. Theme: Majoring on the International Year for Forestry; an estate visit with a series of illustrated talks highlighting the important contribution that trees & woodland make to the economy whilst providing considerable public benefit and contributing to everyone’s quality of life.

ConFor at the Royal Cornwall Show, 09-11 June 2011

ConFor AGM, 19 July 2011, Edinburgh

ConFor at the Royal Welsh Show, Builth Wells, 18-21 July 2011 www.rwas.co.uk

ConFor’s South West Woodland Show, Longleat, Wiltshire, 09 September 2011, with Forest programme woodfuel site visits on 08 September 2011. www.southwestwoodlandshow.org.uk

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Other Events
www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents

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Special Trees of Sherwood Walks May 2011

2011-05-01T16:19:00.002+01:00

Saturday 14th May 10-30am - 1.00

Thynghowe Trail

A gentle Stroll along forestry boundaries and tracks to the Viking Assembly of Thynghowe

Sunday 15 May 10.30am - 1.00pm

King's Wood & St Edwin's Chapel

An easy stroll around the sweet chestnut and oak wood witk owners and foresters Stuart Reddish and Lynda Mallett. Hear the story of centuries of woodland management including medieval deer leaps and ancient coppicing, then visit the site of St Edwin's Chapel.

Booking Details

For further details, contact the Trust on 01623 821490 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 01623 821490 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 01623 821490 end_of_the_skype_highlighting begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 01623 821490

Protect Wildlife and the Countryside - help Stop Climate Change

2011-04-21T09:50:00.002+01:00

The government could be about to scrap laws which protect wildlife and the countryside and help prevent climate change.

Sign the petition in favour of keeping the rules we need to protect our countryside and our planet:

On Monday, it was revealed that the government might scrap vital laws which protect wildlife and the countryside and help stop climate change. Hardliners have branded the rules ‘red tape’ and say they could be scrapped within months. [1]

We need to work together to make sure our wildlife, our countryside and our planet are protected.

In the past, David Cameron has made headlines promising to run "the greenest government ever". [2] We need to convince him that scrapping these laws would be a disaster for his reputation. A huge petition will prove to Cameron that he can't afford to break his green promises.

Please take 30 seconds to speak up for legal protection for wildlife and the environment:
http://www.38degrees.org.uk/dont-scrap-environment-laws

Among the laws under threat are the Climate Change Act and the Wildlife and Countryside Act. These aren’t little-known laws that no one cares about. The Wildlife and Countryside Act protects wild birds, their nests and eggs, and makes sure that national parks and marine reserves are protected. The UK’s Climate Change Act was a world first which helps make sure we reduce our emissions. [3]

We know that when we work together we can make sure the government doesn’t get away with plans which could hurt the environment. When they decided to try to sell off our forests, over half a million of us got together and convinced them to drop their plans. [4]

The government says it is "consulting" before scrapping these laws - so let's give them a consultation response they can't ignore! Please help make sure we have a huge petition telling the government to keep laws which protect our wildlife and our environment.

Sign the petition to send a powerful message to David Cameron and the government:
http://www.38degrees.org.uk/dont-scrap-environment-laws

Thanks for being involved,

Hannah, David, Johnny, Charlotte and the 38 Degrees Team

PS: The laws under threat in the government's "red tape challenge" include the Climate Change Act, National Parks Act, Clean Air Act and the Wildlife and Countryside Act. Do these sound like "red tape" to you? Please add your name and tell the government that protecting our countryside and our planet should be a priority: http://www.38degrees.org.uk/dont-scrap-environment-laws

NOTES
[1] Guardian: http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2011/apr/17/environment-green-laws-red-tape
[2] Daily Mail: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1368328/Im-determined-make-Coalition-Britains-greenest-government-Cameron-uses-YouTube-promote-Earth-Hour.html
Friends of the Earth: http://www.foe.co.uk/resource/press_releases/cameron_backs_new_climate_01092006.html
[3] Guardian: http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2011/apr/17/environment-green-laws-red-tape
[4] 38 Degrees - “Victory! Government to scrap plans to sell our forests” http://blog.38degrees.org.uk/2011/02/17/victory-government-to-scrap-plans-to-sell-our-forests/

Anglo Saxon Link to Viking Thynghowe Assembly Sherwood Forest

2011-04-12T16:24:00.000+01:00

Surveying on Thynghowe Photo Lynda Mallett

Four years ago it was revealed that a rare Viking meeting place – a Thynghowe – had been re-discovered in Sherwood Forest, England. Since then, efforts have been stepped up to unravel its past and gradually one of Nottinghamshire’s most mysterious ancient monuments is yielding its secrets.

