Woodland Strategy 11.34 Mb - the Dorset AONB

The Dorset Trees,
Woods and
Forest Strategy

Acknowledgements
This work has been produced by David Rees, Dorset Woodlink
Officer. Dorset Woodlink is hosted by the Dorset Area of
Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Dorset Woodlink Partnership:
County Tree Arboricultural Office
Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs AONB
Dorset AONB
Dorset Biodiversity Partnership
Dorset Coppice Group
Dorset County Council
Dorset Wildlife Trust
Forestry Commission
Forestry Enterprise
Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group
Greenwood Tree Project
Natural England
Thanks to all the organisations,
individuals and committees who have
contributed towards the development
of this work. Particular thanks to the
Dorset Woodlink Steering Group who have
helped guide the ongoing development of this work:
Tom Munro – Dorset AONB
Andrew Pollard – Dorset Wildlife Trust
Bruce Rothnie – Forest Enterprise
Byron Harris – North Dorset District Council
David Blake – Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs AONB
Emma Brawn – Greenwood Tree Project
Mandy Joyce – Dorset Coppice Group
Mark Durk – Forestry Commission
Melanie Heath – Natural England
Pete Moors – Dorset Coppice Group
Richard Preston – Forestry Commission
Sarah R Bentley – Dorset AONB
Sean Cooch – Natural England
Tim Bagwell - FWAG
Front images:
Dorset wooded landscape © David Rees
Woodland horse riders © Forestry Commission
Speckled Wood © David Rees
Bluebell beech woodland © David Rees
Oak and Douglas Fir timber framed building © Tom Munro
Designed by Origin Designs Ltd.
All maps are based upon Ordnance Survey material with the permission
of Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty's Stationery
Office. © Crown Copyright 2006. Unauthorised reproduction infringes
Crown copyright and may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings.
© Dorset County Council. LA 100019790. 2007.

Contents
Section 1
Key Themes 28
Executive Summary 5
Section 5
Introduction 7
The Future 34
Section 2
Vision Statement 9
Section 6
Recommendation and Priority Actions 37
Aims of Strategy 10
Section 7
References/Bibliography 42
Policies 11
Further Sources of Information 44
Section 3
Dorset’s Trees, Woods and Forests 13
Appendix 1 – Key Strategic Links - Policies and Strategies 46
Current Woodland & Tree Resource 20
Appendix 2 – Description of Key Issues 50
Section 4
Appendix 3 – Key Stakeholders 57
Key Strategic Links 27

Hazel Hurdle by Pete Moors, Shalimar Design

Executive Summary
Section 1
5
The vital contribution of Dorset’s trees, woods and forests for landscape, biodiversity,
recreation, culture and heritage will only be sustained and improved through an integrated
strategic approach. Their environmental, social and economic outputs will be maximised
through planned and coordinated management providing opportunities to meet the needs
of the future.
Honeysuckle berries © Forestry Commission
Key issues for consideration are:
• The right tree in the right place – highlight the necessity for targeting specific locations
where there’s an identified need, and choosing the right sites, management and species to
deliver a range of social, economic and environmental benefits
• To provide a focus for the future of “Dorset’s Trees, Woods and Forests”
• To protect existing trees, woods and forests whilst at the same time identifying the need
for appropriate open space management through tree removal
• To encourage access, recreation and education opportunities
• To raise awareness of the need to manage invasive species (such as deer and
rhododendron) in an appropriate manner
• To reduce isolation and fragmentation of wooded habitats
• To improve opportunities for climate change mitigation and adaptation
• Promote the place of timber and wood products in the present and future economy
• Ensure trees and woods are fully considered in future developments by promoting new
planting where it fulfils environmental, social and economic gains
• Utilise the woodland resource to provide a sustainable, renewable energy resource
• Promote the multi-benefit role played by ancient and veteran trees, hedgerow trees and orchards
• Promote benefits of trees, woods and forests and their role in rural and urban environments
Dorset’s trees make up part of the landscape’s fabric; are important habitats for wildlife; are
intrinsically part of the historic environment as well as revealing past human activity; provide
us with a sustainable source of building materials and fuel; and are sites of sporting and
recreational interest. They can also be a cause of negative effects when poorly sited or
poorly managed .
The trees, woods and forests of Dorset are very much a product of human activity and as
such provide an insight into the historic landscape of Dorset. They have a long tradition of
wide rangingl benefits. In this document we look to the future to identify how they can
contribute to challenges that lie ahead. Climate change is now a major concern, rural
industries are in economic decline, many woodland species are showing population decline
and demands on land for housing and recreation is increasing. In Dorset, trees, woods and
forests have an important role to play in mitigating these effects. They can aid rural
economic recovery through the provision of timber for construction and fuel to heat homes.
They can act as carbon sinks and provide opportunities for leisure and recreation thus
improving mental and physical health. They also have an important role to play in urban
landscapes, reducing pollution and noise levels, providing shade to properties and increasing
people’s sense of wellbeing.
This County strategy has been developed with reference to relevant regional, national
and international strategies and policies. It is intended to inform and influence local
decision-makers: local authority planning departments, woodland owners and managers,
community/parish planning and developers.
Mountain biking © Forestry Commission
The strategy has been compiled by the Dorset Woodlink Project, the first county-wide
tree, woodland and forest initiative in Dorset. Since its inception in 2006 the project has
successfully brought together a wide range of organisations, groups and individuals involved
or interested in safeguarding and promoting the many opportunities trees, woods and
forests provide. The production of the Trees, Woods and Forests strategy sets out the
actions for the Woodlink Partnership over the next 10 years.

Introduction
Section 1
7
Trees, woods and forests, in the right place, can make a significant difference
to the conservation of biodiversity and quality of people’s lives. This can improve
the places in which people live and work, provide economic benefits and give
a sense of identity and ownership to communities, both urban and rural.
Harvesting oak © Forestry Commission
Moors Valley country park © David Rees
Despite the loss and inappropriate management of some trees, forests and woods, Dorset still has
a significant asset that needs to be managed. Today’s trees, woods and forests can meet a range
of social, economic and environmental objectives. They provide environments resilient to climate
change, places for exercise and healthy living, and can aid the development of low carbon
economies. Utilising Dorset’s trees, woods and forests can provide a number of services,
environmentally, socially and economically, making their future management more important
than perhaps it was in the past.
Long tailed tit © David Rees
This Strategy, “Dorset’s Trees, Woods and Forests”, is the first of its kind for Dorset and the South
West. It describes the historical associations of trees, woods and forests within the county and
identifies key challenges and opportunities affecting their future. Accepting these challenges
and taking forward the opportunities to make our trees, woods and forests productive,
biodiverse, economic, healthy, sustainable and attractive in the years to come will require
strong partnerships and leadership. It will mean private woodland owners, conservation
agencies, businesses, community groups, local and central Government and the public working
together, providing for and sharing the benefits that trees, woods and forests have to offer.
The woodlands and trees of Dorset provide a distinctive and historical backdrop to the county.
For centuries they have provided tangible benefits to the community and wildlife, and are a part
of the cultural and historical identity of the county. They are an intrinsic part of the landscape
and many of the county’s woodlands and veteran trees were a vital part of the rural economy
and of great social significance. To secure a sound, sustainable future for Dorset’s woodlands,
we need to continue growing, managing and planting trees for high quality timber and combine
this with wider social, environmental and historic benefits.
Veteran trees, ancient woodlands, forests, orchards and historic parklands characterise many
areas of Dorset’s landscape. For centuries they have played an important role in the cultural,
social and economic activities of the people of Dorset. The interactions between people and
trees have created many different and varied woodland habitats and landscapes, making them
unique and special to the people who visit, live and work around them.
The purpose of the strategy is to be the first point of focus for the future of Dorset’s trees,
woods and forests. It identifies how the county can improve the management of trees, woods
and forests whilst working towards achieving social, environmental and economic objectives.
The strategy will contribute to the delivery of Local and National Government agendas on
environment, sustainable communities, renewable energy, land use planning and health.
Traditionally, woodland and forestry management takes place over extended periods of time,
in many instances over 60 years and this strategy is set within this context. However many of
the subjects covered within this strategy alter over much shorter periods of time, so for action
planning and implementation the timescale of this strategy is 10 years, with a mid-term review
at five years.

