Dumfries and Borders · cultural differences east and west of the watershed along the Dumfries and...
Transcript of Dumfries and Borders · cultural differences east and west of the watershed along the Dumfries and...
St rategic P lan
Dumfries and BordersForest District
Strategic Plan 2009-2013
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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
Contents
2 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Strategic plan 2009-2013
Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Introduction
3 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Introduction
Woodlands can improve heal th ier l i fes ty les and br ing a boost o f urban development across Scot land
This strategic plan will also provide
direction for implementing a repositioning
policy that will ensure that the nature and
distribution of the national forest estate
better reflects its role and purpose.
This plan has been amended to reflect the
feedback from a formal consultation process
during 2008. The summarised consultation
responses and the Forest Enterprise
Scotland response are both available on the
Forestry Commission Scotland website.
Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Introduction
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.
4 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
The strategic plan is divided into three sections:Section one: strategic context
This section explains how this strategic plan relates
to other Forestry Commission Scotland policies
and strategies, taking a lead from the Scottish
Forestry Strategy and the strategic plan for the
national forest estate.
Section two: how Dumfries and Borders Forest District contributes to delivery of the Scottish Forestry Strategy
This section describes the context and specific
actions that will be undertaken on the national
forest estate in the district under each of the seven
themes of the Scottish Forestry Strategy:
• climate change
• business development
• timber
• community development
• access and health
• environmental quality
• biodiversity
Section three: delivery and monitoring
This section gives an overview of how Dumfries
and Borders Forest District will effectively and
efficiently deliver the strategic plan. It includes
sections on:
• the operating principles that underpin
all Forest Enterprise Scotland policies,
operations and activities
• delivery mechanisms, including
repositioning the national forest estate
• the monitoring and implementation process
Impact on environment and equality
The results of environment and equality and
diversity impact assessments of the strategic
plan are available on the Forestry Commission
Scotland website.
Review
A review will take place towards the end of the
period of delivery of the plan. If significant changes
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.
Introduction
5 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Dumfries and Borders Forest District covers some
57,000 ha of the national forest estate in the south-
east of Scotland. It was set up on April 2009 as
a result of the amalgamation of Ae and Scottish
Borders forest districts. Maps of the district and
the forest blocks are given in Appendix one.
The district can be divided broadly into four areas:
coastal zone (8,500 ha) – the lowland
areas adjacent to the Solway Firth
Tweed valley (8,300 ha) – around Peebles
upland zone of forests and open hills
west of the watershed (23,000
ha) - wetter and windier
east of the watershed (17,200
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.
Natural environment
Climate
There is a marked difference in the climate
from west to east in the district. In the west, the
influence of the Gulf Stream is stronger bringing
a mild and wet maritime climate. The east it is
generally a bit drier, colder in the winter, but less
windy. Windiness is a major factor in limiting
management options such as the ability to thin
crops, practice alternative silvicultural methods
and extend rotations to allow restructure to be
effective. There is significant variation in windiness
across the district from the sheltered forests of
the Tweed valley to the more exposed forests
of the upland areas, particularly to the west.
Introduction
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
6 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Water
More than half the district lies in the catchments
of rivers flowing into the upper Solway Firth tidal
flats. The majority of the forests to the east lie in
the Tweed catchment and the remaining areas to
the north west drain into the Clyde. A map of water
catchments in the district is given in Appendix one.
Many of these rivers are important fishing and
breeding grounds for salmon and sea trout, and
are significant in the local economy. A number
of the towns, particularly those built around
water-powered mills, are prone to flooding, and
the quantity as well as the quality of the water
is becoming and increasingly important issue.
Acidification
In some areas, the type of geology (acidic base
rock with soils of limited buffering capacity) and
coniferous plantations have been associated
with acidification. The risk is mapped at
10 k2 level with two critical load squares
affecting the district, at Craik and Wauchope.
However, the geology and underlying soils
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.
Geology and landform
The dominant solid geology of the area is
sedimentary Silurian mudstones and shales. In
the west, granite intrusions underlie the hills of
Dalbeattie, Kinharvie, Criffel and Screel, while
elsewhere small igneous intrusions provide useful
seams of harder road stone material. Glaciation
formed the Southern Upland massif with its gently
rounded plateaux, convex summits and deeply
incised gullies and cleuchs. Glacial deposits overlay
the lower valleys and coastal plain followed by
the formation of lowland raised bogs that are now
among the most significant in western Europe
Soils
Underlying geology, glaciations and climate all
influence the formation of soil, resulting in a wide
variety of soils underlying the district’s forests.
The dominant soil types are peaty soils, peaty
gleys and brown earths. Detail soil maps for
over 90% of the district are available to support
management decisions, such as species choice,
ground preparation technique, and fallow period.
Introduction
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
7 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Landscape
The district has a wide spectrum of landscape types:
• coastal forests on raised bogs and
steep sided granite hills
• upland forests on the rolling hills and deeply
incised valleys of the Southern Uplands
• the Tweed forests of the upland river valley
• The district manages forests that lie
in the East Stewartry and the Nith
Estuary national scenic areas.
Biodiversity
The district’s forests spread from the coastal
fringes to the upper slopes of the southern
uplands. There is a significant range of natural
habitats, including woodlands, estuarine raised
bogs, peat mosses and upland heaths, some of
which are designated as sites of special scientific
interest or special areas of conservation. There
is further variation between the areas west of
the watershed between Scottish Borders and
Dumfries and Galloway and those to the east.
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.
Introduction
8 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Cultural environment
Historical context
The historical factors that have shaped the
forests of the district are typical for much of
Scotland. They include deforestation, climate
change, sheep husbandry, and the development
of agriculture resulting in a mixed rural
economy of farmland, forest and moorland.
The early introduction of sheep by monasteries
and the Border warfare of the 15th and 16th
centuries had a significant impact on the
survival or otherwise of native woodland.
Some plantations were established in 17th and
18th centuries, but the main expansion took
place in the early post-war period. These forests
were intimate parts of remote rural communities,
such as the new forest village and foresters’
houses at Ae, and added significantly to the rural
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.
Heritage
Well over 350 heritage features, including 50
scheduled and six listed features, are mapped
and recorded in the district database. The
majority of features relate to medieval or
later agricultural and rural settlements.
Vast networks of drystane dykes from this
period are treated as archaeological features for
operational purposes. Earlier features include
standing stones, hut circles, burial sites, large
defensive works, a Roman road and a Border
tower. Listed structures include surviving
features of the former Waverley railway line.
Heritage interest in the district encompasses
the trees and woodlands themselves,
including ancient, legendary or historic trees
and woods, such as the Glenkinnon oak.
Introduction
9 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Demographics
The district is a predominantly rural area, with
small to medium market towns. Dumfries, with
a population of about 30,000, is the regional
management centre for a number of national
and local organisations and departments.
Hawick, with a population of about 16,000, is
the largest settlement in the Scottish Borders.
The Tweed valley in particular is very accessible
to Edinburgh. The urban population views the
forests mainly as a recreational resource, but there
is a substantial, widely scattered rural population
that also sees them as part of the rural economy.
The population size in the countryside has
hardly changed over the years, with nearly all the
expansion being in the larger market towns, away
from the forests. The population age structure has
changed, with an increasing number of people
retiring to the area and young people leaving
to find work in the cities. There is a projected
reduction in the working population over the
next 10 years and a gradually ageing population.
In social terms, only the area around Upper
Nithsdale has a very low social deprivation
classification, a reflection of its recent industrial
past. There are pockets of deprivation
in many of the towns and villages of the
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.
Introduction
10 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Economy
Employment
Local government, tourism, and the traditional
industries of agriculture, forestry and textiles are
the mainstay of the rural economy of Dumfries and
Galloway and the Scottish Borders. Only tourism is
increasing in terms of turnover and employment.
Across the south-east of Scotland as a whole, there
are an estimated 1,245 full-time equivalent jobs
in forestry-related activities. Many of these are in
rural areas and associated with small businesses
of fewer than 10 people. They include jobs in
the forest, such as planting, felling and forest
management. Employment in the wood processing
industries is greater than in the forest itself, with
at least 2,000 full-time equivalent jobs involved in
the haulage and processing of the district’s timber.
The district employs 83 people directly and
contractors provide a similar number of full-
time equivalent jobs. A further 70 Forestry
Commission Scotland staff working in other
divisions are based in the district. Some 80%
of the timber harvested from the district’s
forests is processed in Dumfries and Galloway,
Northumberland and Cumbria. Processing
capacity in Scottish Borders is very small.
Introduction
11 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
About Dumfries and Borders Forest DistrictTourism
Tourism is the single most important rural
industry in the south-east of Scotland in terms
of turnover and employment. It is the only
sector that is growing annually, by approximately
5% year-on-year. VisitScotland has identified
developments in the forest environment as vital
to the sustainability and growth of tourism.
Tourism is a major objective, and we are
developing and enhancing facilities and staff
resources to handle this growing sector. The
forests provide a large resource for both informal
and formal recreation, and for organised events
such as the Merida cycling event, 7stanes, Dog
Sport Scotland and the Countryside Trails. In
addition to walking, cycling and horse riding, we
also cater for more specialist interests, including
husky training/racing, angling, and motor sport.
This activity generates expenditure and helps
to sustain local jobs directly, such as the café
and bike shops at Glentress, Ae and Mabie,
or indirectly through local shops, catering
and accommodation providers. The key is to
encourage paying visitors into the area to spend
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.
Renewable energy
The recent push to increase the UK’s renewable
energy capacity has led to considerable interest in
biomass and woodfuel and renewable energies.
The biomass electricity generating plant (44
MW) at Stevens Croft, north of Lockerbie,
is now operational and consuming 500,000
tonnes of wood and wood products a year.
It is anticipated that most of the material
will be sourced from forests and short
rotation coppice in a 50 mile radius.
To date, several established windfarms operate
close to the forest boundary. In the national
forest estate, work is beginning on Airtricity’s 164
turbine site at Little Clyde (M74). Scottish Power’s
71 turbine site at Harestanes in the Forest of Ae
has planning approval. Vattenfall has submitted
a proposal for a 14 turbine site at Minch Moor
above the Tweed valley for planning approval.