Read more >> http://www.pasthorizons.com/index.php/archives/04/2011/reciting-anglo-saxon-passages-on-the-mound-of-thynghowe#ixzz1JK3R1b2b
Read the Archaeology News - then buy the Trowel at Past Horizons Tools

Thynghowe & Birklands BBC Radio 4 April 2011

2011-04-09T07:08:00.000+01:00

Visit the BBC Radio 4 website to hear the programme on Thynghowe and Sherwood Forest.

LINK TO BBC OPEN COUNTRY PROGRAMME

Time Team in Sherwood Forest

2011-04-08T15:57:00.000+01:00

Channel 4 TV Time Team have just finished recording in Sherwood Forest. Using King John's Palace and nearby woodland they are telling the story of a medieval Deer Park.

Nottingham University Archeaologist's check the finds

Thynghowe & Birklands BBC Radio 4 April 9th 2011

2011-04-01T12:19:00.001+01:00

For this week's Open Country, Richard Uridge is in the Birklands area of Sherwood Forest finding out about its ancient past when he visits Thynghowe, an ancient open-air meeting place where hundreds of Vikings gathered to make important decisions.
Presenter: Richard Uridge
Producer: Helen Chetwynd.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0103z1x

Landscape Visions For Sherwood

2011-03-07T04:01:00.000Z

Cultural Heritage in Changing Landscapes
Open publication - Free publishing

International Year of the Forest United Kingdom

2011-03-04T14:11:00.001Z

The UN General Assembly declared 2011 the International Year of Forests to raise awareness on sustainable management, conservation and sustainable development of forests. The International Year of Forests was officially launched on 2 February 2011 at the UN headquarters in New York, USA, during the UN Forum on Forests. Events will be held globally throughout 2011 showcasing actions towards managing the world's forests sustainably.
The UN has a website dedicated to Forest 2011, where you will find information regarding events being organised throughout the year, as well as interactive web tools and resources to promote dialogue on forests. Participants can also tell organizers via the website how they plan to celebrate “forests for people” during 2011, so that they may showcase their stories and initiatives through this website.

Please use the links below to obtain more information on buying wood products, local events and international events.

United Nations

Forestry Commission

Forest Stewardship Council United Kingdom

Local District Council Report on the Sherwood Forest Area March 2010

2011-03-03T18:49:00.000Z

Local District Council Report on the Sherwood Forest Area March 2010

Newark and Sherwood Publication Core Strategy - Assessment under the Habitats Regulations

1.2 BACKGROUND
(PPS12) highlights the need for Core Strategies to handle contingencies. It was therefore felt appropriate to look at the risks to the Core Strategy of a new European site being identified in the District over the course of the lifetime of the Core Strategy. Appendix C does that.
1.2.1 Natura 2000 is the European Union-wide network of protected areas, recognised as ‘sites of Community importance’ under the EC Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora). These sites, which are also referred to as European sites, consist of Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and Offshore Marine Site (OMS).
1.2.2 In addition to the above, sites designated under the Ramsar Convention (known as Ramsar sites) also
receive the same degree of protection under Planning Policy Statement 9 (PPS9) (ODPM, 2005) as a matter of planning policy. SPAs and SACs are known as European sites and are part of the Natura 2000 network and all three types of site are also referred to as International sites.
1.2.3 The purpose of Appropriate Assessment (AA) of land use plans is to ensure that protection of the integrity of European sites is a part of the planning process at a regional and local level.
1.2.4 AA of plans and projects is required by Articles 6(3) and 6(4) of the European Habitats Directive:
“6(3) Any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of the site but likely to
have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be
subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site’s conservation objectives.
In the light of the conclusions of the assessment of the implications for the site and subject to the provisions
of paragraph 4, the competent national authorities shall agree to the plan or project only after having
ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of the site concerned and, if appropriate, after having
obtained the opinion of the general public”

http://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/ppimageupload/holding/Image95145.PDF

www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk

Sherwood Landscape Characterisation Document

2011-03-02T19:24:00.000Z

England's rural landscape is one of the jewels of our national heritage. It is too easily overlooked when we concentrate on individual buildings or archaeological monuments, and its historic dimension can be too easily missed if landscape is admired as beautiful scenery.