Maple Leaves © David Rees

Vision Statement
Section 2
9
This Dorset Trees, Woods and Forests Strategy incorporates the aims of national, regional and
county strategies and frameworks including the Government’s strategy for Trees, Woodlands
and Forests, the Woodfuel Strategy for England, the South West Regional Woodland &
Forestry Framework and Woodfuel Framework.
The vision for Dorset’s trees, woods and forests is…
The vital contribution of Dorset’s trees, woods and
forests for landscape, biodiversity, recreation, culture
and heritage will only be sustained and improved
through an integrated, strategic approach. Their
environmental, social and economic outputs will
be maximised through planned and coordinated
management providing opportunities to meet the
needs of the future.
Diverse woodland landscape © David Rees

Section 2
Aims of Strategy
10
Outdoor education © Forestry Commission
The aims of the Dorset Trees, Woods and Forests Strategy are to:
• identify and encourage appropriate access, health and tourism opportunities;
• bring more woods and forests into active management and improve their quality and
extent;
• increase woods and forests open for public access and recreation;
• bring together policy and action from multiple interests in one place provide a framework
for integrated action for Dorset’s trees, woods and forests;
• provide the first ever focus on Dorset's trees, woods and forests assets and the benefits
they can provide to ensure their continued contribution in terms of social, environmental
and economic benefits;
• promote the value and contribution of trees, woods and forests to key decision makers
e.g. woodland owners, planners, politicians, developers and health services;
• provide an evidence base for identifying local priorities and actions;
• support and complement business development through encouraging new wood product
markets, such as woodfuel, identifying potential carbon off-setting schemes and
mitigating local developments.
Mixed species woodland © Forestry Commission

Policies
Note: the policies below are not in priority order.
Section 2
11
Environmental
Ensure that planting and management maximises opportunities for local biodiversity and landscapes whilst identifying opportunities and constraints for
the conservation of archaeological features, soil and water resources.
Maintain and enhance Ancient Semi-Natural Woodlands (ASNW) and restore Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites (PAWS).
Address the causes of woodland decline and promote the active management of trees, woods and forests to maximise biodiversity gain, taking into
consideration any historical/archaeological features.
Provide guidance for the management of trees, woods and forests on non-woodland habitats to ensure that appropriate opportunities for open habitat
restoration are taken
Reverse woodland and habitat fragmentation through coordinated planning and management and a landscape scale approach to biodiversity management.
Increase coordinated management of deer, grey squirrels, and other damaging invasive species to prevent the deterioration of woodland habitats.
Protect trees in parklands, orchards, urban areas, hedgerows, wood pasture, veteran trees and other in-field trees to ensure their continued survival.
Reduce the effects of climate change by new plantings to aid carbon offsetting, considering appropriate tree species to address the threats and opportunities
of climate change and encouraging the active management of unmanaged woodlands and forests.
Social
Hazel coppice
with standards
© Forestry
Commission
Use trees and woodlands to help minimise the impact of developments in built up areas (e.g. noise reduction, pollution reduction, amenity planting and recreation areas).
Identify and encourage appropriate access and health opportunities through green infrastructure schemesand improving access for people to use and enjoy
woodlands in ways that benefit physical and mental health, education and learning.
Create urban and community woodlands which frame and connect urban and rural areas, improving the quality of a place.
Maintain competent woodland skills base by promoting and facilitating appropriate skills training.
Increase people’s awareness and understanding of the cultural, archaeological and historical assets of trees, woods and forests in Dorset.
Economic
Encourage appropriate, sustainable, revenue-generating leisure activities.
Support existing traditional markets through improved infrastructure and promotion of locally produced goods.
Identify and develop new wood product markets and establish a cooperative approach to add value to timber products.
New urban
woodland
© Forestry
Commission
Work with public and private sector partners to target development of the woodfuel industry in Dorset by identifying potential ‘clusters’ of users and
‘woodfuel reserves’ within the county.
Encourage woodland management and help businesses promote woodland products.
Increase take-up of accreditation of local woodland products produced in a sustainable and sensitive manner through Direct from Dorset, Woodcert, FSC
and other appropriate bodies.
Felling ©
Forestry
Commission

Cardinal Beetle © Forestry Commission

Dorset’s Trees,
Woods and Forests
Section 3
13
Why Trees, Woods and Forests are important
Trees, woods and forests and their associated benefits
(biodiversity, woodfuel, timber for construction, social
wellbeing, etc) have the ability to contribute to the
improvement of 21 of the Quality of Life indicators for
the South West and 39 of the 68 UK national indicators
including protecting natural resources and creating
sustainable communities (Willis 2004). In addition, the
area of woodland in the UK, the protection and
expansion of ancient and semi-natural woodland and
the sustainable management of woodland are national
indicators in their own right. Woodlands, particularly
ancient woodlands are significant archaeological
remains and should be conserved as such. Woodland
can be a major contributor not only to UK sustainable
development policy but also to policies on health,
Yellow Archangel © David Rees
education, social inclusion, rural development and
biodiversity. The Woodland Trust and National Forest objectives highlight the demand for
new woodlands to deliver environmental and socio-economic benefits.
Examples of how trees, woods and forests can contribute include:
• Biodiversity – woodlands, forests and trees provide habitats for a great variety of animal
and plant species, many of which would not survive without them. In particular, ancient
woodlands are enormously important as the plants and animal species have evolved and
developed with continuous woodland cover or traditional woodland practices such
as coppicing.
• Landscape – trees and woodlands form an important component of the landscape.
Wooded landscapes, such as the Marshwood Vale, either directly or indirectly contribute
to our quality of life. They help give landscapes a sense of place, identity, quality and
security which in turn promotes enjoyment, access and economic return.
• Climate Change Mitigation – forests and woodlands play a vital role in the absorption of
carbon emissions. The amount of carbon sequestered is dependent on their management
and wood can be used as a carbon-lean energy source. Tree species, thinning, productivity
and yield class are all factors that need to be considered in the future. Woodfuel is a
growing market in Dorset.
• Economics – forests and woodlands contribute to the strength of local, regional and
national economies in many different ways. Directly this is achieved through timber
production and processing, employment opportunities, local products, rural development,
and land regeneration; indirectly through landscape benefits which attract tourist revenue
and local visitors. Declining income from broadleaved woodlands over the last 20 years
has resulted in a massive reduction in resources available for work in woodlands of all
kinds. However, forestry is one of a few industries based on renewable resources, and has
a vital future role in a more sustainable, low-carbon economy.
• Access & Recreation – woodlands and forests are some of the most popular visitor
destinations in the UK. Activities such as walking, cycling and riding can provide health
benefits as well as enjoying a sense of tranquillity and well being to local populations.
Woods and forests are increasingly being managed for a wide range of activities such as
shooting, mountain biking, walking and wildlife watching, creating revenue for
landowners and associated businesses.
• Education – the woodland environment provides an ideal opportunity to learn about the
relationship between humans and the natural environment, and can offer all manner of
cross-curricular learning opportunities. This helps develop an awareness of the rural
environment and links between rural and urban environs. The development of forest
schools has been a successful way of increasing education opportunities and contributing
to education enabling us to appreciate our heritage and culture and live a healthier life.
Dorset currently has no accredited Forest School
• Communities and Places – trees, woods and forests can provide a wide range of benefits
to all sections of the community. They reduce noise and air pollution and provide
sustainable urban drainage and shade. They create a green infrastructure, provide a sense
of ‘well-being’, inspire people, improve neighbourhoods and bring people of different
cultures, generations, backgrounds and religions together for a common goal or purpose.
• Water Quality – In many instances woods and forests can improve water quality and
reduce the potential for flooding. Trees can stabilise slopes and riverside banks and
strategically located woodlands can protect water from diffuse pollution from
agriculture and nutrient run-off. Woodland on floodplains also has the potential to
physically ‘retain’ water in times of heavy rainfall, reducing peak flows.
• Cultural and Historical Heritage – the trees, woods and forest we see today are the
product of historic land management systems. Evidence suggests that humans were
managing woodlands in the Mesolithic period. This continued management incorporated
open space creation, coppicing, pollarding and cultivating fruit in orchards. It has given a
unique identity to the cultural and historic landscape of Dorset.