The national forest estate in the district has been
assessed for future potential for windfarm and
hydro scheme development. Windfarms have the
greater potential in the area although there may
be opportunities for small scale hydro schemes.
Forest resource
Around 20% (173,000 ha) of Scottish Borders and
the part of Dumfries and Galloway in the district
is covered by woodland. Forestry Commission
Scotland manages around 25% (44,900 ha) of these
forest and woodland. The total area of national
forest estate in south-east Scotland is 57,000 ha.
Types of forest and tree species
The pattern of afforestation is typical of Scotland
as a whole, with the earliest Forestry Commission
acquisitions on the lower ground and better soils,
allowing a greater variety of conifer species. As land
availability changed and afforestation techniques
developed, planting moved up the hill onto the
poorer soils and was dominated by Sitka spruce.
Most of the existing forests in the district are on
sites that are land use capability category F6 or
better. Wind is a significant factor in managing the
forests. About 30% of the district is in windthrow
hazard class WHC3 or better, allowing a greater
range of management options and species choice.
A further 30% is WHC4 which is more restricted,
but still allows a range of options where the site
conditions are suitable. A map of land capability
classifications is given in Appendix one.
There are some examples of poor timber quality
from past practices, such as Sitka spruce of
variable straightness and crops, such as lodgepole
pine, from the 1970s and 1980s that are coarse
branched due to suboptimal stocking or poor
species and provenance choice. As a result,
a small proportion of the district is regarded
as economically marginal, but this tends to
occur as localised areas within larger forests.
Around 80% of the forest comprises of spruce,
which is well suited to the growing conditions
of the area and provides a timber suitable for
the markets. The remaining area comprises
larches and pines (14%) and broadleaves (6%).
Productive forestry age
Past policies lead to some rapid periods of
planting resulting in large areas of even aged
forests. Some 43% of the current forests were
established between 1970 and 1989. These
forests are now well into their second rotation
and are being diversified, both in species and
structure, to balance timber production with
other objectives, such as biodiversity and
recreation. Some 26% were established since
1990 and are virtually all second rotation. Only
4% of the forest is more than 60 years old.
Introduction
12 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
About Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Section one
Scot t ish forest r y is help ing to make a susta inable contr ibut ion to Scot land’s economy. Over 40,000 jobs are suppor ted by the forest r y sector in Scot land and the industr y generates around £760 mi l l ion each year.
Section one: strategic context
13 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
• new business developments in renewable energy, including biofuel options ranging from small-scale heating to large power generation (Lockerbie E.ON plant), are all being actively supported and developed. Ongoing developments in relation to renewable energy include Harestanes, Clyde and Minch Moor windfarms.
• annual production for the combined district over the previous period was around 490,000 cubic metres, with around 50,000 cubic metres coming from thinning, although this element varied from year to year. A significant proportion of harvesting contacts (60% of overall sales and 90% of roadside sales) are long-term, allowing customer relations to build. Work continues to provide specific customer requirements, such as log poles, and to develop new ways of working, such as dry weight, end product working, and mixed clearfell and thinning contracts
• we have successfully planned and are now constructing 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, such as at Heads of Valley
• we have delivered improved forest design throughout the district. Work plans have been initiated to identify and formalise management plans at the site level. Although clearfell and re-stocking delays have occurred and windthrow has frequently intervened (notably the 1999 hurricane), we are working to adjust programmes to minimise the adverse effects of these events on our objectives
• a strategic landscape design plan has been prepared for the Tweed valley to bring a unity to forest plans, but at the same time to highlight the distinctiveness of each of the seven forests
Section one: strategic context
ContextThe 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.
Section one
14 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Overall, progress has been made on a wide range of activities, with the following key outcomes:
Section one: strategic context
Section one
15 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
• there is a greater recognition of the potential for alternative to clearfell systems, with a number of areas identified in the more sheltered areas of the district
• work to raise restocking standards is ongoing and achieving target stocking densities is a high priority
• deer populations are generally within acceptable levels to allow the successful establishment of the main timber species. There are some local issues with broadleaves and the ‘soft’ conifers. Containing sika deer to the upper Tweed valley has only been partially successful, with spread continuing to the east. Several different landowners are involved, 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
• we completed phase one restoration of the Solway Mosses lowland in 2003 via the EU LIFE II bid (clearance of 417 ha of timber from the Longbridgemuir raised bog), with ongoing maintenance taking place since. A further expansion to restore the total area of over 1,000 ha is being considered by Scottish Natural Heritage
• there has been a significant rise in the recognition and role of forestry in tourism. We are actively engaged with Tweed Valley Development Group, Tweeddale Tourism Consortium, VisitScotland, Scottish Enterprise Dumfries &Galloway, Dumfries & Galloway Council and other organisations, such as 7stanes, Countryside Trails, and Dog Sport Scotland, to maximise this delivery
Section one: strategic context
Section one
16 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
• Tweed Valley Forest Park was designated in 2002. Forestry Commission Scotland is now developing a new visitor services centre at Glentress Peel to address demand generated by 7stanes centre and the forest park. The Peel will be a showcase of quality recreation and sustainable development
• volunteering opportunities through Friends of Tweed Valley Forest Park, including the Osprey watch, the Green Team and the trail fairies have grown during the period. Our partnership with the Scottish Association for Mental Health is providing real work opportunities in the forest for people recovering from mental illness. This will change in emphasis as SAMH restructures its programmes
Much remains to be done and new challenges arise
out of the revised Scottish Forestry Strategy and
the demands of our stakeholders. The proposals for
responding to these and building on the successful
implementation of the previous strategic plan are
detailed in Section two.
• mountain biking has been the major area of investment over the period. The 7stanes development, undertaken as part of the south of Scotland’s recovery from foot and mouth disease, is now recognised as one of the world’s best mountain biking facilities. This has also been a focus for local business development, directly through café and bike hire premises in the forest and indirectly through providing services to the increased number of visitors
• community partnerships have developed, notably Cairnhead Community Forest Trust, Dalbeattie Forest Community Partnership, Ae Youth Eye, 7stanes and Dog Sport Scotland. We aim to develop and expand all community and other links as resources allow
• there has also been a growth in nature-based tourism in the district. We have been involved in the Tweed Osprey project in partnership with the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Scottish Natural Heritage, Kailzie Gardens and others to provide an opportunity for visitors to see live CCTV of the nest
District vision
The public forests of Dumfries and the
Borders are a sustainable natural resource
contributing to economic development through
timber and renewable energy, to tourism
through active outdoor recreation, and to
community wellbeing through participation.
District priorities
The main priority is to practice sustainable forest
management, which is one of the fundamental
operating principles outlined in the national
strategic plan for Forest Enterprise Scotland. This is
based on implementation of a range of important
standards and best practice national guidelines,
such as Forestry Commission Scotland forests and
water guidelines and legislation, such as the Health
and Safety Act. Our performance is externally
audited against the Forest Stewardship Council-
approved UK Woodland Assurance Standard.
Our Forest Stewardship Council certification
provides third party verification that Forestry
Commission Scotland forests are well managed.
We are firmly committed to retaining the
high standards required by the UK Woodland
Assurance Standard. This requires us to deliver
a baseline of good practice in all our work.
However, local circumstances and
opportunities mean that there are a number
of areas where we can also make a significant
contribution to the national delivery
against the Scottish Forestry Strategy:
Safeguarding national forestry treasures
A number of sites in the district have a high
cultural, landscape, conservation or recreational
value e.g. Glentress and the Tweed Valley Forest
Park, Mabie. These sites will be managed in a way
that preserves and enhances their special qualities.
Delivering forestry for people and rural development benefits where people live and work
The region is renowned for the 7stanes mountain
biking centres, but is also able to support a
range of other active outdoor recreation. This
is one of the drivers of the tourism of the
area and we are committed to maintaining
the trails and infrastructure of 7stanes and
working with partners and businesses to
develop the product for a wider audience.
The district has been engaged in a number of
exemplar community partnerships for many years
e.g. at Cairnhead, and will continue to respond to
interest from communities keen to become more
involved in the management of the local woods.
The district works closely with providers
and organisations in the development,
dissemination and delivery of forestry-
related education and training.
Strategic priorities for Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Section one
17 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Retaining sufficient timber production potential to facilitate market stability and development
The climate and suitability of the land for growing
Sitka spruce has made the south-east of Scotland
together with Kielder across the border a major
timber producing region and has attracted
significant investment in processing capacity to the
area. This will remain a key priority for the district
and we will seek to adopt management practices
through tailoring species to sites and thinning
regimes to sustain good quality timber production.
Sustaining sufficient regional presence to exercise policy development, exemplar and leadership roles
The district is well placed to contribute to
government climate change targets, with a
number of large scale windfarms consented
or under consideration and the supply of
biomass to E.ON for power generation
along with the Solway Mosses. We will
facilitate these and other opportunities
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.
Strategic priorities for Dumfries and Borders Forest District
Section one
18 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Forest policy contextThe 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.
Indicative forestry strategies Forestry frameworks Regional
Forestry Forum
Action
PLANNING
Work plansSite specific plans for projects
planned up to 2 years in advance of implementation
Thematic planse.g. biodiversity, thinning
Scottish Forestry Strategy 2006 – 2015
Forest Enterprise Scotland framework document
2008 – 2013
Strategic plan for the national forest estate
2009 - 2013
Business planRolling 3 year plan
Work programme
Monitoring
Review
POLICIES
UK Woodland Assurance Standard
Forestry Commission guidelines and policies
UK Forestry Standard
Dumfries and Borders Forest District Strategic Plan
2009 – 2013
Forest plans10 year plans in
20 – 30 year frameworks
Section one
19 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Section two
Scot land’s forests and woodlands are help ing suppor t many rural communi t ies and businesses.
Section two: how Dumfries and Borders Forest District contributes to the delivery of the Scottish
Forestry Strategy
20 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
In identifying issues, we seek to identify
key things we can influence. This requires
an analysis of our operating environment,
with consideration of problems and limiting
factors. If it is appropriate, this analysis will
sometimes be summarised in the plan.