Have a read of the recently published Newark and Sherwood District Council Landscape Characterisation Document by clicking on the link here http://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/ppimageupload/Image92149.PDF

Historic Landscape Characterisation

2011-03-02T17:35:00.000Z

http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/publications/conservation-bulletin/

English Heritage: Characterisation helps to manage change in the historic environment by tracing the imprint of history. Piecing together information from maps new and historic, from aerial photos, and from the wealth of data that we already have about archaeology and buildings, it builds up area-based pictures of how places in town and country have developed over time. It shows how the past exists within today's world.
Click on the link below the magazine image to download a copy on Characterisation.

USING HISTORIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTERISATION.
The Nature of Geomorphology: Landscape Characterisation and Change
The Cumbria Historic Landscape Characterisation Project: The Lake District National Park

Discovering Viking Archaeology in Sherwood Forest

2011-02-22T20:58:00.000Z

Archaeologists have spent the week of 17 - 22 January 2011 investigating the area of Thynghowe in Sherwood Forest. Nottinghamshire County Council archaeologists have been using GPS and Total Station surveying techniques. Archaeologists from University College London Assembly Sites Project were using magnetometry equipment to investigate the site. A 'Thyng' (things, dings, tings etc) is a Viking assembly or meeting place, where they met to resolve disputes and make the law. A 'howe' could indicate a prehistoric burial mound. This site demonstrates the possibility of many sites that may lie undiscovered in our historic and ancient forests and woodlands. Thynghowe lay beneath forestry plantation until rediscovered by myself and wife five years ago. It is not much to look at but its past reflects hundreds, if not thousands of years, of use for public assembly by the people of the 'shire' - there is evidence to suggest that 'Sherwood' comes from the original word 'Shirewood' and would have reflected the presence of an Anglo Saxon shire moot. This would have predated the Viking Thynghowe site. These assembly sites had to provide good acoustics for the open air meeting and also enough grazing pasture for horses and water for the many hundreds of people who would have attend a shire moot.

Make Sherwood Forest a 'Heritage Forest'

2011-02-22T16:26:00.000Z

I welcome the Environment Secretary Caroline Spelman's admission that the government had "got this one wrong" but we must not take our eye of the ball. Safeguarding the 'cultural heritage and archaeology' contained within our local woodlands will still need to be part of any future discussions about forestry management.
Whilst access and biodiversity have been recognised as issues, the archaeology and cultural heritage of our forests seem to have been marginalised.

The debate on the Forestry Commission management of our ancient forests and woodland will still go on but the position in England is that we have possibly the highest concentration in the world of unresearched or under researched historic woodland sites.

Here in Nottinghamshire we have been actively involved with the Forestry Commission for a number of years working on the archaeology contained within Sherwood Forest. As a royal hunting forest Sherwood Forest was 20 miles long and ten miles wide. This geographic area was and is being considered as a regional park.

All Forestry Commission owned and managed woodlands in the Nottinghamshire area are therefore vital to a cohesive forestry facility. This forestry underpins the tourist industry of the area and the overall global appeal of Nottinghamshire. We must be vigilant and ensure the whole of the Sherwood Forest area becomes a designated 'Heritage Forest'.

Forest sale axed: Caroline Spelman says 'I'm sorry'

2011-02-17T16:14:00.000Z

There is still much to do and be involved with to get and maintain the woodlands we deserve - so - now it is up to all of us to get involved locally with projects and volunteering - check this out for the latest news

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-12488847

Forest sell-off consultation to be scrapped

2011-02-17T01:42:00.001Z

A new panel of advisors to be convened to decide on forest and woodland managment. The matters of cultural heritage and archaeology in our forests and woodlands is still to be addressed.
Cameron Unhappy with Forest sell-off Plans

Forest Sell-Off: Protect our Cultural Heritage and Archaeology

2011-02-15T13:37:00.000Z

There are now many reports on the issues surrounding the government sell-off our forests. The main issues seem to be the concerns of public access and maintaining biodiversity within a mono-culture plantation system. However, there does not seem to be the same level of concern about the amount of cultural heritage and archaeology contained within our ancient forests and woodlands.