Section 3
History
The character of Dorset’s wooded landscapes has evolved through intricate interactions
between nature and human activity. For centuries Dorset’s trees and woodlands have been
subject to management and been an integral part of the local economy. This has left a
valuable cultural and social legacy, which must be protected and managed to provide the
benefits expected from society now, and in the future.
Eight thousand years ago as much as 80% of Great Britain was forest (albeit with wide open
spaces grazed by large herbivores). By about two thousand years ago large-scale forest
clearance for settlement and agriculture, combined with changes in the climate had already
resulted in tree cover falling to around 20%, with distinct regional variations. This decline
continued through most of the next two thousand years, and by 1900, forest and woodland
cover was around 5%. People have shaped almost all of what we see today in the landscape,
and many of the open spaces of the uplands and lowland heaths, as well as the layout of
towns and villages, owe much to the actions of people many centuries ago.
The Doomsday Book (published in 1086) quotes Dorset as having approximately 32,800
hectares (81,000 acres) of woodland, including wood pasture (Rackham 1986), slightly higher
than recent surveys of 28,758 hectares. In the Ancient Woodland Inventory, compiled and
written by Jonathan Spencer, Dorset is quoted as having 7,749 hectares of ancient woodland.
Melbury Park in North West Dorset is an outstanding example of well-treed parkland.
Melbury Park was enclosed in 1547 and its continued management as a deer
park with its individual trees of great antiquity explains why it is one of the richest
localities for epiphytic lichens in Europe.
Woodland archaeology can be categorised into those remnants from an earlier, open
landscape preserved by tree cover, and those that relate to the past management of treecovered
landscapes. From the former category, features and sites such as round barrows,
burial mounds and prehistoric field systems exist in woodland. From the latter category,
charcoal hearths, limekilns and brickworks inform us of past woodland management. All
form part of the historic environment and provide the tools with which we can understand
our past. They are a finite, non-renewable resource, and once lost, can not be replaced. To
allow the interpretation and study of the historic environment by future generations, they
must be managed to ensure its preservation.
Throughout the centuries woodlands of Dorset were extensively managed and provided
economic and social functions to local communities. Until the 1800s, woodlands remained
relatively intact. Over the last 200 years woodlands have become more linked to the cycle
of modern economies and a great deal of timber was felled to meet the demands of two
World Wars.
Dorset has a history of plantations and natural regeneration of woodlands on heathlands
and other formerly open space. In many areas removal of trees to re-create open ground of
high nature conservation value has been very successful but in other areas mixed ‘wooded
heath’ also provides suitable habitats for many species. Woods and forests that are managed
successfully provide not only economic benefits but also social and environmental ones as
well. The success of many species is a result of the combination of traditional management
practices and commercial forestry providing suitable habitats for these species and delivering
priority Biodiversity Action Plans for endangered species.
Motte & Bailey © Forestry Commission
Since 1945, the direct loss of individual trees was largely driven by agricultural policies of the
time. Many veteran trees were felled to make way for new plantings as they were thought
to be of little value, or died due to unsympathetic management practices such as hedgerow
removal or over-shading. In more recent times veteran trees have suffered as they are a
“Health and Safety” hazard the misconception that these trees are dead, dying or dangerous.
Between 1946 and 1975, at least half of the ancient woodlands in Dorset had lost their
ancient woodland characteristics through the planting of non-native species, reduction in
appropriate management and lack of economic value (Rackham, 1990.) The remaining 50%
maintain many ancient woodland characteristics but many suffer from inappropriate
management.
Commercial forestry consisting of non-native species was highly appropriate to the forestry
policies and woodland objectives of the past. Many of these forests have been managed very
successfully and are now an important capital resource for their owners and have continued
to be an important component of local timber industries. With the rise in the cost of
15

Section 3
16
imported timber, continuing these commercial forests is important to maintain the
production of quality timber whilst underpinning the current and emerging markets.
Traditional woodland management practices, such as coppicing and pollarding helped create
a wealth of biodiversity associated with the county’s trees, woods and forests. However,
with the greater availability of fossil fuel, plastic and metal alternatives and ever increasing
timber imports, many coppice woodlands became redundant and today many woodland
products such as charcoal, hurdles, thatching spars and construction timber are imported
from abroad because they are cheaper. This decline in woodland management subsequently
led to a decline in the biodiversity of Dorset’s woodlands, particularly butterfly and
woodland bird species. Many of these remaining trees and woodlands are of ancient
origin, and remain today as protectors of numerous rare native wildlife species and habitats.
The increase in deer and squirrel populations combined with inappropriate management
has resulted in a decline in many native woodland species such as common dormouse
(Muscardinus avellanarius), pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly (Boloria ephroyne), greater
and lesser horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum & R. hipposideros) and the spotted
flycatcher (Muscicapa striata). However, in many instances the planting and subsequent
management of forestry plantations has provided ideal habitats for many threatened species
such as bats, nightjar (Carpimulgus europaeus), smooth snake (Coronella austriaca) and
Dartford warbler (Sylvia undata).
Ancient oak on bank in Harbins Park © Sean Cooch by kind permission of Harbins Park Farm
Orchards
Many traditional orchards, especially those which are no longer actively cultivated, face
the threat of neglect or removal to make way for housing developments, horse grazing
or intensive arable agriculture. Traditional apple, pear, plum, cherry and nut orchards have
changed from being part of most farms to rarities in most counties. Yet these orchards
are often the richest kinds for a huge diversity of wildlife, and vary enormously across the
country, creating distinctive and historic landscapes. Traditional orchards are cultural landmarks.
They are the source of genetic variety, local recipes and customs. They are home to the
hundreds of varieties of apples and other orchard fruits and are extremely biodiverse.
Forest and open heathland © David Rees