For example, in considering our operating
environment for timber, we include mention of
the international trade in timber as a limiting
factor because this may not be immediately
obvious. In contrast, we do not mention the details
of silvicultural improvement when identifying
thinning as an issue as we feel these will be
assumed intuitively, e.g. thinning improves crops.
Section two: how Dumfries and Borders Forest District contributes to the delivery of the Scottish Forestry Strategy
Context
Section two
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.
21 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Renewable energy
The district is well placed to contribute towards
meeting existing and future renewable energy
targets. We are currently involved with a
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
wood energy business demand. Key partners in
the Renewable Forum share this view. There are
benefits in terms of the production of renewable
energy, the reduction in the timber transport
requirement, and in support of rural development.
There are issues around the availability of raw
material for biomass and woodfuel given existing
contractual commitments that need to be resolved.
The use of brash and fuel poles recovered from
harvesting sites is an option, as is the recovery of
stumps. These must be sustainable in terms of
soil fertility, soil carbon storage and economics
to the grower. Short rotation coppice is unlikely
to feature on the current national forest estate.
Key theme one: climate change
Section two
22 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
The potential for further windfarm schemes in
the district is being assessed to allow targeting of
future development to the most suitable sites.
Adapting to climate change
This is a complex subject and best practice is still evolving as research develops. We need to be aware of the latest research and consider the practical implications at local level.
At present, practical impacts appear to be in terms of changes in seasonal temperatures, rainfall and wind intensity and distribution. There is a projected increasing in the frequency of storm events, which bring the risk of increased windthrow and localised flooding.
Species choice will need to be kept under review. Climatic changes may have an impact on the health and growth potential of different tree species and provenance, and in pathology and disease.
Different silvicultural systems may be appropriate to adapt to changes in moisture and wind patterns. The increased windiness may cause unusually high levels of wind damage, particularly in the upland zone. Forest design, species choice and silviculture will need to be carefully considered for the succeeding rotations.
Different climatic conditions may bring about changes in biodiversity, both losses and gains, but also the risk of local extinction of some less adaptable species. For the native woodlands, expanding and enhancing forest habitat networks along with associated open ground habitats in the forest design will be important in creating more robust and responsive ecosystems.
We also need to identify and develop sustainable management practices for our operations, buildings and travel, covering issues such as energy conservation, types of fuel used, types of vehicles purchased, etc.
Flood and catchment management
Flood and catchment management will become increasingly important factors in forest planning, along with contingency planning for major events. Forest management practices can have a significant negative as well as positive impact on catchment management. We will continue to take opportunities to address past poor practice as the forests are restructured and promote best practice through the redesign. We will continue to support the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and Tweed Forum in developing and implementing the Solway-Tweed river basin management plan and in achieving the objectives of the Nith, Annan and Tweed area catchment management plans.
Carbon sequestration
There is potential for acquiring land for planting new productive woodlands for carbon sequestration, while also meeting other environmental and social objectives. Establishment on the better soils of the lowlands would have the greatest potential for carbon sequestration. This would link more readily to other social and environmental objectives such as community woodland development and forest habitat networks.
Our understanding of the carbon sequestration capacity of the forest estate is developing and our research division is taking a lead in this area nationally. We will keep up to date with their work and adapt our policies and practices in response to their recommendations.
There is scope for increasing our contribution in areas such as longer rotations and the adoption of low impact silvicultural systems where practical, and in native woodland expansion and open habitat restoration (see also key theme six).
Key theme one: climate change
Section two
23 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme one: climate change
Key theme: climate change
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Renewable energy
D&B
1.01
Maximise the potential for wind farms on the national forest estate to help deliver
government targets for renewable energy and carbon reduction while balancing community
and environmental interest.
D&B
1.02
Help facilitate the woodfuel/biomass market growth and emerging woodfuel enterprises
through making volume available on the open market which could be of interest to woodfuel
purchasers.
Continue to respond to enquires for local small scale firewood sales where resources allow.
D&B
1.03
(see also
D&B
2.12)
Install a woodfuel heating system in the Glentress Peel development along with specific
energy saving practices. Use this and other features of the Peel to raise public awareness of
sustainable design and practice.
Advocate sustainable building and heating systems in any new office developments by the
Scotland Government’s Environmental and Rural Services in Dumfries and Galloway, and in
National Forest Land Scheme affordable housing projects.
D&B
1.04
Encourage small-scale hydroelectricity development on the national forest estate, with due
regard to community, planning and environmental concerns
Adapting to climate change
D&B
1.05
Use the Forest Research ecological site classification system to make sure that resilient species
are planted on suitable sites to provide insurance for the future. This will be followed through
in forest plans and detailed site plans, supported by local guidance on species selection and
native trees and shrubs.
D&B
1.06
Use other decision-support systems, such as ForestGales, to inform the development of robust
forest design plans in the event of increase in major wind and rain events.
Section two
24 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme: climate change
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Adapting to climate change
D&B
1.07
Identify opportunities in existing forests and potential acquisitions for developing and
expanding robust forest and open ground habitat networks.
D&B
1.08
Adopt the practices identified in the evolving Forestry Commission Scotland business
sustainability initiative in all buildings, visitor facilities, operations and travel, such as
reductions in energy consumption, carbon emissions and waste.
D&B
1.09
Develop and maintain local contingency plans for major incidents based on the national
plans. Support local authority major emergencies planning.
Flood and catchment management
D&B
1.10
Work with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency and river basin management plan
partners to identify demonstration sites to show best practice in catchment management
through forest design.
D&B
1.11
Work with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, Tweed Forum and others to
implement the relevant aspects of the river basin management plan and the area catchment
management plans, including actions that will help to reduce the impact of flooding.
D&B
1.12
(See also
D&B
6.04)
Identify areas where flood risk and slope stability may be issues. Taking advice from others,
incorporate appropriate action into forest design plans and adapt harvesting and restocking
operations accordingly.
Section two
Key theme one: climate change
25 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme: climate change
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Carbon sequestration
D&B
1.13
Create new woodland where this can make a significant contribution
to carbon sequestration, forest habitat network development,
flood risk mitigation and/or community benefits.
D&B
1.14
Consider climate change implications in any decision to remove woodland and look at
options to mitigate the loss e.g. by offset planting, in support of national policy.
Section two
Key theme one: climate change
26 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme two: timber
Section two
Timber supply
Timber production is currently around 500,000
cubic metres/year and projected to remain at this
level over the next five to ten years. The majority
of volume is generated from clearfelling, with
around 60,000 cubic metres/year derived from
thinning. We are looking to increase the proportion
of the volume from thinning operations.
A small proportion of the district is regarded as
economically marginal, but this tends to occur
as localised areas in larger forests. Parts of the
Upper Nithsdale woodlands and the scree
slopes of the Tweed fall into this category, as
well as being sensitive to harvesting operations.
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
Our current production forecasting methods can
predict timber yields from the traditional clearfell/
re-stock system reasonably accurately, but they
are less reliable for thinning and areas managed
under continuous cover. This is being addressed at
a national level as part of the preparation for the
next published forecast in 2010/11. Work is also
needed to improve predictions of timber quality.
Restructuring of the forest will lead to an
increase in open space and broadleaves for
conservation. The reduction in productive conifer
area, and potentially in supply, is compensated
for by improved establishment techniques
and the use of improved growing stock.
Timber quality
The coastal areas around the Solway and the
Tweed valley have traditionally produced the best
quality timber, although yield classes in the uplands
remain high. Work on improved management
of second rotation crops is a priority to improve
timber quality for the future markets. Appropriate
species and provenance choice, both for the site
and end products, together with attention to
establishment standards and silvicultural thinning,
are essential to continuing to produce construction
grade timber (C16 and above) for future use.
Thinning has been variable in the district, with
many of the crops in the Tweed valley and along
the Solway coast being well-thinned and now
yielding quality products. There has been less
thinning undertaken in other parts of the district,
nevertheless the largely Sitka spruce crops are
still producing some quality wood. The market
conditions of recent years have also made it
difficult to sustain the thinning programme.
We are currently reviewing our thinning policy
with a presumption to thin all suitable crops.
Timber transport
The forests in the district are relatively close to
our customers and within 50 miles of a major
processor. Despite the proximity of the markets,
the costs of the supply chain are still a significant
issue. Many of factors are derived from national
issues, such as the high cost of diesel and shortage
of skilled labour. Increasing efficiency and a
more equitable share of the profits in the chain
remains a high priority at a national level.
South Scotland Forest Industries Cluster
provides both a forum for the different elements
of the industry to meet and a co-ordinating
role to promote closer partnerships.
Timber haulage is a major cost in the supply
chain and in terms of the impact it has on
forest and public road maintenance, on carbon
emissions and on communities along the key
routes. Timber transport groups bring together
the industry and the local authorities to work
together to minimise these impacts. The agreed
routes map is one of the tools used. We are taking
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.
Key theme two: timber
Section two
28 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Hardwood timber
There is very limited area of lowland-type
broadleaved plantations in the district. To
date, these have only produced low quality
hardwood timber, mainly firewood products.
There is little scope for expanding lowland-type
timber production due to our generally poorer soils.
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.
Timber in construction
This is a national issue, but also one adopted
by Scottish Borders Council in its woodland
strategy and through its project to promote
construction and sustainable development
using local timber. There are opportunities to
showcase timber in construction in the national
recreation facility planned at Glentress.
Key theme two: timber
Section two
29 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme two: timber
Key theme: Timber
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Timber supply
D&B
2.01
Maximise potential in areas identified for productive timber species through best practice and
the use of improved stock, wherever possible.
D&B
2.02
Produce a forecast of timber production (2011), based on achieving a sustainable level of
production, supplemented by annual marketing plans matching those predictions (currently
at 500,000 cubic metres/year).
D&B
2.03
Maintain our compliance with the UK Woodland Assurance Standard to allow our customers
to gain certification for their products, e.g. through the Forest Stewardship Council.
Timber quality
D&B
2.04
Distribution of species and selection of correct provenance will follow sound silvicultural
practice to provide a quality growing stock at the correct density.
D&B
2.05
Review the thinning programme based on a presumption to thin all suitable areas. This is
expected to increase the volume of timber derived from thinning.