The above topic seems, at present, to have been marginalised in the debate on the FC management of our ancient forests and woodland. I am just flagging this up as the position in England is that we have possibly the highest concentration in the world of unresearched or under researched woodland sites. I have been actively involved with the FC for a number of years working on the archaeology contained within Sherwood Forest. I am sure commercial forestry would not see the preservation or conservation of heritage sites within their woodland as high priority. Also, to think that any level of local authority is capable of becoming involved with woodland management in the current financial climate is a mistake.

Local authorities here in Nottinghamshire are slashing staff and services and are not looking for new areas of responsibility. Local authorities would probably like to give away their parks and gardens as well because they have already sacked the rangers that managed them. The Woodland Trust has been looking for people to lease woodlands as they are not able to resource all the extended responsibilities, funding has been cut from the Community Forests and small woodlands have been chopped up to create 2 and 3 acre woodland gardens just to promote sales.

I am all for public involvement and social forestry but to expect the untrained and unsupported public to pick up the responsibilities of woodland management is unrealistic.

Forest Sell-off It is not over yet!

2011-02-12T12:57:00.000Z

Breaking news! The government have announced they will pause forest sell-offs for a few months. It's a brilliant sign, but our forests are still in danger. If we keep working together, we can save our forests forever - not just for a few months.

The government is still going full steam ahead with changing the law to clear the way for a 100% sell-off. It looks like they hope the fuss will die down if they pause a few sales here and there - so they can press on with quietly scrapping legal protection for our public woodlands.

Our petition is now 490,000 strong. Let's show the government we will keep campaigning until English forests are safe, by making sure the petition passes half a million signatures today.

Please forward this email and ask your friends to sign:
http://www.38degrees.org.uk/save-our-forests

Picture yourself in the last forest you visited. Remember how you felt, what you saw, how peaceful it was. Now imagine hearing that this beautiful place has been auctioned off. We just can't let it happen!

By working together, bit by bit, we are protecting our woodlands for future generations. Since 38 Degrees members voted to launch this campaign, we've spread the word, emailed our MPs, and chipped in to pay for opinion polls and adverts. It’s starting to work - today is a time to celebrate. But we also need to keep the pressure building.

Please forward this email and ask your friends to help get our petition past half a million signatures today:
http://www.38degrees.org.uk/save-our-forests

Let's keep going!

David, Johnny, Hannah and the 38 Degrees team

PS:
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The Fate of Sherwood Forest

2011-02-11T17:58:00.001Z

We read in the Chad this week that Mark Spencer MP for Sherwood had been given 'assurances' that 'Sherwood Forest' would not be sold off as it is not managed by the Forestry Commission.

This is misleading as 'Sherwood Forest' is much much larger than just the Country Park that is managed by Nottinghamshire County Council which I believe he may have been referring to.

The forest next to it is Birklands and is part of Sherwood Forest too. It is right next to Bilhagh (the Country Park). This area of the forest is managed by the Forestry Commission for the three estates of Fitzherbert, Thoresby, and Welbeck. In this area is what is probably the most important archaeological site in the whole of Sherwood Forest, Thynghowe. Birklands was probably part of the Northumbrian Mercian border. Thynghowe was a Viking assembly site, before that a Saxon Moot and is sited on possibly a Bronze Age burial mound. It has recently come to international attention by attendance of The Friends of Thynghowe at conferences for the Thing sites of Northern Europe. www.thynghowe.org.uk

This puts this area of Birklands which is managed by the Forestry Commission at the heart of Sherwood Forest, a significant place that has been used for thousands of years. If the Forestry Commission were forced to give up their management of Birklands and sell the contract to a private company we could lose the access and amenity of this historic site. It could be used for less sensitive commercial forestry and some of the important archaeological evidence still to be discovered could be destroyed .

We are concerned that if people in government think that Sherwood Forest as just being the Country Park, many areas of the real Sherwood Forest, those of outstanding ecological value and significant cultural heritage, will be lost because of a lack of understanding for what the whole of Sherwood Forest consists of.