Section 3
Woodland Ownership
19
(All tables in this chapter are derived from the latest data available from the Forestry
Commission’s National Inventory of Woodlands and Trees, published in 2002.)
One of the biggest issues facing the future of Dorset’s woodlands is the large number of
individual woodland owners combined with their small size and fragmented nature. The
table below shows the breakdown of woodland ownership in Dorset in comparison to
regional and national figures.
Dorset SW Region National
Ownership Type Total % of Total Total % of Total Total % of Total
Area (ha) Woodland Area (ha) Area Area (ha) Area
Personal 15,104 53.7 107,218 52.1 480,794 47.1
Business 1,563 5.6 31,221 15.2 146,601 14.3
Forestry/
Timber business 0 0 0 0.0 7,200 0.7
Charity 1,365 4.9 16,214 7.9 68,484 6.7
Local Authority 1,211 4.3 6,350 3.1 61,098 6.0
FE 6,512 23.2 6,868 17.5 27,302 21.7
Other Public 2,052 7.3 35,900 3.3 222,694 2.7
Community/
common land 0 0 130 0.1 3,732 0.4
Unidentified 294 1 1,709 0.8 3,917 0.4
Total 28,101 100 205,610 100 1,021,822 100
77% of woodlands and forests in Dorset are outside the Forestry Commission’s ownership,
and of this ‘other’ ownership 70% of the woodlands are in private hands. The National
Inventory of Woodlands and Trees also shows that 55% of these woodlands are of less than
100 hectares. With such a fragmented ownership, engaging with the owners of these
assets is key to ensuring a proactive approach to woodland management in the future
and delivering better economics for wood products. It is also crucial to ensuring trees, woods
and forests play an ever more important role in providing social, economic and environmental
benefits.
Beefsteak fungus © Emma Brawn

Section 3
Current Woodland
& Tree Resource
20
Current Woodland and Tree Resource
The charts below show the breakdown of woodland type, and compare the county
woodland cover to regional and national averages.
Dorset % Cover
SW % Cover
GB % Cover
60.00
50.00
40.00
According to the most recent (2002) National Inventory of Woodlands and Trees, carried out
by the Forestry Commission, Dorset has 28,758 hectares of woodland and forest over 0.1
hectare.
28,758 hectares equates to 11% of the total county land area and 13.5% of the total
woodland in the South West region. Of the total woodland cover in Dorset over a quarter,
or 7,749 hectares, is believed to have been wooded since 1600AD. This is a significant
percentage of Ancient Woodland and extremely important for biodiversity, culture and
heritage. Within this definition of ancient woodland, 52.4% has been planted with nonnative
species (known as Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites or PAWS). In addition to
the ancient woodland sites there are a number of native species woodlands that have been
planted or naturally regenerated over the last 150 years.
The tables below show the woodland area by forest type, and the principal species found
within these woodlands.
30.00
20.00
% Cover
Dorset’s Woodland by Forest Type
Felled 0.7%
Mixed 14.6%
Coppice 1.1%
10.00
Broadleaved 47.6%
Open Space 5%
Conifer Coppice-w- Broadleaved Coppice Mixed Windblow Open Space Felled
Standards
Broad Forest Types
0.00
Conifer 30.7%
Coppice-w-Standards 0.3%

Section 3
Oak 13.3%
Woodland Area by Principal Species
(excluding coppice, felled and open areas)
Beech 9.5%
Sycamore 3.5%
Ash 12.2%
Birch 5.6%
condition and biodiversity. However the county still retains a good number of important
sites sixty five woodland and parkland areas included within Sites of Special Scientific Interest
(SSSI), although specific woodland SSSIs are under-represented in Dorset (M Heath, pers
comm.) Two of these areas are designated as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs). In
addition there are 621 woodland Sites of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCIs). All comprise
6,693 hectares. In recent years more innovative silviculture practises have been adopted,
such as Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF) and there has been a resurgence of coppicing.
Much of the ancient woodland cover is to be found on the clay and alluvial soils in the
county although there are a number of scattered woodlands on chalk soils. The more recent
forestry conifer plantings are predominantly on the drier, sandier soils to the southeast of
the county, whilst broadleaf plantations have been established on chalk soils.
21
Mixed
Conifer 0.9%
Other
Conifer 12.3%
Larch 2.4%
Elm 0.1%
Other
Broadleaves 8.1%
Mixed
Broadleaves 8.3%
Between 1995 and 2005 over 2,190 hectares were planted with trees in Dorset, with over
1000 hectares being ‘new’ woodland planting, a significant increase of approximately 4%
of woodland cover over the county.
Pine 23.8%
Dorset’s woodland cover has probably remained relatively constant since about 4,000 years
ago. Few woodlands remain that are managed sustainably and these only account for a small
proportion of the total resource. Very few parklands or wooded commons were managed
through history, some lasting no more than decades before going into decline. Those that
did survive up to the World War 2 have since been grubbed out, or neglected. The few
remaining managed parklands, such as Melbury Park, Charborough Park and Stock Gaylard
give an indication of how things were. Those woodlands and parklands that remain in a
well-managed condition are extremely important in their own right and the county is
nationally recognised for its number and quality of woodland and veteran trees species.
Quality UK grown timber © Forestry Commission
In reality traditional woodland management has been in decline since the end of the
19th century, and in many woodlands the lack of appropriate management and impact of
agricultural and forestry policies has been a major factor in the loss of habitat composition,

Section 3
22
Ancient and Veteran Tree Resource
trees and their maintenance and appropriate management is vital to their survival. Some
individual trees support the only known populations of particular lichen species in the
county, and in a few cases in the country. Other more common species also rely on such
trees for a variety of reasons such as nesting (birds) and hibernating (bats).
As well as being of considerable ecological importance, many veteran trees have significant
cultural and historical value, a source of pride for many of the landowners who protect them.
Trees such as the sycamore at Tolpuddle, (where the Tolpuddle Martyrs met), two trees in
Blandford known as the Bastard Brothers (named after two brothers who rebuilt the town
after the 1731 fire) and the Wyndham Oak (reputed to be over 1000 years old), are well
known landmark trees with important cultural associations.
Churchyard yew © Sean Cooch
Information on the number and distribution of individual veteran trees in Dorset is limited.
A report published by the Dorset Environmental Records Centre (DERC) in 2005 identified
important veteran tree sites in the county (with 5 or more trees), but there is little
information on number and location of individual or small groups of veteran trees. The
data that exists is currently being updated by Natural England. The Dorset Greenwood Tree
Initiative was launched in 2007 by a sub-set of Dorset Woodlink partners to address ancient
and veteran tree issues. A major part of the project is to increase the number of records of
veteran trees for the county, adding to the data accumulated by DERC.
Dorset’s veteran trees are a part of the internationally important veteran tree resource of
lowland England. Although the information is incomplete Dorset probably supports
approximately 5% of the South West’s resource of veteran tree wood pasture and parkland
(Edwards 2005). They can be seen almost everywhere (urban setting, farmland, hedgerows,
woodland, churchyards, gardens and parklands). Historic parklands probably support the
most important numbers of veteran trees and their associated ecological interests. Many
nationally uncommon species of fungi, invertebrates and lichens are associated with veteran
Bracket fungus © David Rees
Many veteran trees are located in woodlands as old boundary trees, old wood pasture
(consumed by plantations) or maiden trees. One of their major threats is a lack of
understanding about their management, their mechanics and general care. As woodland
edge, hedgerow or field trees they can suffer from the effects of pesticides and fertilisers,
shading, root damage from cultivation and soil compaction and changes in water table. In
plantations they can suffer from the effects of forestry operations including planting too
close, structural damage by harvesting operations and root damage from harvesting machinery.
There are a number of issues facing ancient and veteran trees, which by their nature are old
and show signs of decay. With care these trees will live for many years, but in the meantime
the next generation need to be identified and managed appropriately.

