Ralph Peters, Managing Partner and Sam Booth, Associate, Forestry at Bidwells discuss some of the important aspects to consider for anyone considering a move into forestry.

Farming is adapting because it needs to adapt. I know that’s not a welcome nor new phrase but the reality is we all have to adapt as the climatic, political and social landscape changes, so must the physical one.

One area of adaptation all manner of landowners are embracing is the creation of woodland – for myriad reasons.

There is perceived conflict between agriculture and forestry at the moment in the squeezed middle that is neither upland or lowland with land values for planting far outstripping agricultural values.

This does not help smooth the journey towards the Scottish Government’s woodland cover targets. But we must remember why there are targets in place: we need to reduce our reliance on imported timber and we need to make an impact on combatting climate change.

Carbon, as we know, is a major driver for new woodland but so is the need for commercial self-reliance. It is worth noting that whilst new ‘commercial’ conifer woodlands may not be eligible for monetising carbon credits they are still sequestering a significant amount of carbon, much of which is locked up in timber products.

Woodland comes in all shapes and sizes and the industry has moved on from the uniform rectangular blocks of single species commercial woodland which appeared in our landscapes from the 1970s. And commercial conifer plantations are not devoid of biodiversity.

The dense foliage provides cover from the wind and rain for larger mammals, while birds of prey and smaller species, such as crossbill, tree creeper, coal tit and siskin are known to use Sitka spruce for nesting. And anyone who watched David Attenborough’s recent series will remember the flocks of starling roosting in a similar plantation.

The UK Forestry Standard, which has been around for 25 years, requires the composition of a compliant forest to comprise the following:

• No more than 75% is a single species.

• 10% open space

• 10% other species/ ground managed for environmental objectives.

• 5% native broadleaves

This means that 15-25% of all forests must be managed for objectives other than timber production.

The process of applying for planting approval and felling approval is thorough, requiring detailed consideration of landscape design, social and environmental impact, and public access to name a few of the factors.

More of our land will become forested but it has to be ‘the right tree in the right place’ contributing to a mixed-use landscape devised through integrated thinking and a holistic approach to land use.

Most landowners want to maximise the potential of their land, and increasingly this is encouraging them to look at alternative land use or diversification across a wider land holding. Clarity on support is essential for farmers to buy into the concept of woodland planting that works with, not against, agricultural practices and lifestyles. Planting woodlands of all types can help farmers and landowners realise value from their property, provide diversification, and easily demonstrate their immeasurable role in society’s efforts to mitigate climate change.

The type of woodland you plant on your landholding will depend on what your short, medium to long-term plans are. It’s a keen point of discussion for inter-generational farming enterprises which may be scoping various options including the planting or the sale of land for a commercial timber crop, generating carbon credits, the values of planting shelterbelts to support wildlife, woodland for water attenuation or for amenity value.

When looking at woodland creation each of these options requires various considerations before a workable planting schedule can be designed and delivered, including:

• Advice – Many farmers and landowners will need advice. The forestry industry has become increasingly consolidated in recent years and independent advice will be key to farmers and landowners identifying maximum benefit.

• Your objectives/requirements – a holistic view is required, particularly if not planting a whole farm

• Land values – what are they now and how will this change if I plant woodland?

• Cash flow – short/medium/long-term, grants are paid after planting

• Access – If retaining agricultural activity will this be affected by planting? If land is to be sold what access rights are granted/retained?

• Grants and funding/approvals – all are subject to eligibility criteria and approval times vary from months to years depending on scheme size and nature.

• New markets – carbon markets have been emerging for a few years and there are many new advisors. An informed adviser with demonstrable knowledge and experience is critical.

For many, when considering the sale of or change of land use of your largest and often long-held asset it is worth engaging the services of a well-established firm with a broad spectrum of expertise to look at your landholding as a whole, truly understand your commercial and personal goals and to advise on what tree fits where.