Sherwood Forest is not just the Country Park of 440 acres of woodland leased from the Thorseby Estate by Nottinghamshire County Council. It is much, much larger than that and part of our collective national heritage.

The woodland areas of Sherwood Pines, Thieves Wood, Wellow Wood, Silverhill Wood, and Blidworth Wood are all in the bounds of Sherwood Forest and could all be sold off.

The Forest of Dean, and the New Forest contain many woodlands, villages and open heathland pasture as does Sherwood Forest. As a royal hunting forest Sherwood Forest was 20 miles long and ten miles wide. This geographic area was and is being considered as a regional park. All Forestry Commission owned and managed woodlands in the Nottinghamshire area are therefore vital to a cohesive forestry facility. This forestry underpins the tourist industry of the area and the overall global appeal of Nottinghamshire.

The Nottinghamshire County Council has already sidelined the visitor centre for the Sherwood Forest Country Park. The NCC has also indicated that most of the rangers will be made redundant. The combined effect, along with Forestry Commission redundancies, could make all the hard work and money spent over the last 30 years a complete waste of time. We could be close to losing something far bigger than the local MP for Sherwood realises.

See also 'Is Sherwood Forest Targetted for DEFRA sell-off'

http://sherwoodforest.info

Save Our Forests - How Did Your MP Vote?

2011-02-09T09:19:00.000Z

Save Our Forests - How Did Your MP Vote?

http://www.38degrees.org.uk/page/content/forest_vote_table/

Forests sell-off not done deal, says Caroline Spelman

2011-02-06T18:00:00.000Z

Latest News
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-12377215

Government urged to rethink forest sell off plan

2011-02-06T12:57:00.000Z

Watch the debate here
http://news.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/hi/house_of_commons/newsid_9385000/9385055.stm

Books on Woodland and the Countryside

2011-02-06T12:34:00.000Z

An acknowledged authority on the British countryside, especially trees, woodlands and wood pasture, Rackham has written a number of well-known books, including The History of the Countryside (1986) and one on Hatfield Forest. He has also studied and published extensively on the ecology of Crete, Greece.
In 1998 he was awarded the OBE for "services to Nature Conservation".^[1] In 2006 he was appointed Honorary Professor of Historical Ecology in the Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge.

Forest Sell Off Could Cost Taxpayer

2011-02-02T08:43:00.000Z

Check these out - there is a debate today - tell your MP we do not want our forests and woodlands sold off:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/earthnews/8296959/Forest-sell-off-could-cost-taxpayer.html

http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/nature/official-englands-forest-selloff-will-cost-more-than-it-saves-2201501.html

Forestry Commission England sales - media coverage in January 2011

2011-01-31T18:50:00.000Z

During January, ahead of the consultation process, various campaigns opposing the government plans to sell England’s state woodlands achieved widespread media coverage. Here is a sample:

31 January

The Daily Telegraph – MPs revolt, Commons debate Wednesday http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/earthnews/8291358/Pressure-mounts-over-forest-sell-off.html

30 January

Sunday Telegraph - Higher level access http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/agriculture/forestry/8290822/Cyclists-and-riders-may-lose-access-to-woodland.html

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/comment/letters/8289599/The-nations-trees-have-been-poorly-managed-by-the-state.html

The Observer - Monty Don on woodlands http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jan/30/monty-don-woodland-coppice-sustainable

Melvyn Bragg http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jan/30/melvyn-bragg-lake-district-protests

Sunday Independent - http://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/commentators/paul-vallely-stealing-the-common-off-the-goose-2198378.html

Mail on Sunday - Forestry as an investment http://www.dailymail.co.uk/money/article-1351770/Investors-money-really-does-grow-trees.html?ito=feeds-newsxml

Sunday Times – brief report of the debate in the news review section; full page article in the news section “The forest fightback” – National Trust and growing opposition; leader “We want tree huggers not tree muggers”; article by Ed Miliband “Selling England’s forests tears at our hearts of oak”; letter proposing a fund to buy all the land – 50,000 people each pay £10k.

29 January

The Times, 2 letters and an article: FC has an ecologist who looks after Thetford – how could the private sector do that?; Retired forester asks how you categorise woodlands that are on a continuum, or a complex blend; Article about Lake District heroes rally against forests sell-off.