Section 3
24
Accessible woodlands
Over 50% of woodlands and forests in Dorset are accessible by public rights of way or
permissive access for a distance of 100 metres or more, but the majority of these can only be
easily reached by car or some other form of motorised transport. Only 12.35% of Dorset’s
population has access to woodlands over 2ha in size within 500 metres of where they live
(Woodland Trust 2004).
Only 26% of schools are within 500 metres (walking distance) of an accessible woodland and
whilst the majority of smaller towns and villages are within walking distance of a woodland
or forest, the bigger urban areas have little or no accessible woodland within walking
distance.
As populations grow there is a need to identify and encourage multi-functional woodland
areas to meet the increasing need for recreational opportunities. Woodland habitats tend to
be more ‘robust’ than some other habitat types, and when in a peri-urban landscape they are
capable of absorbing high numbers of people and their associated pressures.
Horse riding in woodland © Forestry Commission
Discussing all ability access © Forestry Commission
Woodlands that are accessible to the public, both urban and rural, are significant in that they
provide places where people feel they can get away from the stresses of everyday life.
Woodlands and trees have an important role to play in the physical, mental and spiritual
wellbeing of people, and the health impacts of well designed woodlands can be extremely
beneficial. Engaging communities with local woodland design and management can develop
a sense of pride in the woods, ensuring that the woods stay as a place for peaceful and
sociable recreation.

Spiders Web © Forestry Commission

Key Strategic Links
Section 4
29
South West
Regional
Woodland
Forestry
Framework
Fig 1
Kyoto
Protocol
Forestry
Stewardship
Certificate
Deer Initiative
Strategy
Rural
Development
Programme
for England
Dorset
Biodiversity
Strategy
Rights of Way
Improvement
Plan
England Strategy for Trees,
Woods and Forests
UK Energy
White Paper
Local
Development
Framework
Landscape
Character
Assessments
South West
Regional
Spatial
Strategy
Dorset AONB
Management
Plan
Dorset
Woodland,
Trees and
Forestry
Strategy
England
Woodfuel
Strategy
Dorset
Renewable
Energy Strategy
Sustainable
Community
Strategy
for Dorset
Cranborne
Chase AONB
Management
Plan
Local Area
Agreements
England
Woodland
Grant Scheme
Planning Policy
Statements
UK Woodland
Assurance
Scheme
South West
Regional
Woodfuel
Framework
UK Biodiversity
Action Plan
Natural England
Strategic
Direction
The Dorset Trees, Woods and Forest strategy has been developed with the strategic
framework shown above (Fig 1). Policies, strategies and legislation from local to
international levels can influence decisions made about the future management of Dorset’s
trees, woods and forests. The influences are not always obvious, but agreements such as the
Kyoto Protocol of 1997 established legally binding targets for the reduction of greenhouse
gases emitted by industrial countries. The effect of this at a local level is the development
of sustainability plans and the promotion of timber for sustainable, low carbon building
and woodfuel.
The international, national, regional and local strategic links influence the management
of woodlands today and can aid the recovery of viable woodlands in Dorset. The England
Strategy for Trees, Woods and Forests sets out the Government’s vision for England’s tree
and woodland resource, in both rural and urban areas, over the next fifty years. Regionally,
the South West Regional Woodland and Forestry Framework identifies how the region can
benefit more from its woodland resource whilst improving them for the future. At a more
grass roots level the England Woodland Grant Scheme (EWGS) provides for the management
and creation of woodlands. In recent years the greater emphasis has been placed on
sustainable woodland and forest products, and schemes such as the UK Woodland
Assurance Scheme (UKWAS).
The Draft Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) is a review of the current Regional Planning
Guidance for the South West (RPG10) which is a strategic planning document that covers the
whole of the South West region and forms part of the Statutory Development Plan. Within
the Draft RSS specific issues relating to woodlands and forests, and renewable heat are
highlighted.
The Dorset Biodiversity Strategy was prepared by the Dorset Biodiversity Partnership and
provides a strategic framework for action for biodiversity. It helps direct and co-ordinate
initiatives that will conserve and enhance the species and habitats important to Dorset.
Four specific woodland types identified for action are priority habitats within Dorset – wet
woodlands, lowland beech and yew woodlands, lowland mixed deciduous woodlands,
and parkland and wood pasture. The objectives include enhancing quality and quantity
of the resource.
Planning Policy Statement 9 (PPS9) sets out planning policies on protection of biodiversity
and geological conservation through the planning system. It states that local authorities
should ‘identify any areas of ancient woodland in their areas that do not have statutory
protection’ and normally ‘not grant planning permission for any development which would
result in its loss or deterioration’. Local planning authorities should identify these sites on
proposal maps and cross-refer to the statutory protection given to these sites in the
explanatory texts in local development documents.
Appendix 1 gives further details of key strategic links.

Section 4
Key Themes
30
Key Themes affecting the Trees, Woodlands and Forests of Dorset:
Environment
the effect of external market forces. The recent downturn in timber prices (over the past 10
years) has now reversed and previously uneconomical woods and forests are now being
managed. Identifying aspirations of the woodland owner is key to maintaining woodlands
that can achieve the required outputs, whether it is economic gain, safeguarding woodland
habitats and species, enhancing social and cultural enjoyment or a combination of these
factors.
Fig 2
Management
Management,
Evaluation &
Perception
Deer &
Non-Native
Species
PAWS
Restoration
Non-wooded
(Open Habitats)
Neglect
Biodiversity
New
Planting
Wood Products
Production
& Quality
Size
Climate
Change
Sustainable
Management
Ownership
Landscape
Fragmentation
Economics
Health
Access &
Recreation
Legislation
Education
Culture & Society
Development
Woodland
Archaeology
Green
Infrastructure
In reality economics is the main driving force behind woodland management. On a global
scale, high value products are affected by fluctuating timber prices, production and more
recently from the demand by larger countries not traditionally associated with timber
imports, such as China and India. Low value products are influenced by local markets
with factors such as production costs, lack of site access, tree species and quality all determining
whether a woodland is managed or not.
Walking the way to health © Forestry Commission
Woodlands are one of the most robust terrestrial habitats but can be affected by many
different factors (Fig.2). They are all inextricably linked and the constant challenge is to
achieve the right balance as the sustainable management of each woodland is affected by
a combination of these factors.
The two major factors associated with the decline of many of Dorset’s woodlands are
inappropriate management and economics in terms of grant availability for landowners and
The lack of a coordinated approach to woodland management can lead to a loss of
biodiversity, fragmentation, economic value and carbon storage/offsetting. The extension
of woodland through new plantings and natural regeneration of scrub and secondary
woodlands in the past has, in some places been at the expense of other equally important
semi-natural habitats, particularly heathland, chalk downland and fen. In many cases
inappropriate management leads to a loss of biodiversity and fragmentation of habitat.
However, with climate change woodlands and forests may be managed differently which
has implications for species including bats, birds and butterflies.

