A Nuffield Farming report has called for immediate action to be taken in protecting UK forestry from drought and fire.

Byron Braithwaite published the report, titled ‘Creating Forests That Thrive in a Changing Climate: Drought and Fire Resilience’, after travelling to Canada, France Spain and New Zealand to observe their forest management practices.

In his report Mr Braithwaite stated that he aimed to observe forests in drier climates to identify techniques that increase resilience within young trees when faced with drought and to understand best practice for dealing with fire management. Citing the lack of work currently being done within this area as a reason for his investigation.

On drought tolerance and resilience, he said: “A critical factor for long-term resilience is tree breeding for drought tolerance and diversification of species.

“However, current funding for public and private breeding programmes, particularly for native broadleaf trees, is insufficient. Implementing a government levy on timber sales, similar to the French model, could provide a sustainable funding mechanism.”

Mr Braithwaite also explores the importance of optimising planting and cultivation, large-scale data collection for genotype, site-specific planting assessment, and the potential of mycorrhizal fungi to enhance nutrient and moisture uptake.

he said: “Given the fragmented mixed land use environment in the UK, the risk of large-scale wildfires is lower compared to other regions of the world. However, targeted vegetation control in high-public use areas, around critical infrastructure, and near sensitive ecological areas remains critical.

“Controlled grazing, low-intensity fires, and mechanical methods can be effective tools for managing fuel loads without compromising biodiversity.”

In his report Mr Braithwaite suggested that public awareness in this area was also lacking and that targeting children using social media and digital channels would spread education on mitigating fire risk.

he concluded, stating: “Continuous improvement in traditional forestry practices, increased investment in tree breeding for drought tolerance, and proactive fire management strategies are important in ensuring the long-term health and resilience of UK forests and our society as a whole.”

The Nuffield Farming Scholarships Trust is a registered charity provides funding to passionate people with the potential to make positive change in food, farming, horticulture and rural industries.

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