28 January

The Guardian - ‎Lord Clark http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jan/28/cameron-forests-protests-grizedale

BIKEmagic – higher level access http://www.bikemagic.com/news/campaigns-set-up-to-oppose-forest-sell-off/9706.html

Other:

CLA view http://www.farminguk.com/PopularNews/CLA-backs-forestry-privatisation-with-caution_19742.html

National Trust view: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5gQ1mdXxPDFaopmmVwzG5u3nYZGwQ?docId=N0426871296271564269A

Higher level access http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/397/305295.html

27 January:

Television/Radio:

Stuart Goodall live Sky News interview, following item on Newsnight last night iplayer at 26.00 minutes.
Guy Warren of Tilhill was on Breakfast TV.
Tim Kirk did pieces for Hereford and Worcester radio and for Shropshire radio.
BBC - Debate between minister Jim Paice, Lord Clarke, ex-Chairman of FC on Radio 4’s PM programme. It’s at 35 mins in: http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00xpllw/PM_27_01_2011/

Newspapers:

The Telegraph – very short report, Threatened woodland needs better protection, for PAWS says Woodland Trust.

Higher level access http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/agriculture/forestry/8290822/Cyclists-and-riders-may-lose-access-to-woodland.html

The Daily Mail has a double-page spread on P ramorum and Acute Oak Decline (Chainsaw massacre).

The Times - Short news piece ‘Fears for public woodland sell-off’, flagging up leases etc.

Secretary of State Caroline Spelman has ½ page in opinion page: I promise, I can see the wood for the trees – We are not selling off the New Forest. We are protecting access. Don’t believe all you read.

Beneath that is Matthew Parris (hon. fellow of ICF and regular Times columnist), Forest grumps – referring to misinformation. He suggests that the debate is populated by alarmists and vested interests and that all sides need to step back and recognise that some of the many public benefits may pull in different directions.

Also, one letter from Linda Whetstone (Commissioner in the ‘80s), supporting Matt Ridley’s opinion for selling.

The Guardian - ‎Lord Bragg, has given his support to the growing campaign to prevent the government sell-off http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jan/30/melvyn-bragg-lake-district-protests

Daily Mirror – Woods sale plan ‘is just vandalism’. New Forest etc will be gated and public shut out.

Daily Express has a page opposite the leaders, by Clive Aslet, editor of Country Life, Save our ancient forests – a proposal to sell off Britain’s forests has caused alarm but is preserving woodland always incompatible with commerce? Fairly balanced report (not 100% accurate), suggesting a different solution for different types of forest and perhaps the government should not own trees and run a business. Woodland Trust should vet any woodland before it is sold.

The Independent, p26 small piece, Lib Dems threaten rebellion over forests sale; a few bits about what Caroline Spelman is (was) going to say.

Letter asking for conditions to protect wildlife in any sales, from League Against Cruel Sports, RSPCA, Care for the Wild, Mammal Society and other charities.

Letter saying that in Ireland, Chinese and Swiss have shown interest in buying Coillte – that’s what would happen here. From Celt Centre for Environmental Living and Training.

Letter from Edinburgh – the £100m proceeds equals the monthly subsidy to windfarms. Keep our forests and cut the windfarms.

Financial Times –can’t see anything on their website.

The Sun – nothing.

Daily Star – no mention.

Other:

UK News - Includes quote from fountains http://uk.news.yahoo.com/22/20110127/tuk-uk-britain-forests-fa6b408.html

Press Association – Rally in the Lake District http://www.google.com/hostednews/ukpress/article/ALeqM5iFCGtKN4rMqt8tTILzUnyr-uek6g?docId=N0437461296345998559A

25 January:

The Guardian – The state has no business being a lumberjack.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/cif-green/2011/jan/24/forestry-commission-nationalising-commercial-breakup

Outdoors – Protest rally at Grizedale

http://www.outdoorsmagic.com/outdoors-news/forestry-sell-off-protest-planned/7804.html

24 January:

C4 – a ‘romantic’ view of forestry

http://www.channel4.com/news/forest-campaigners-fear-government-sale

The Times – two items

News item: Charities will be given priority over cash in woodland sales, government amending policy after being "stung" by the level of criticism - the consultation announcement to be on Thursday.

Matt Ridley (occasional columnist) said selling off FC would be good. He describes it as officious, an anachronism and inefficient.