Section 4
32
There is now an overwhelming body of scientific evidence that indicates that climate change
is a serious and urgent issue. And whilst there are some remaining uncertainties about the
eventual impacts, the evidence is now sufficient to give clear and strong guidance to
policy-makers about the pressing need for action.
Climate change is potentially a serious threat to society at every level. With changes in
precipitation patterns, warmer temperatures and more carbon being emitted than
sequestered, trees, woods and forests have an important role to play in reducing this impact.
A landscape scale approach to new planting provides the opportunity to adapt for the future,
planting tree species that will combat the changes in the environment, sequester or off-set
carbon, provide a sustainable fuel source for the future and reduce habitat fragmentation.
There is significant effort underway throughout the South West region to conserve our
biodiversity but major challenges lie ahead if we are to stop further losses, re-establish lost
wildlife and enable it to adapt to the pressures of climate change. The South West Nature
Map shows the best areas to maintain and expand (through restoration and/or re-creation)
terrestrial wildlife habitats at a landscape scale.
With the correct planning and investment trees, woods and forests can deliver a multitude
of benefits. The management of Dorset’s trees, woods and forests will have to improve in
order to combat the threat of climate change and provide increased recreational and access
opportunities. There must be robust mechanisms in place for producing quality wood
products with minimal environmental impact whilst at the same time providing opportunities
for recreation and development of a green infrastructure.
Many existing trees, woods and forests are under pressure from developments, particularly
in urban and peri-urban areas. In particular, individual trees in urban areas are likely to face
increasing pressure from developments and in 2008 Dorset County Council produced a Tree
Policy to take forward a co-ordinated approach to the issues facing urban and highway trees.
Ecotowns, growth points and low cost housing will also have an impact of trees, woods and
forests and these present an opportunity to bring together and develop a green
infrastructure around urban areas providing a better living environment.
Overstood hazel coppice © David Rees
Many old orchards have been lost simply because
they have not been valued by the authorities that
control development. Local councils have to find
land for housing quotas assigned to them by
central Government. Economically dormant
orchards within and on the edges of villages and
towns may present lucrative opportunities for
development for landowners who have found
it difficult to continue to make a living in
horticulture. Small orchards which may be
beautiful features in the centre of villages
commonly succumb to infill policies. Today these
remaining trees are the last of these regional
varieties and face extinction if they are not
nurtured properly. The value of old orchards was
highlighted in August 2007 by their designation
by DEFRA as priority habitats in UK Biodiversity
Action Plans. They were added to the list because
of their scarcity, the orchard area in England
having declined by 57% since 1950, and because
of their importance for many kinds of wildlife.
Increasingly central government is passing decision making and financing down to the local
level. This means that Dorset will have more responsibility for its own affairs and so this
strategy is the first step in highlighting what trees, woods and forests can offer in Dorset.
The wider Rural Development Programme for England (RDPE) as well as its Environmental
Stewardship and England Woodland Grant Scheme (EWGS) themes will play a vital role in
delivering this strategy.
Merveille Du Jour © Les Hill,
Butterfly Conservation
With a large percentage of woods and forests in private ownership, contacting and engaging
with their owners is fundamental in implementing this strategy. Dorset Woodlink is ideally
placed to promote the benefits of trees, woods and forests to the ‘wider audience’ and to
take forward the implementation of this strategy.
Further information can be found in Appendix 2

Timber forwarder © Forestry Commission
Mobile sawbench © Forestry Commission
Wood products © Dorset Coppice Group
Gluelam and laminated timber frame
© Forestry Commission

Section 5
The Future
34
This strategy is the start of a process. It identifies aims and objectives and sets out policies
focused on the key issues facing trees, woods and forests in Dorset. The future of Dorset’s
trees, woods and forests will be dependent on the ability of those involved in their
management to adapt to new demands, opportunities and markets, aided by the support
of local and central government.
Biodiversity, economics and social needs are intrinsically linked to successful management of
woods and forests. What is needed is sound advice and support to re-energise and add value
for the owners, whether the main purpose is for wood products, recreation, biodiversity or
social benefit.
Predicting the future is impossible, but with the growing evidence for climate change we can
be sure that changes will occur. Climate change will impact on trees, woods and forests that
exist and predictions suggest that while some tree species, such as beech could not tolerate
the change, species such as Douglas fir could be grown more extensively in Dorset and the
South West.
New woodland planting © David Rees
The Nottingham Declaration on Climate Change is a voluntary pledge to address the issues of
climate change. It represents a high-level, broad statement of commitment that any council
can make to its own community. The declaration was originally launched in October 2000 at
a conference in Nottingham with 200 leaders, chief executives and senior managers of UK
local government. To mark the fifth anniversary of the declaration it was re-launched on 5
December 2005 at the second National Councils Climate Conference. The new version of the
declaration is broadly similar to the original, but better reflects current thinking. To date
Dorset County Council, West Dorset District Council, Weymouth and Portland Borough
Council, Purbeck District Council and Bournemouth Borough Council have all signed up.
Government and local policies already exist to reduce carbon emissions and schemes exist
that enable the off-setting of carbon by funding tree planting or renewable energies in
various parts of the world. Opportunities in Dorset are being investigated with the aim
of providing a carbon off-setting scheme to enable the planting of community/urban
forests, providing green infrastructure, reducing habitat fragmentation and supporting the
installation of biomass boilers.
In the timber industry prices for homegrown
timber have been depressed for over ten
years, but new markets are opening up with
the help of new technologies, particularly
for small round wood and co-products such
as woodchip. Recreation is beginning to
generate income for woodland owners
whilst the market for sawn timber in
construction and furnishings is growing.
All this is leading to stronger demand and
higher price, which is helping woodland
owners and businesses to expand and plan
for the future more positively than for
many years.
Woods and forests managed commercially
Chipping for woodfuel © Forestry Commission retain their value in several ways, whether
for timber, biodiversity, recreation,
education, shooting or other social benefits, examples being Moors Valley Country Park at
Ringwood and Wareham Forest. With the right type of management woods and forests can
support and enhance these uses, with many areas being able to sustain ‘multi-use’ activities.
In addition to the historic environment, native species and habitats being under threat from
lack of management, there is a very real threat from rising deer numbers and non-native
species such as grey squirrels and rhododendron. These species need to be controlled to
enable our native woodland flora and fauna to flourish and regenerate naturally.

Section 5
35
The multi-purpose use of the county’s trees, woods and forests should be actively promoted
and supported by both the private sector and authorities. There is a need to raise the profile
of the benefits of multi-purpose woodlands and forestry including its economic values.
Health benefits of trees, woods and forests in towns and cities have been documented since
the early 1980’s. Reports show that hospital recovery rates where patients have a view of
trees are significantly quicker than those that don’t and that woodlands can provide
significant health benefits, both mental and physical (Ulrich R.S 1984)
Looking at, or travelling through, treed landscapes reduce states of stress and anxiety.
Regular moderate exercise in well designed, accessible woods can lead to a reduction in
heart disease and other physical illnesses. Strenuous exercise, such as mountain biking and
orienteering, can have greater beneficial health effects. Improvements in air quality as trees
filter pollutants and provision of shade in urban areas reduces ultraviolet radiation exposure.
Social benefits relate to improved physical and mental health, enhanced living environments,
increased community pride, recreation, education and community engagement.
Economic benefits, in addition to employment and the value of timber, include positive
influences on inward investment, increased property values, reduced energy costs,
regeneration of derelict and damaged land and tourism.
Identification of appropriate woods and forests that can be most effectively utilised by the
tourism industry and local communities for both organised sport and informal recreation
within Dorset would enable a coordinated and planned approach to marketing and
development on a county wide basis.
The benefits and opportunities provided by woodlands and forests should be reflected
in county and district planning guidance, local development frameworks and local plans.
Examples of benefits include use of local timber for sustainable development, planning
for community access and education, achieving healthier lifestyles and providing sources
of renewable energy.
A county woodland initiative, such as Woodlink, encourages woodland and forest
owners/managers in both the public and private sector to work more closely together.
This can stimulate greater use of local timber in the woodchain and to improve marketing in
order to retain a higher proportion of timber value within the region.
Efforts need to be made to raise awareness amongst developers, specifiers, timber
processors and the construction industry of the potential to increase local timber sourcing
for construction and ancillary purposes. With increasing transport costs and carbon emissions
utilising local timber products has a commercial as well as environmental advantage.
Steps could also be taken to make education and training in forestry and related construction,
environmental and leisure sectors more relevant to students’ needs for the multipurpose
agenda in future forestry work. Across the Southwest a need to develop mechanisms to
coordinate practical experience has been identified, following on from college-based studies.
The use of woodfuel from existing woodlands and ensuring that its potential is recognised by
developers, planners and woodland owners should be promoted. Further research should be
undertaken at a county level to assess the potential of utilising thinnings and low-grade
wood for heat and energy generation.
A network of contacts representing sporting interests should be developed to stimulate
economic activity based around the management of deer and shooting interests. Not only
would this benefit those involved and gain higher prices for game and venison, it would act
as an incentive to undertake proper and targeted management of wild deer populations.
A certification scheme, Direct from Dorset, exists to promote and market local produce that
includes timber, woodland products and artefacts, venison (and other food products),
woodfuel, and charcoal. This scheme should be supported by woodland owners and
managers as it can add value to products.
Firewood © Forestry Commission
Partnerships should be identified that would provide opportunities for closer collaboration
between successful initiatives whether they be sport, recreation, tourism, timber production,
development, community projects or education.