D&B
2.06Proactively manage natural regeneration areas to meet the objectives for the site.
Timber transport
D&B
2.07
Continue partnership working with the local timber transport groups to develop industry
solutions that provide efficient transport and social and environmental benefits, e.g.
development of alternative in forest haulage routes.
D&B
2.08
Use low ground pressure vehicles to reduce the impact of haulage on the environment and
the associated cost on the infrastructure, where appropriate.
D&B
2.09
Adhere to agreed route maps for timber transport and the code of practice for road haulage
of round timber.
Section two
30 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme two: timber
Key theme: Timber
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Hardwood timber
D&B
2.10
Review the current broadleaved resource and assess opportunities for further expansion by
June 2010.
D&B
2.11
(See also
D&B
1.03)
Identify areas suitable for growing productive quality broadleaves and establish a local trial
area to inform future targets and suitable species.
Timber in construction
D&B
2.12
Identify opportunities to demonstrate the use of timber in construction, maximising the
use of local timber, e.g. Glentress Peel, office developments by the Scotland Government’s
Environmental and Rural Services at Dumfries and Galashiels; road bridges.
D&B
2.13Specify sustainability measures in all building tenders.
31 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Section two
Key theme three: business developmentSkills
The forest industry as a whole in the south-east
of Scotland has an ageing workforce and a skills
shortage, particularly for skilled people in chainsaw
work and establishment. The majority of contactors
are small enterprises (<10 people) with an increase in
migrant workers in some sectors.
New challenges, such as the development of
mountain biking and the increase in social inclusion
ideas, requires more specialist skills. This is bringing
people with a wider range of experiences and
expertise into the forests.
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.
Section two
32 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
We need to continue to encourage and retain
younger people into forestry through schemes
such as work experience placement for secondary
pupils and the forestry apprenticeship scheme.
All vacancies are advertised through the Forestry
Commission Scotland website and locally.
There is a continuing need to develop existing
staff and contractor skills to sustain the current
programmes, meet new challenges and improve
performance in current activities.
Timber
Tourism has become a mainstay of the local economy, and continues to maintain an increasing turnover and employment. The landscape and recreation opportunities are a major factor in people’s choice to visit the region, which is promoted as a ‘natural place’ and a ‘gateway to Scotland’.
The area draws visitors from a wide area, with Edinburgh and the north of England being particularly important markets. Forestry is recognised as having a significant role in tourism development and delivery through the provision of recreation facilities, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and the design and management of forests in the landscape.
Walking continues to be the main pursuit for many forest visitors, but other activities have been growing rapidly in popularity in recent years. Mountain biking has become the major outdoor activity of the area, and adventure or active sports are identified as one of the key development areas for the district, building on the success of 7stanes as one of Scotland’s top mountain biking destinations. The forests of the area regularly host events, including some national mountain biking events.
We are operating in a very competitive and increasingly discerning market for leisure time. We must continue to improve the quality of our recreation provision (information and facilities), particularly in areas of high-density use, such as Mabie, Ae and the Tweed valley. In doing so, we also need to assess and manage the potential environmental impact of increased travel.
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.
Key theme three: business development
Section two
33 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Income Diversification
There is a need for sustainable sources of income for the management of the forests, to realise its conservation potential and to make continuous improvement in the quality of our recreation facilities.
Timber production is a key objective and accounts for 94.5% of the district’s income. Revenue generated from car parks and other recreation activities yields 2.5%. Leases for communication masts, properties, shooting and grazing, together with the sale of venison and Christmas trees provide the remaining 3% of our income.
The market for small-scale local timber products, woodfuel and for non-timber forest products is modest at present, but there is potential for further development provided these are environmentally sustainable. Renewable energy projects, such as windfarms and biomass plants, are currently the most likely sources of significant additional revenue for the national forest estate.
There are, however, other opportunities to diversify our income base through non-timber sources of income. The national forest estate can provide a location for various enterprises. Realising this potential requires raising and maintaining the profile of the forests with local decision-makers, especially in economic and social terms. Promoting local co-operation and working in partnership are also key issues. We are involved with a diverse range of local bodies, including South Scotland Forest Industries Cluster, community groups, tourism groups, and environmental bodies.
Key theme three: business development
Section two
34 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Contribution to rural development
Management of the forest for timber production
underpins jobs in forest establishment and in
maintenance, harvesting and haulage. A significant
number of jobs are also supported through
downstream processing. This remains a core part of
our business.
Many local businesses derive benefits from visitors
to the forests, in particular mountain biking. Local
businesses at Glentress, Ae and Mabie serve the
needs of the forest visitors through cafés and bike
hire. Local accommodation and service providers
have also developed business opportunities from
the additional visitors drawn to the forests.
There is potential for further development in this
area, particularly in relation to activity sports, with
a recent study managed by Scottish Enterprise
identifying gaps and opportunities in provision. We
will build on existing initiatives, such as 7stanes,
and endeavour to manage and improve the quality
of recreation provision to sustain the level of
visitors and provide opportunities and support for
local businesses. We will make sure there is a fair
and open process to develop specific opportunities
based in the forests.
The forests also make a significant indirect
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.
Key theme three: business development
Key theme: Business development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Skills
D&B
3.01
Prepare a workforce development plan to identify skill shortages, training needs, learning and
development opportunities so staff skills match developing policies and demands.
D&B
3.02
Promote continuous improvements to the safety culture in the sector, by exhibiting best
practice on the national forest estate.
D&B
3.03
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
of potential employment opportunities through a programme of work placements and the
work of the Forest Education Initiative in supporting forestry skills development and careers
guidance in schools.
D&B
3.04
Continue to support Forestry Commission Scotland Learning and Development Services and
the Barony College through facilitating on-site training and learning experience and through
advice on course development.
D&B
3.05Secure funding to sustain a Modern Apprentice programme.
D&B
3.06
Continue to work in partnership with Barony college, Scottish Enterprise and others to provide
opportunities for upskilling of contractors through forest-based practical training courses and
through targeted seminars.
Tourism (see also under recreation)
D&B
3.07
Continue to consider the landscape value of woodlands to tourism during revision of forest
plans including opportunities for managing areas under low impact silvicultural systems.
D&B
3.08
Work with partners to realise the economic potential of 7stanes and mountain-biking as a
largely forest-based activity and help to develop the potential for other world class sporting
facilities in forests.
Section three
35 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme three: business development
Key theme: Business development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Tourism (continued)
D&B
3.09
Where appropriate, facilitate development on the national forest estate of adventure and
wildlife tourism products by local businesses, which offer a quality of experience that attracts
a greater number and wider range of visitors and encourages longer stays.
D&B
3.10
Actively seek resources e.g. from external funding and income generation, to continually
improve the information, service and facilities on offer.
D&B
3.11Actively encourage the use of the forest for competitive sporting and other types of events.
D&B
3.12
Continue to monitor visitor numbers and take part in national surveys to maintain our
understanding of tourism demand and requirements.
Income diversification
D&B
3.13
Identify and test opportunities for income diversification, which is vital to protect programme
development in other areas, in particular by increasing the percentage of revenue generated
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.
D&B
3.14
Assess forests with low scores from the portfolio analysis for opportunities to improve their
non-market and/or economic performance. If this is not possible, they will be considered for
sale to realise money for recycling to other key work areas, including new acquisitions.
D&B
3.15
Remain open to new business ideas on the national forest estate that are compatible with our
objectives and standards and capable of generating income.
Section three
36 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme three: business development
Key theme: Business development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Rural development
D&B
3.16
Seek to continually raise the profile of forestry with local decision-makers and work in
partnership with others to increase the benefits to the local economy derived from the forests.
D&B
3.17
Remain open to new business ideas based on the use of forest services and products that
match our wider social and environmental standards and consider positively proposals that
will assist growth or development of local businesses.
D&B
3.18
Continue to develop electronic trading with timber customers and pilot extending this to
harvesting contractors.
Section three
37 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme four: community development
Section two
Woods in and around towns
Well-managed and attractive forests are a source
of pride for the people who work in them and the
communities who live by them. Forests contribute to
the quality of life when they provide attractive settings
to workplaces, travel routes and homes, and when
they are readily accessible for rest and recreation.
Areas classified under the Forestry Commission
Scotland initiative as woodlands in and around towns
are Venlaw, Cademuir, Glentress (Peebles), part of
Caberston (Innerleithen), Dalbeattie and Heathhall
(Dumfries). Dalbeattie enjoys a well-established
community woodland partnership. Borders Forest
Trust organises community events in the community
woodlands of the Tweed valley.
38 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Community engagement
Communities associated with the national forest
estate in the district have different aspirations and
resources, and our engagement with them occurs on
a number of levels. Communities share a common
desire to be informed of what is happening in the
forest. The impacts of transport of timber through
communities and changes in the landscape though
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.
Many communities also wish to have an
opportunity to influence long-term management
decisions, such as through local forest design plan
consultation. We host annual meetings of the two
forest panels to share information and gain valuable
comment on forest design plans. Given support
and scope, the panels could contribute more to the
management of the district.
Key theme four: community development
Section two
Community engagement (continued)
We continue to explore ways that the national forest
estate can add further value to this experience by
engaging proactively with community members
and others in an inclusive approach to the
management of and delivery from the estate. We
already have some notable exemplars of the benefits
of this approach, such as Cairnhead Community
Forest Trust and Moniaive and Dalbeattie Forest
Community Partnership, with both communities
taking a key role in the partnerships.
Other communities have become very active in
management issues, such as developing access
or options to generate economic benefit for their
community from recreation or forest products and
services. Several communities, such as at Stakeford,
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.
Community ownership
There have been a few enquiries under the National
Forest Land Scheme for community ownership and
management. Of these Auchencairn (Rascarrel)
and Closeburn (Claurie) are the most advanced,
with the Upper Borthwick (Craik) and Houndwood
(Greenwood and Renton) communities still at an
informal stage. Most communities that we engage
with have decided against pursuing community
ownership, preferring instead to work with us in
planning, developing and delivering their aspirations
in a partnership approach.
We continue to explore suitable sites for housing
development, particularly in relation to affordable
housing. To date, the main interest and activity has
been focused on discussions around Ae Village.