The Daily Telegraph – Protection for ancient woodland

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/earth/earthnews/8277004/Ancient-woodland-under-threat.html

23 January:

BBC– TV news coverage

10:47 in

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00xzrbv/BBC_Weekend_News_23_01_2011/

22 January:

BBC Radio – Today programme interviews Chair of Westminster Rural Affairs committee

1:34:00 in

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/b00xnync/Today_22_01_2011/

Earlier January coverage:

The Observer editorial on 16th January with link to comment by Andy Wightman: http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/jan/16/forests

The Sunday Times also had a piece about recent FCE sales, with examples of what has happened to public access in some of those.

The Times, in the middle of January, has had letters from Barbara Bloom (ex Commissioner) and David Foot (ex FC), among others on the need to retain FCE.

Note: The Times/Sunday Times are subscription online titles.

The Guardian speculates on FCE sales, this time about tax - 13th January: http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jan/13/english-forests-lost-tax-revenues

Local paper on the New Forest - 13th January: http://www.dailyecho.co.uk/news/8786793.___Save_New_Forest_from_budget_deficit_sell_off___/

Comment in The Independent 7th January: http://www.independent.co.uk/opinion/commentators/johann-hari/johann-hari-for-sale--camerons-green-credentials-2177929.html

The Guardian letters on 6th January, included a response from Jim Paice: http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jan/06/forestry-commission-sale-protests

The Guardian commented on 5th January that the Minister was responding to: http://www.guardian.co.uk/commentisfree/2011/jan/05/forestry-commission-sale-protest-laura-barton

The Guardian 3rd January on Forest of Dean rally: http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jan/03/forest-of-dean-protesters-woodland

BBC coverage of Forest of Dean rally: http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/gloucestershire/hi/front_page/newsid_9336000/9336394.stm

Example of online content: http://theenergycollective.com/vickyportwain/49242/government-sell-english-forests-quick-buck

Safeguarding the cultural heritage and archaeology contained within our woodlands.

2011-01-29T10:09:00.000Z

Safeguarding the cultural heritage and archaeology contained within our woodlands.

The above topic seems, at present, to have been marginalised in the debate on the FC management of our ancient forests and woodland. The position in England is that we have possibly the highest concentration in the world of unresearched or under researched woodland sites. We have been actively involved with the FC for a number of years working on the archaeology contained within Sherwood Forest. We are sure commercial forestry would not see the preservation or conservation of heritage sites within their woodland as high priority. Also, to think that any level of local authority is capable of becoming involved with woodland management in the current financial climate is a mistake. Local authorities here in Nottinghamshire are slashing staff and services and are not looking for new areas of responsibility. Local authorities would probably like to give away their parks and gardens as well because they have already sacked the rangers that managed them. The Woodland Trust has been looking for people to lease woodlands as they are not able to resource all the extended responsibilities, funding has been cut from the Community Forests and small woodlands have been chopped up to create 2 and 3 acre woodland gardens just to promote sales. We support public involvement and social forestry but to expect the untrained and unsupported public to pick up the responsibilities of woodland management is unrealistic. We quickly need a fully funded mentor scheme to help new woodland owners and volunteers to gain confidence in their day to day decision as we will be overwhelmed by new volunteers wanting support and advice.

Have your say by visiting these sites:
The consultation will run for 12 weeks until 21st April 2011. This consultation is about the future ownership and management of the public forest estate in England – land managed by the Forestry Commission on behalf of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. You can see the consultation document on the FC website www.forestry.gov.uk/england-pfeconsultation or www.defra.gov.uk/corporate/consult/forests/index.htm.
Or, you can request a hard copy by contacting them below.
How to respond You can either respond to this survey online or by completing a hard copy of the consultation and posting it back to them.
Online – visit our website at www.forestry.gov.uk/england-pfeconsultation and follow the link to the online consultation. Hard copy – download a copy of the full consultation document from our website, print off and complete the relevant section(s) and post it back to us.
Or Call 0845 3673787 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0845 3673787 end_of_the_skype_highlighting to request a hard copy which you can complete and return -have any questions please contact 0845 3673787 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 0845 3673787 end_of_the_skype_highlighting or via publicconsultation@forestry.gsi.gov.uk