Woodland Anemome © Forestry Commission

Recommendations
& Priority Action
Section 6
This section sets the framework for ensuring Dorset’s trees, woods and forests provide a
variety of benefits to the people of Dorset.
Enviromental
Issue Recommendation Action(s)
Having identified the three policy areas in Section 2, the following tables set out the issues,
recommendations and actions that will be taken forward by the Woodlink Partnership.
Note: Many of the issues cut across some or all of the three policies but have been placed in the most appropriate table.
37
Lack of data relating to the condition
of Dorset’s trees, woods and forests.
Lack of planned management
leading to mismanaged woodlands.
Declining biodiversity.
Rising population of deer, non-native
and invasive species detrimental to
sustainable woodland management.
New Plantings for - Biodiversity,
connectivity & de-fragmentation.
Inappropriate tree cover on
non woodland habitats.
Management of Ancient
Semi-Natural Woodlands.
Restoration of Plantations on
Ancient Woodland Sites.
Safeguarding Wet Woodlands.
Conservation of Archaeological,
Cultural and Heritage features.
Distribution & number of ancient
and veteran trees.
Determine current state and/or condition of Dorset’s trees, woods and
forests.
County based Woodland Officer to facilitate management of trees,
woods and forests.
Halt decline in woodland biodiversity.
Ensure no net loss of ancient woodland cover.
Focus on activities to ensure sustained, effective management.
Identify priority areas for biodiversity gain and habitat linkages. Use a
landscape scale approach and take account of other land uses and public
benefits.
Remove inappropriate trees, woodland or forest for restoration of BAP
habitats where the benefits outweigh the environmental and social costs.
Maintain, improve, protect and manage existing sites.
Restoration of all identified PAWS.
Maintain current extent and identify restoration areas.
Determine current state and/or condition of Dorset’s woodland archaeology.
Locate and identify veteran and ancient trees.
Collate current information and identify gaps and funding opportunities to
undertake further survey.
Ensure a County Woodland Officer is in post and acts as a link between woodland
owners and possible timber outlets.
Ensure 95% of woodland SSSI’s are in favourable condition by 2010.
Adopt landscape scale and ancient woodland priority area approach to identify
priority species and habitats to target funds and management.
Provision of specialist advice.
Set up County-wide steering group & encourage co-ordinated management.
Work with Deer Initiative and Poole Basin Deer Management Group. Promote.
Direct from Dorset as value adding accreditation scheme.
Adopt landscape scale and ancient woodland priority area approach to identify
fragmented woods and forest and utilise SW Nature Map to identify planting areas.
Use the Local Developments frameworks to address fragmentation.
Identify non-woodland BAP habitat restoration areas and determine benefits of
tree removal.
Work with landowners to ensure a strategic approach.
Identify priority sites using ancient woodland priority area approach and identify funds.
Identify priority sites ancient woodland priority area approach and identify funds.
Using information available, identify suitable restoration sites.
Identify funding possibilities.
Improve awareness and provide information and advice to owners/ managers
regarding woodland heritage management.
Investigate possible tourism opportunities.
Survey to determine veteran tree resource.

Section 6
38
Environmental cont’d
Issue Recommendation Action(s)
Neglect, isolation and protection
of veteran trees.
Planning/development relating to
ancient and veteran trees.
Loss of orchards and locally
indigenous fruit varieties.
No reliable statistics on the extent
of the overall parkland resource, or
on historical and current rates of
loss, degradation or condition.
Identify and map future veteran trees.
Re-instate appropriate management practices.
Maintain, improve, protect and manage existing trees.
Maintain ‘network’ of veteran trees and semi-natural habitats across the
county.
Maintain and increase the area of traditional orchards using local fruit
varieties.
Determine current state and/or condition of Dorset’s parkland resource.
Greenwood Tree Project officer to collaborate with Woodlink Partnership, DERC,
NET and district tree officers & local communities.
Identify and map suitable trees.
Produce guidance notes/ seminars/ training to ensure protection through liaison
with planning departments, tree officers and developers.
Planners to incorporate measures to protect veteran trees from further loss
and damage.
Veteran tees to be protected by Tree Preservation Orders.
Planners should apply PPS9 to ALL proposed developments that will affect veteran
trees’ conservation value, (including root systems), any alteration of local hydrology
and pollution issues.
Collate existing orchard data and work with Common Ground, Dorset Wildlife Trust
and local communities to reinstate orchards.
Explore the opportunity for including urban orchards in new developments and
green infrastructure.
Collate existing information and identify gaps and funding opportunities to
undertake further survey.
Pearl Bordered Fritillary © Peter Burgess, Butterfly Conservation
Mixed species bluebell wood © David Rees
Water storage by flood plain woodland © Forestry Commission

Section 6
39
Social
Issue Recommendation Action(s)
New Plantings for Social &
Community.
Identify priority community sites that would benefit
local communities and provide a green infrastructure.
Work with local authorities, planners and developers to identify sites.
Develop and implement a community woodland policy.
Limited opportunities for
access & recreation.
Limited opportunities for
community accessibility,
education & learning.
Inadequate opportunities for
health & well being-
Quality of life.
Insufficient green Infrastructure.
Limited development of Sustainable
Communities and places.
Loss of traditional skills base
and products.
Engage with landowners and user groups to
encourage appropriate, quality access, education
and recreation opportunities.
Provide suitable and appropriate forest and woodland
access.
Collaboration between industry initiatives such as
sport, recreation, tourism, community projects or
education.
Draw up a green infrastructure plan for Dorset.
The benefits and opportunities provided by trees,
woods and forests should be reflected in county and
district planning guidance, local development
frameworks and local plans.
Make education and training in forestry and related
construction, environmental and leisure sectors more
relevant to students’.
Identify appropriate woods and forests that can be most effectively utilised by the tourism
industry and local communities for both organised sport and informal recreation.
Explore funding opportunities to enable match funding of projects.
Develop a Forest School in Dorset.
Implement the Rights of Way Improvement Plan ensuring that woodland is an integral part of
wider green-space and access strategies and programmes.
Partnerships should be identified that would provide opportunities for improving quality of
life and health.
Promote the benefits of healthy walking and exercise in woods and forests and set up pilot
projects close to main urban centres.
Work with county and district councils, Natural England and the two AONB’s to develop a
framework for delivery green infrastructure.
Work with developers, planners, arboricultural officers and local authorities to promote the
opportunities provided by trees in new and existing developments.
Work with partners across the South West to develop mechanisms to coordinate practical
experience that has been identified, following on from college-based studies.
Family dog walking © Forestry Commission Woodland horse riding New planting for green infrastructure © Forestry Commission