39 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Learning
Our resources for education are limited and we need to focus on specific groups, on activities which meet the needs of the national curriculum, and on facilitating use of the forest by others. We also need to increase the impact of our involvement by working with others, such as
Borders Forest Trust and the local Forest Education
Initiative (FEI) cluster. Our priorities are schools close to forests that are interested in an ongoing connection with their local forest, such as the Forest Schools at Ae and Auchenrodden.
Engagement with secondary schools through FEI and national policy is likely to become more vocational and linked to rural skills programmes. We will look to providing work experience opportunities for pupils within the constraints imposed. Another key group for us are individuals with learning or behavioural difficulties who would benefit from a forest experience. Some local outdoor activity centres make use of the forest for activities, and increasingly groups from further afield are being attracted to the 7stane sites for mountain biking.
We are actively engaged in supporting the provision of educational opportunities to local, national and international visiting groups, including at Glentress where the district has had a long association with the University of Edinburgh through the trial area.
The importance of the contribution that forests can make to combating climate change, and the practices we are adopting in new building and business sustainability, provide opportunity to raise public awareness of the role of forests and timber in practice.
Our volunteering programmes, such as the mountain bike patrol, provide opportunities for people to undertake practical tasks, develop new skills in countryside management, and increase their knowledge of the environment. A Green Team conservation volunteer group has been successful in the past, but is currently not operational due to lack of staff time. There is scope to increase the role of volunteering as a route back into paid employment.
Partnerships
We are committed to a partnership approach that allows communities to work with us and other organisations and groups to plan, develop and deliver their aspirations, and to support a wide range of woodland uses. Partnerships bring significant amounts of additional resource and investment to support various projects. There are varying degrees of formality, from binding legal agreements and formal concordats to very loose arrangements based on shared objectives or special interests. In practice, the least formal relationships can be the most productive by focusing on outputs.
Our role in these partnerships appears to be delivering the long-term base for the community groups to build from and deliver the additional benefits that we do not have the resources to provide. This is proving to be a successful combination for all partners, although servicing these groups can be demanding in staff time. Time needs to be invested at an early stage to make a realistic evaluation of group objectives, aspirations and capacity.
Section two
Key theme four: community development
40 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme: community development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Woodlands in and around towns
D&B
4.01Identify proposals for acquisition of land/woodlands in close proximity to towns.
D&B
4.02
Work with local authorities to develop and promote access to forests without needing a car
e.g. by safe multi-user routes or by public transport.
Community engagement
D&B
4.03
Maintain a programme of forest panel meetings and local consultation on forest design plans
as they are revised. Continue to develop links with local communities to seek to make sure
that management of the national forest estate reflects both local and national objectives
D&B
4.04
Identify ways of increasing contact with all communities adjacent to forests to provide
regular information on local forest operations and other activities.
D&B
4.05
Engage with and support communities currently, or wishing to become, active in the
management of their local forest e.g. woodlands in the Forestry Commission Scotland
woodlands in and around towns initiative.
D&B
4.06
Maintain and increase the opportunities to engage with communities of interest in the forest
e.g. mountain biking, equestrian, access, special needs.
Community ownership
D&B
4.07
Receive positively all community approaches on purchase and process applications that fit
the criteria published in the National Forest Land Scheme as quickly as possible.
D&B
4.08
Inform community councils of forests for any sale in their area as soon as possible to give
them adequate time to consider their position.
Section two
Key theme four: community development
41 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme: community development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Learning
D&B
4.09
(see also
D&B
3.03)
Work with the Forest Education Initiative and the education sector to make greater use of
woodlands for outdoor learning, focusing in particular on facilitating use rather than always
leading groups directly.
D&B
4.10
Work with schools in close proximity to forests that are interested in an
ongoing connection with their local forest e.g. through forest schools.
D&B
4.11
Review volunteer programme and identify ways to increase the level,
range and scope of volunteering activity in the forest.
D&B
4.12
Continue to host and facilitate visits by a variety of groups including
local, national and international policy makers and specialists.
D&B
4.13Prepare a district learning strategy.
Partnerships
D&B
4.14
Continue to work with existing partnerships e.g. Cairnhead community forest trust and
Newcastleton Business Forum.
D&B
4.15
Actively consider partnership approaches by stakeholders or businesses to develop local
capacity or grow the local economy.
Section two
Key theme four: community development
42 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme five: access and health
Section two
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 centres across the south of Scotland has brought a significant increase in the quality of recreation provision and in the profile and use of the forest. Continuing maintenance and improvement of the quality of provision on the extensive network of trails are essential for visitors’ enjoyment of the woods and recreational user satisfaction. Safety standards must also consistently improve as the visitor numbers increase, but without impacting on people’s enjoyment of their chosen activity. No further trails are planned and the focus is on the maintenance and enhancement of the existing sites. The development of a major new gateway visitor service centre for the Tweed valley, at Glentress, is currently underway.
Recreation development and increasing visitor numbers can have a negative environmental impact through disturbance and erosion etc. We will address this through assessments prior to any enhancement of facilities and through appropriate management.
43 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
The downhill courses at Ae and Innerleithen have a national reputation as competition venues. It is, however, a niche market with incumbent management issues for Forestry Commission Scotland requiring a long-term sustainable solution.
We deliver a full events programme, including performing arts, often in partnership with community groups, with the intention of appealing to a wide range of interests and ages. We also provide a wide range of opportunities for more specialist activities, such as orienteering and field archery that are run through a permissions system.
The interpretation of the natural and cultural environment has been undertaken in various ways over the years. This should be continuously refreshed, with an increasing move from traditional panels to more interactive or art-based forms. There is opportunity for interpretation to be developed around a ‘climate
change and the role of forestry’ theme.
Key theme five: access and health
Section two
Making access easier
Forestry Commission Scotland has operated
a policy of open access for walkers, riders and
cyclists for many years. This is now enshrined in
Scottish legislation as a right of responsible access.
As part of the legislation, core path networks
provide links between communities and greater
access to walking and cycling routes for all. Where
appropriate, we support the designation of core
paths through the forests. There are some trails
for less able visitors with scope for more routes,
although many of the forests, particularly in the
Tweed valley, are on relatively steep valley sides.
However, by working with the Roughriders, we
have established downhill trails for specially
adapted mountain bikes in Ae, Glentress and
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.
Information on access and facilities is available
in leaflet form and on the internet. There is
scope for more use of modern technology
in providing this type of information.
We have started a programme of managing
threshold areas of the forests to make the forests
more welcoming to the public. The ongoing
issue with unauthorised motor bike access is
being tackled with the help of the police.
We do not work in isolation, as many of the
forests also provide links for longer trails, and
we take part in the local access forum. We
have also been involved in Countryside Trails
and Tweed Trails that have greatly increased
the access opportunities in the region.
44 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme five: access and health
Section two
45 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Health
There are real opportunities to encourage
healthy outdoor pursuits in the forest areas.
The district’s forests are enjoyed by a variety
of user groups, and opportunities afforded
by 7stanes, Countryside Trails and Dog
Sport Scotland are increasingly helping to
encourage local young people to stay active.
Mountain biking has seen a large and rapid
increase in the number of visitors to the 7stane
sites, including many people who would not
have used the woods in the past. The initial trails
tended to be more demanding, reflecting the
nature of the sport’s growth. During phase two of
the development the number of easier grade and
family trails were increased, and the 7stanes’ team
promoted mountain biking to a wider audience.
Walking is enjoyed by a very wide ability and
age group. We have been actively engaged with
Paths2Health through events and promoting
Forests for Health, but there has been limited
response to our efforts of engagement with the
health authorities to identify opportunities for
greater use of the forests in improving health. We
will continue to try to establish these links. There
is scope for significantly more development for
supporting improvements in both mental and
physical health, given adequate resources, and
building on the previous work with the Scottish
Association for Mental Health at Glentress
Key theme: access and health
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Recreation
D&B
5.01
Review and revise the district recreation and tourism strategy. Prepare
formal site plans for all the recreation facilities including a review
of how they address our diversity and equality aims.
D&B
5.02
Seek further investment to maintain and enhance current facilities and to increase their use
by local people.
D&B
5.03
Consistently implement best practice in sustainable design and management and in safety
on all our recreation sites.
D&B
5.04
Update our key interpretative facilities and implement the Tweed Valley Forest Park
interpretation strategy.
D&B
5.05
Target management activity where there is greatest need and best value for money including
fulfilling our diversity and equality aims.
D&B
5.06
Consider investment in new facilities where it delivers significant local benefit or fulfils our
diversity and equality aims. Funding needs also to address future maintenance commitments.
D&B
5.07
Complete the construction of Glentress Peel and develop its role as a flagship facility and
orientation point for the Tweed valley.
D&B
5.08
Commit to ensuring the maintenance of the trails and infrastructure of 7stanes and to work
with partners and businesses to develop the product for the wider audience.
Section two
Key theme five: access and health
46 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme: access and health
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Making access easier
D&B
5.09
Work with local access officers and the access forum to identify appropriate routes on the
national forest e state that will form part of the core path network.
D&B
5.10
In consultation with specific user group representation review the provision for appropriately
scaled and located all abilities facilities and seek resources to implement recommendations
D&B
5.11
Review the information available on the recreation facilities and on general access to the
forests and make recommendations for amendment by June 2010.
D&B
5.12
Continue to make the thresholds of all suitable forests more welcoming through signing,
easier access and management of entrances.
D&B
5.13
Work with the police to continue to tackle the issue of unauthorised motor vehicle access
to forests and other anti-social behaviour.scaled and located all abilities facilities and seek
resources to implement recommendations
Health
D&B
5.14
Promote and facilitate greater use of the national forest estate for physical activity through
working with health professional and Forestry Commission Scotland health co-ordinators to
undertake measures such as support for walk leaders.
D&B
5.15
Improve and target information provision and promotion of healthy activities, with an
emphasis on people who currently do not make use of the forests.
D&B
5.16
Raise awareness and provide information for staff on health and lifestyle issues through a
nominated district champion.scaled and located all abilities facilities and seek resources to
implement recommendations
Section two
Key theme five: access and health
47 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme six: environmental quality
Section two
Many of our forests are in the catchments of
the rivers Tweed, Nith, Esk and Annan, which
are important fish spawning areas. A number
of domestic water supplies also have their
catchments wholly or partially in the forests,
ranging from individual supplies to reservoirs
providing town supplies. We protect water
quality on the national forest estate by adhering
to forests and water guidelines and controlled
activity regulations in all our operations, together
with good forest design and the identification of
forest habitat networks at a catchment level.
48 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Soil, water and air quality
Good practice, such as Forestry Commission
Scotland forests and water, and soil conservation
guidelines, will generally protect soils on flatter
to moderate terrain from erosion, compaction
or loss of nutrients, but the district does face
challenges in operating in steep terrain. The
inherent technical difficulties, plus extreme
weather events and low economic feasibility,
mean that work is required in this area to find
solutions. This is most notable in parts of the
forests in Upper Nithsdale and in the Tweed valley,
where scree and the high visibility of the forests
above the River Tweed add a further dimension.
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.
Key theme six: environmental quality
Section two
Soil, water and air quality (continued)
Forests may have a increasing role in the
management, protection and enhancement of
water resources, such as through the creation of
flood plain woodland and as part of sustainable
flood alleviation measures to protect vulnerable
settlements. Scottish Borders Council is leading
a pilot study on sustainable flood management
in the Craik area. (see key theme one)
The EU water framework directive sets out
demanding targets for improving and maintaining
water in good ecological condition. Delivery of
the targets requires the involvement and co-
operation of all landowners and water users
in the catchment. The directive requires the
preparation of a river basin management plan
covering the Tweed and the Solway, which should
be complete by December 2009. There are
more detailed management plans for individual
catchments and we will continue to work with the
Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, Tweed
Forum and others to maintain and improve the
ecological status of the region’s water bodies.
Landscape
Although the district’s forests are relatively recent,
they are a significant feature in the landscape helping
to create a sense of place and making a positive
contribution to landscape quality. Each landscape
has its own characteristics, but in the past forests
have not always been planted and managed in
sympathy with that character. We must make sure
that the restructuring of the forests, including the
adjustment of external boundaries through the
forest design plan process, maintains or enhances
these features and the wider landscape in general.
Some forests lie in the East Stewartry and Nith Estuary
national scenic areas, and in regional scenic areas
and areas of great landscape value. Other forests
not in designated sites, such as those in the Tweed
valley, are particularly sensitive to change and form
a backdrop to communities and tourist activities.
A strategic landscape analysis of the forests of the
Tweed Valley Forest Park has been prepared to guide
the preparation of individual plans and to increase
harmony between them. This is one of the areas
where the use of lower impact silviculture systems can
help minimise impact of harvesting on key landscapes.
49 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme six: environmental quality
Section two
50 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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.
Key theme: environmental quality
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Soil, water and air quality
D&B
6.01
(see also
D&B
1.11)
Work with the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency, Tweed Forum and the fisheries
boards to plan and implement local actions in the river basin management plans and area
catchment management plans to contribute to the achievement of good ecological and
chemical status for the region’s water bodies by 2015, and in the protection of the Tweed
special area of conservation.
D&B
6.02
Effectively implement Forestry Commission Scotland forests and water,
and soils guidelines and the controlled activities regulations.
D&B
6.03
Consult key stakeholders, particularly the Scottish Environmental
Protection Agency to identify site and downstream issues on sensitive
sites to inform the development of detailed operational site plans.
D&B
6.04
(see also
D&B
1.12)
Support the delivery of actions identified in the climate change action plan to identify slope
instability issues in sensitive locations and develop local site management strategies.
Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
51 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme: environmental quality
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Landscapes
D&B
6.05
Continue to include landscape characteristics and sensitivity as a major consideration in
long-term forest planning. Resolve issues and make balanced decisions on the rate and scale
of change taking into account other issues such as economics and biodiversity value.
D&B
6.06
Continue to include landscape characteristics and sensitivity as a major consideration in
long-term forest planning. Resolve issues and make balanced decisions on the rate and
scale of change taking into account other issues such as economics and biodiversity value.
Cultural
D&B
6.07
Continue to work with local archaeologists and Historic Scotland to protect the ancient
monuments in our care and to make sure that cultural heritage issues are adequately
addressed in forest design plans and site plans.
D&B
6.08
Record known unscheduled monuments in the Forestry Commission
Scotland geographic information system and agree management
plans for schedules monuments with Historic Scotland.
D&B
6.09Train field staff to identify potential cultural sites.
D&B
6.10
Work with Historic Scotland and others to identify key locations suitable for interpretation
e.g. Dumfries and Galloway Archaeosights, including sites with local folklore associations.
Section two
Key theme six: environmental quality
52 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Section two
53 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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,
including priority habitats. These tend to be smaller
and more fragmented in the east of the district.
The priority is to continue the recording of these
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.
The lowland mire sites are well represented in
the west, with around 700 ha with potential for
restoration. Priority is currently focused on the
Longbridgemuir complex (see designated sites).
Key theme seven: biodiversity
Section two
54 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Species and habitats (continued)
Native woodlands are poorly represented in
the district with only around 1% of the area
either classed as semi-natural woodland or
plantations on ancient woodland sites (PAWS).
This proportion is even lower in the east of the
district. Although these areas are small, they are
locally significant. Restoration of PAWS sites,
and the enhancement and further expansion
of native woodland and associated open
habitats, will continue to be a high priority.
There is a similarly diverse range of species in the national forest estate. We can address the conservation of many of these species through 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.
Targeted work is also undertaken on some locally important species, such as goshawk, osprey, great crested newt, bats, short eared owl and barn owls.
Invasive non-native vegetation is not, at present, a significant issue in the district. We have carried out small control programmes for rhododendron, salmon berry and Japanese knotweed. It will be necessary to manage conifer regeneration in open space where the intention is for the site to be permanently open. Its removal will also be necessary above an agreed level in broadleaf woodland areas. Invasive non-native fauna include mink and signal crayfish, which are both
monitored with the river fisheries boards.
Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
55 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Ecosystems
The conifer forests form large-scale habitats that
with appropriate and restructuring advances
are developing as ecosystems in their own right.
The restoration and creation of other habitats
in the district, such as native woodland, upper
margins, wetland and riparian corridors, all takes
place in the context of the wider conifer forest
system. This will provide relatively undisturbed
areas allowing natural processes to take priority.
More work is needed to manage these new
habitats in the initial phase. This includes
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.
Deer population management is a high
priority. Roe deer are found throughout the
district and red, sika and fallow deer are all
found locally. We will continue to take part in
the relevant deer management groups. Work
carried out as a result of additional resource
input over recent years to bring populations
to levels which permit regeneration has been
largely successful, but there remains some
requirements for fencing or tubes to allow the
more sensitive species to establish quickly.
Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
56 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Designated sites
The diverse environment gives rise to a high
biodiversity in the district. We have a responsibility
for parts of seven designated sites and, except
for the Tweed special area of conservation, we
manage these areas in accordance with plans
agreed with Scottish Natural Heritage.
The aim is to maintain or achieve favourable or
unfavourable recovering conservation condition
for all these areas, as far as possible. (See Table one
below and Appendix one: ‘Location of national
parks, national scenic areas, forest parks and
areas of great landscape value’; and ‘Location
of national nature reserves, Natura sites, sites of
special scientific interest and ancient woodlands’.)
Name Area Type ConditionLongbridgemuir
SAC
317 ha Lowland raised mire Unfavourable recovering
Tweed SAC N/A Watercourse with high ecological diversity (no plan required)
Glenkinnon burn SSSI
8.0 ha Upland mixed and ash woodland Unfavourable recovering
Plora wood SSSI 2.5 ha Semi-natural woodland Unfavourable recovering
Palmers hill cutting SSSI
1.2 ha Non-marine Devonian geological Favourable maintained
Kielderhead SSSI 1086 ha Upland dwarf shrub heath and bog Favourable maintained
Abbey Burnfoot to Balcarry Point
4.7 ha Coastal Unfavourable
(SAC = special area of conservation; SSSI
= site of special scientific interest.)
The Solway Mosses, covering over 1,000 ha in
the district, is one of the most significant raised
mire complexes in western Europe. We are
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.
Around 75% of the Borders forests are in the
catchment of the river Tweed special area of
conservation and their management must
take account of the potential impact on water
quality and river morphology as well as the
qualifying species – Atlantic salmon and otter.
Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
57 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Increasing awareness and improving knowledge
There are gaps in our knowledge of what occurs on the national forest estate and in baseline data on condition and populations. We need to address these through working with our own staff and with local experts who know the ground, and through increasing and targeting of species and habitats monitoring. We are building our understanding of the open ground habitats through surveys carried out at the time of forest design plan revision.
Biodiversity is a key issue in all forest design plans and is becoming integrated into all our 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.
Geodiversity
The national forest estate has a significant role
in conserving Scotland’s geodiversity, which
includes the variety of rocks, minerals, fossils,
landforms, and sediments and soils, together
with the natural processes that form or alter
them. We have one designated sites of special
scientific interest, at Palmers Hill. Our road
construction work has exposed some interesting
geological formations over the years and we
are working with a pilot geodiversity group,
GeoD, in Dumfries and Galloway developing
links to education and interpretation.
Key theme: biodiversity
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Species and habitats
D&B
7.01
Review progress in restoring plantations on ancient woodland sites by
June 2010 and set out targets for the next phase of restoration.
D&B
7.02
Continue to develop the area of native woodland and assess
the potential for its expansion within the district.
D&B
7.03
Survey all open ground habitats in the district as each forest design plan is
revised to identify priority habitats and opportunities for expansion and for
moorland fringe development in balance with our other objectives.
D&B
7.04
Continue to take account of the need to protect and enhance the prospects for
our priority species in future forest structure and management practices.
Landscapes and ecosystems
D&B
7.05
Diversify planted woodlands through restructuring and the use of an appropriate
range of silvicultural systems including an increase in natural reserves, long-
term retentions and the volume of deadwood in the forest area.
D&B
7.06
Collaborate with neighbouring landowners, South Scotland Conservancy and
Scottish Natural Heritage to create functioning landscape-scale habitat networks.
D&B
7.07
Work with local deer management groups to manage deer population
over their range, recognising the interests of all parties.
Section two
Key theme seven: biodiversity
58 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Section two
Key theme: community development
Key issue What Dumfries and Borders Forest District will do
Designated sites
D&B
7.08
Work with Scottish Natural Heritage and other partners to develop and
implement a management plan for the restoration of the remaining areas of the
raised mires of the Solway Mosses. Seek funding for the implementation.
D&B
7.09
Use management plans agreed with Scottish Natural Heritage to achieve
95% of features on the parts of the designated sites in our control being in
favourable or unfavourable recovering condition classes by 2012.
D&B
7.10
Continue to take account of the potential impact of management proposals on
neighbouring designated of NATURA sites in forest plans and operational plans
with the aim of protecting and, where appropriate, enhancing their status.
Increasing awareness and improving knowledge, integration and co-ordination for better decision making
D&B
7.11
Promote the profile and awareness of biodiversity requirements during
stakeholder engagements, school visits and forest plan consultations. Encourage
communities and volunteers to be actively involved in biodiversity projects.
D&B
7.12
Build on the existing osprey viewing projects to further develop wildlife
watching and interpretation on the national forest estate.
D&B
7.13Prepare a district biodiversity plan, based on the national template.
D&B
7.14
Continue to update and develop the district knowledge on the biodiversity present in the
forest, its status and requirements. Maintain the geographic information system records layer.
Geodiversity
D&B
7.15
Work with Scottish Natural Heritage and other partners e.g. GeoD, to
identify important geodiversity sites on the national forest estate and
maintain and enhance them through the forest plan process.
Key theme seven: biodiversity
59 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Section three
Section three: delivery and monitoring
Cl imate change is the b iggest threat fac ing the p lanet and Scot t ish forest r y is p lay ing i ts par t in help ing tack le c l imate change. Trees have a s igni f icant ro le in reducing the af fec ts o f c l imate change as they natural ly lock up carbon.
60 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Delivery will be based on the creation of a rolling three-year business plan identifying resources required
to deliver work programmes identified in forest plans, other local plans and emergent issues. Detailed
work plans are prepared for all significant elements of the programme. In sensitive sites, this often
requires further consultation with relevant stakeholders. These are normally prepared 18-24 months
before actual work commences. Work is delivered in accordance with a series of guidance notes listed in
Appendix four, and all delivery adheres to the operating principles detailed in the strategic plan for the
national forest estate.
Following approval of the business plan, the
work programmes and allocated resources are
confirmed with the local staff who then organise
the work and monitor delivery against agreed
timescales, costs and quality standards.
Monitoring forms an integral part of sustainable
forest management and is regarded as an essential
tool for improving practice. It is in-built into
almost every aspect of management from financial
to operational, to environmental, to health and
safety, to recreational, to landscape, through:
Section three: delivery and monitoring
Context
Section three
61 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
• national policies e.g. UK Forestry Standard,
Forestry Commission People Strategy
• memoranda and instructions e.g.
monitoring of stocking densities according
to Operational Guidance Booklet 4
Two types of monitoring carried out in
the district - formal and informal.
Formal monitoring is concerned with
areas where we have legal, moral or policy
obligations to fulfil and often also audited
by external parties. Important areas
covered under this heading include:
• monitoring of overall standards (e.g.
compliance with forest plans, UK
Woodland Assurance Standard, etc.)
• conservation monitoring
• archaeological monitoring
• health and safety monitoring
• business plan monitoring
We also have to monitor against the indicators
identified in the Forest Enterprise Scotland strategic
plan for the national forest estate. These will then
be amalgamated across all ten forest districts
to determine collective progress in delivering
against the Scottish Forestry Strategy. These results
will be published annually at national level.
Informal monitoring is concerned primarily with
the day-to-day management of the district work
programme and is carried out primarily in-house.
Informal monitoring include activities such as:
• contract progress
• site visits
• personal budget monitoring
• work programme monitoring
• time management
The results from this informal monitoring have a
variety of both long and short-term uses, and are
a useful tool in improving our management skills.
They:
• are analysed and the recommendations
fed back, where appropriate,
into our planning process
• help to influence future management of the
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.
Section three
Section three: delivery and monitoring
62 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Strategic plan 2009-2013 - Appendices
The use of wood as a fuel wi l l he lp reduce harmful greenhouse emiss ions and we are work ing hard to promote wood fuel developments .
Appendices
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
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Produce an updated
periodic forecast of timber
production.
Yes This has been reviewed annually:
• annual production currently
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.
Yes
Make sure that the supply
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.
Yes Achieved in all years. Yes
70 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Continue to enter into
long-term contracts
where appropriate
with our major timber
customers and Forest
Enterprise Scotland
contractors, aiming to
commit approximately
50% of the district’s timber
production to this method
of sale.
Yes Achieved in general with ongoing
review as to the appropriate
mix and quantity required to
provide our customers with the
supply base they require, while
maximising Forest Enterprise
Scotland marketing needs.
Yes
Provide opportunities
for the development
of appropriate new
businesses on the national
forest estate, with specific
reference to timber and
bio fuel products.
Partial Bio fuel options ranging from
small-scale heating to large power
generation (Lockerbie E.ON plant)
are all being actively supported
and developed. This work will
continue.
Yes
Review district thinning
policy during 2005
to incorporate new
thinking and develop
implementation plans to
maximise the thinnable
area of the estate.
Partial Thinning review undertaken with
implementation plans being
formulated during 2006/07
Yes
71 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Move a lower proportion
of timber by public road.
Partial We have successfully planned
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).
Yes
72 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Make sure that every
forest is part of an
approved forest plan by
2008.
Partial Currently 94% of target, with
firm programme to meet
the 100% cover by 2008.
Yes
Complete the survey of
ancient woodland sites in
the district and draw up a
management programme
by end-2005 to maximise
environmental gains
from restoration of the
broadleaved woodland.
Partial Survey completed with action
plans being implemented.
Yes
Make sure that quality
timber crops are created
for the future by achieving
target re-stocking densities
(OGB4) at planting by
planting suitable species
and provenances and
protecting them from
damage by mammals,
insects and fungi.
Partial Improvements to OGB4 targets are
ongoing with stocking densities
being affected by adjacency issues
re 1.4 m rule. This remains a
priority to address.
Species choice is driven by local
policy.
Increased wildlife management
resources over the period have
resulted in acceptable levels
of damage being achieved,
with resultant crop health
improvements.
Yes
73 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Improve age class diversity through planning of clearfell areas, to achieve minimum 2 m height difference between adjacent coupes.
Partial Results are in keeping with expectations regarding the difficulties of restructuring even-aged first rotation forests on wet soils.
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.
Yes
74 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Monitor all crops to an
appropriate level, using
the methods described
in the relevant district
policy statements to
make sure that causes of
damage can be identified
and controlled by the
appropriate method.
Yes Ongoing monitoring is standard
practice.
Wildlife management targets
are now at acceptable levels and
resources are being transferred to
support other conservation and
protection objectives.
Yes
75 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders Forest DistrictScottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 2: To create a diverse forest resource for the future
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Manage all sites of special
scientific interest in
accordance with agreed
plans endorsed by
Scottish Natural Heritage
and other conservation
agencies where
appropriate.
Yes The clearance of timber from the
major Longbridgemuir raised bog
restoration (417 ha) as part of the
EU supported project has been
completed.
Yes
Manage all existing
scheduled ancient
monuments (SAMs) in
accordance with agreed
plans endorsed by
Historic Scotland (HS).
All existing SAMs to have
management agreements
in place by 2001.
Additional SAMs to be
covered within 12 months
of notification.
Yes All 22 SAMs have agreed
management plans in place. The
past few years have seen some
SAMs being rescheduled by HS
and others being scheduled.
Yes
76 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Continue to develop the Solway Mosses lowland raised bog restoration In partnership with Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), Scottish Wildlife Trust and others, via an EU LIFE III bid.
Partial Phase 1 restoration via the EU LIFE II bid was completed in 2003, with ongoing maintenance taking place since. Currently reviewing long-term maintenance of the existing 417 ha site and considering with SNH the 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.
Yes
Review draft potential priority red squirrel areas with relevant stakeholders by summer 2005.
Yes Priority woodland areas have been agreed with formal management guidance plans being written 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.
Yes
77 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Improve forest landscape, particularly in Solway national scenic area.
Partial Good progress has been made in opening up views hidden for 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.
Yes
Increase the area committed to low impact silviculture and improve management techniques.
Partial The area of low impact silviculture has been raised significantly over the period. 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.
Yes
78 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Seek ways for generating new opportunities for local employment through the provision of recreational facilities and specialist use of the forest, including mountain biking, car rallying, 4x4 safaris and filming.
Partial Initial projects including 7stanes, Countryside Trails and Dog Sport Scotland have been implemented with ongoing work to expand and develop delivery.
Scottish RAC Rally has contributed £1+ million/year into the local economy over the past four years. Another five rallies and car testing last year contributed lesser amounts.
Yes
Prepare a comprehensive recreation strategy, audit all current formal recreational provision and improve, upgrade or remove formal facilities based on an analysis of the above.
Yes Strategy developed 2001 and has recently been updated with draft currently undergoing discussion.
Yes
Increase the area committed to continuous cover forestry and improve management techniques.
Partial Policy and delivery of this evolving management regime is ongoing, with potential areas being identified via forest design plans and specific trained staff resource.
Yes
Increase awareness of, and facilitate involvement in, the management of the forest by local communities and communities of interest.
Partial Cairnhead Community Forest Trust, Dalbeattie Forest Community Partnership and many other links at local level are helping deliver this objective, within available resources.
Yes
79 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders Forest DistrictScottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 4: To create opportunities for more people to enjoy trees, woods and forests
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Meet requests for educational visits to assist teachers and others in delivering the national curriculum and other educational needs.
Yes The district is unique in terms of the wide range of forest resources and experience we are able to offer customers. The forest is now being used an outdoor classroom 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)
Yes
80 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders Forest DistrictScottish Forestry Strategy Priority for Action 4: To create opportunities for more people to enjoy trees, woods and forests
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Provide opportunities
for the development
of appropriate new
businesses in association
with Forest Enterprise
Scotland-managed
woodlands.
Partial The opportunity for tourism-
based businesses to benefit from
the woodlands has increased
significantly following the
eradication of foot and mouth
disease. We are actively engaged
with VisitScotland, Scottish
Enterprise Dumfries & Galloway,
Dumfries & Galloway Council and
others to maximise this delivery,
e.g. 7stanes, Countryside Trails, Dog
Sport Scotland.
Yes
Seek to involve
communities across a
range of activities in a
manner consistent with
the nature and level of
interest expressed by
communities and their
current capabilities.
Partial A number of partnerships have
developed over the past 10 years,
notably Cairnhead Community
Forest Trust, Dalbeattie Forest
Community Partnership, Ae
Youth Eye, 7stanes and Dog Sport
Scotland, etc.
We will continue to develop and
expand all community and other
links as resources allow.
Yes
81 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Strike a reasonable balance in relation to developments on the national forest estate between the aspirations of local communities and national policy priorities to foster community involvement, responsiveness and distinctiveness of forest management at local level, within the wider policy framework.
Partial
Ongoing developments in relation to renewable energy (e.g. Harestanes, Clyde windfarms, bio fuel E.ON) social housing (Ae Village, Moffat) and other benefits will continue to be progressed.
We will continue to develop appropriate projects with outside partners where communities are not prepared or able to become fully involved.
Yes
Enhance opportunities for health and enjoyment in the forest environment
Yes We continue to develop and work with a number of partnerships in 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
Yes
82 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Work with our customers
to improve the quality,
efficiency and safety of
all forest operations and
recreational activities
to ensure they comply
with health and safety
legislation and industry
best practice.
Yes Health and Safety standards are a
high priority, with constant review
of policy and actions. Increasing
recreational use, particularly in
terms of mountain biking, is a
challenge.
Yes
Manage all woodlands
in accordance with
the UK Woodland
Assurance Standard.
Yes Ongoing. Constant review and
improvement of standards taking
place to ensure we meet and often
exceed objectives.
Yes
83 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders Forest District
To maintain an efficient and effective organisation
Appendices
Target description and
planned achievement date
Target
achieved
(yes/no/
partial)?
Comments Should this target be
updated and carried
forward to new
district strategic plan?
Manage impact (positive
and negative) of
information technology.
Partial Computer infrastructure and
staff capability has been greatly
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.
Yes
Engage staff in district
policy development
and delivery to ensure
ownership of our aims.
Partial Ae Forest District Steering
Committee, communications and
briefing meetings all aim to deliver
this. But there is always room for
improvement.
Yes
84 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendix two: Evaluation of achievements (1999 – 2006) under previous strategic plan – original Dumfries and Borders Forest District
To maintain an efficient and effective organisation
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
• 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.
Appendices
Appendix three: glossary for forest policy context diagram:
86 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendices
Appendix four:List of local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes
Ae Forest
District
Scottish
Borders
Forest District
Dumfries
& Borders
Forest District
Thematic plans Date
produced
Date
produced
Date
produced
Revision
planned*
Comments
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
woodland sites strategy
2000 2007
Pollution control and waste
management plan
2008 2008 2010
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
87 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
* Revisions may be brought forward if there is a significant change in policy or circumstances
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.
Appendices
Appendix four:List of local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes
Ae Forest
District
Scottish
Borders
Forest District
Dumfries
& Borders
Forest District
Management plans Date
produced
Revision
planned*
Comments
Business plan 2009 annual
Forest plans various 10 years 64 plans in
total
Schedule Ancient
Monument plans
various 5 years 51 plans in
total
Shoot plans various 1 years 22 plans in
total
Site of Special Scientific
Interest management plans
various 5 years 6 plans in total
(including 1
special area of
conservation)
88 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
* Revisions may be brought forward if there is a significant change in policy or circumstances
Appendices
Appendix four:List of local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes
Ae Forest
District
Scottish
Borders
Forest District
Dumfries
& Borders
Forest District
Guidance notes Date
produced
Date
produced
Date
produced
Revision
planned*
Comments
Broadleaves 2008 2007
Chemical use 2001 2008 Includes
strategy for
reducing usage
Child protection
Complaints and enquiries 2008
Community involvement/
stakeholder consultation
2008 2007/8
Cultural heritage 2008
Deadwood 2008 2008
Fallow strategy 2008
Fencing 2008
Goat management plan 2007
Grey squirrel 2008
Illegal/Unauthorised use of
the forest
2008
Information Technology
strategy
Invasive species 2008
Low impact silvicultural
systems
2008 2001
Native woodland creation
Natural reserves 2008 2008
Non-timber forest
products
2008
89 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendices
Appendix four:List of local thematic plans, management plans and guidance notes
Ae Forest
District
Scottish
Borders
Forest District
Dumfries
& Borders
Forest District
Guidance notes Date
produced
Date
produced
Date
produced
Revision
planned*
Comments
Permissions 2008
Planning and managing
open space
2008 2008
Production forecast 2007
Forest ops and protected
species
2008
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
Score
Harvesting surplus (clearfell and thinning)
Based on 2006 market conditions
(Note: 10 year horizon for harvesting activity, if harvesting
is expected in that period then use best estimate of expected
profit or loss/tonne. A block with no potential for commercial
harvesting should score 0.)
>£5/tonne profit
<£5/tonne profit
Break even
<£5/tonne loss
>£5/tonne loss
10
6
3
1
0
Establishment and maintenance costs
(Note: establishment and maintenance to include all expenditure
up to year 10 needed to establish crops. Remember to include
whole forest design plan issues such as boundary fencing
maintenance costs.)
Lower than the district
average
District average
Higher than the district
average
4
2
0
Capital road cost
New and upgrade over next 10 years
(Note: a block with no potential for commercial harvesting and,
therefore, no plans for capital road investment should score 0.)
Fully roaded
< 2 km to build
2 km to < 5 km to build
5 km to < 10 km to build
10 km and over to build
10
7
5
2
0
Other income generation
(Note - other income to include estates development, recreation,
etc. Development opportunities that have a signed option
agreement can be included in the current economic analysis.)
>£250k pa
£101-250k pa
£51-100k pa
£11-50k pa
£1-10k pa
<£1k pa
10
6
3
2
1
0
Economic scoring
92 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendices
Appendix five:Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Score
Conservation designations
(Note: the presence of the designation is not sufficient to merit a
high score. The forest design plan must be positively contributing
to the enhancement of the site condition relative to the notified
conservation interest. Area in Ha relates to area in Forest
Enterprise Scotland management.)
SAC/SSSI >100 ha
UK HAP > 50%
UK HAP 20-50%
SAC/SSSI 20-100 ha
SAC/SSSI <20 ha or HAP <20%
No designations or HAPs
10
6
4
3
1
0
SAP species
(Note: as highlighted in Forestry Commission Scotland
biodiversity strategy – red squirrel, capercaillie, black grouse,
pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly, chequered skipper butterfly,
juniper, Scottish wood ant, Wilson’s pouchwort, twinflower, small
cow wheat.)
> 5 species
4 - 5 species
3 species
2 species
1 species
None
10
8
6
3
1
0
Native tree species
(Note: native species – this refers to tree species cover of the
forested portion of the forest design plan unit. Anticipates drive
for greater reliance on native species from Scottish Forestry
Strategy and Environment Peer Review Group.)
51-100%
21-50%
11-20%
6-10%
1-5%
<1%
10
6
4
2
1
0
Non-market benefits scoring
93 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendices
Appendix five:Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Score
WIAT
(Note – only woodlands falling into the Forestry Commission
Scotland woods in and around towns criteria can score any
points.)
Large population (>5000)/well
developed facilities
Large population (>5000)/
minimal facilities
Small population (2000-
5000)/well developed facilities
Small population (2000-
5000)/minimal facilities
N/A
10
8
4
2
0
Community engagement (including schools) Signed agreement
User group/active
participation
Consultation/information
No engagement
5
3
1
0
Recreation
(Note – visitor numbers must be verifiable from counters and/or
intercept surveys or be based on sound local knowledge.)
>250k visits pa
101-250k visits pa
51-100k visits pa
11-50k visits pa
1-10k visits pa
<1k visits pa
No visits
10
8
5
3
2
1
0
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
94 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendices
Appendix five:Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Score
Habitat network
(*Core habitat area defined as regionally significant (>10,000
ha), relatively contiguous, contains at least 20% native species
in woodland element and/or at least 80% native species in open
land element.)
Significant component (>25%)
of an existing core habitat
area*
Component (10-25%) of an
existing core habitat area
Contributor to functional
connectivity of (or from) the
core habitat area or important
local habitat network
Little or no existing
contribution to habitat
networks
5
3
2
0
Landscape National Park – helps create
sense of place
National Scenic Area – helps
create sense of place
Positive backdrop to
significant town (>10,000)
National Park – positive
contributor
NSA/Designed landscapes –
positive contributor
Positive backdrop to town
(>2000)/ major tourism route
No positive impact in the
landscape
10
8
5
3
2
1
0
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
95 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendices
Score
Thinnable
(Note: thinnable area – the area of forest which has been
thinned or is programmed for thinning in the next 10 years. This
essentially reflects the amount of flexibility available to apply low
impact silvicultural systems and as a consequence deliver non-
market benefits.)
51-100%
21-50%
5-20%
<5%
5
3
2
0
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
96 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
Appendices
Appendix five:Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
97 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Appendix five:Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
98 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Appendix five:Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
99 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
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
Appendices
Appendix five:Portfolio Analysis scoring on the national forest estate
Non-market benefits scoring (continued)
100 | Strategic plan 2009 - 2013
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50
EC
ON
OM
IC B
EN
EF
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NON-MARKET BENEFITS
****** FOREST DISTRICT - PORTFOLIO ANALYSIS SCORING BY FOREST BLOCK
Forest Block or FDP
St rategic P lan
ContactDumfries and Borders Forest DistrictAe VillageParkgateDumfries DG1 1QB
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Published by - Forestry Commission Scotland - December 2009© Crown Copyright 2009
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