Section 6
40
Economic
Issue Recommendation Action(s)
Certification
Increase woodland area under certification through
targeting of funds and facilitating management work.
Encourage woodland owners/managers to enter into appropriate schemes such as EWGS, ES and
Direct from Dorset.
Improving woodland economics.
Integration of
planning/development.
Lack of awareness of product
specifications.
Identifying and engaging
landowners.
Lack of woodland management.
Limited opportunities for capital
grants and investment for woodfuel.
Producer confidence in the
woodfuel supply chain.
Wood for fuel consumer
confidence.
Support existing markets and develop new
opportunities and explore mechanisms that would
enable revenue to contribute to management costs.
No net loss of woodland area.
Local Development Frameworks to include measures
to identify opportunities for linking or buffering
woodland, in particular ancient woodlands.
Engage with architects, developers, planners, and local
communities.
Promote wood products as local, sustainable and
carbon.
Implement suitable, proactive method of engagement.
Relate benefits of woodfuel to owners’ interests.
Identify appropriate sources of grant funding and
private investment.
Engage with woodland owners, contractors,
communities, end users and financial investors.
The use of fuel wood from existing woodlands and
ensuring that its potential is recognised by developers,
planners and woodland owners should be promoted
Develop links and partnerships with suppliers,
accredited installers and landowners.
Identify new markets and opportunities and work with the sector to form a co-operative and
strengthen current markets.
Link with Woodland Renaissance survey to assess the growing stock within woods and forest in the
Southwest.
Planning authorities should not grant planning permission for any development unless the need
outweighs the loss of the woodland habitat. Where this occurs compensatory planting should be
carried out.
Planners to incorporate measures to protect woodland from further loss and damage and identify
ways of reversing fragmentation of habitats.
Raise awareness amongst developers, specifiers, timber processors and the construction industry of
the potential to increase local timber sourcing for construction and ancillary purposes given the
sustainability advantages of wood over alternative materials.
Liaise with organisations, private estates and sub-regional initiatives.
Continue to hold woodland/woodfuel events annually. Attend meetings and site visits. Produce
information sheets and articles for appropriate publications and promote management grants.
Promote EWGS to facilitate management for woodfuel.
Liaise with Forestry Commission, DEFRA, RDA, Local Authority and businesses.
Establish a mechanism for supporting woodland owners and publicising information.
Develop a directory of suppliers of certified wood products and end users such as developers and
local authorities.
Actively identify and engage with potential suppliers, heating engineers, training establishments
and landowners.
Work with developers and planners to create a sustainable demand.
Further research should be undertaken at a county level to assess the potential utilising thinnings
and low-grade wood for heat and energy generation.

Section 6
41
Economic cont’d
Issue Recommendation Action(s)
Woodfuel supply chain complexity.
Provide impartial advice and support and identify supply
chain ‘needs’ such as training, research, resources
and barriers.
Act as ‘honest broker’ enabling a joined-up advancement of the woodfuel industry.
Concentrate investment on generating ‘clusters’ of end users.
Limited education/awareness.
Carbon offsetting.
Ensuring continuity of timber
resource and silvicultural
management.
Limited new markets.
Engage with woodland owners, contractors, engineers,
end users and local communities.
Provide a carbon off-setting scheme.
Not net loss of woodland area by restocking and new
plantings.
Explore ways of promoting local timber, including
demonstration projects.
Hold training and awareness raising events and produce publicity material.
Identify suitable partners to develop a Dorset Carbon Offset scheme to enable the planting of
community/urban forests, providing green infrastructure, reducing habitat fragmentation and
supporting the installation of biomass boilers.
Identify areas where restocking with commercial species is acceptable.
For new plantings identify areas where there will be multi-use benefits.
Establish a project to demonstrate opportunities for utilising small diameter local timber for items
such as window frames, bespoke furniture and garden furniture.
Investigate opportunities for using local timber in the 2012 Olympics.
Woodchip © David Rees Roundwood © Forestry Commission UK grown timber used in construction © Forestry Commission

Section 7
References/
Bibliography
42
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Commission. Worcester.

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Forestry Commission. 2007. A Woodfuel Strategy for England. Forestry Commission,
Cambridge.
Forrest, A. 2001. The Status and Distribution of Ancient Woodland in Dorset. Part 1: Details
of methods used in updating the status and distribution of Ancient Woodland. Report No.
558. English Nature. Peterborough.
Hampshire County Council. 1995. Hazel Coppice: past, present & future. Hampshire County
Council. Winchester.
Harmer, R & Howe, J. 2003. The Silviculture and Management of Coppice Woodlands. Forestry
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Humphrey, J, Stevenson, A & Swailes, J. 2002. Life in the Deadwood. Forest Enterprise.
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Ireland, D, Hall, A & Jones D.H. 2004. Woodfuel Information Pack. Forest Research. Rugely.
Mason, B, Kerr, G and Simpson, J. 1999. What is Continuous Cover Forestry. Forestry
Commission Information Note. Forestry Commission, Edinburgh.
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Priority Sites for Action. Report produced for the Dorset AONB by Environmental Systems Ltd.
Office of Deputy Prime Minister. 2005. Planning Policy Statement 9: Biodiversity and
Geological Conservation. TSO, London.
Pengelly, H & Heath, M. 2003. The Status and Distribution of Ancient Woodland in Dorset.
Part 2: An analysis of landuse changes resulting in the loss of ancient woodland in Dorset
(1988-2000). English Nature. Peterborough.
Peterken, G. 1993. Woodland Conservation and Management. Chapman & Hall. London.
Prior. M. 2005. South West Woodfuel Framework. Forestry Commission. Mamhead.
Pryor, S.N. and Smith,S. (2002) The area & composition of plantations on ancient woodland
sites. The Woodland Trust.
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sites. Woodland Trust
Rackham, O. 1986. The History of the Countryside. Dent. London.
Rackham, O. 1990. Trees & Woodlands in the British Landscape. Dent. London.
Read, H. 2000. Veteran Trees Management Handbook. English Nature. Peterborough.
Richard N Thompson; 2003. Restoration of native woodland on ancient woodland sites.
Practice Guide, Forestry Commission, 52 pages. 0855385790 Stock code:FCPG014
Slee, B, Urqhart, J & Taylor, D. Woodland Management for Timber and Wood Products:
The Impact on Public Good Outputs. A report to the Forestry Commission and Defra.
Spencer, J. 2002. Ancient Woodland on the Forestry Commission Estate in England. Forestry
Commission. Edinburgh.
Swanick, C. 2002. Landscape Character Assessment: Guidance for England and Scotland. The
Countryside Agency.
Tucker, C & Laing, J. 2004. Ancient Woodland on the Assembly Estate. Forestry Commission
Wales.
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Journal 224pp. 420-421.
Watts, K, Humphrey, J.W., Griffiths, M, Quine, C, & Ray, D. 2005. Evaluating Biodiversity in
fragmented Landscapes. Forestry Commission Information Note. . Forestry Commission,
Edinburgh
West Dorset District Council. 2004. Framework for Action in the Countryside – 2004-2009.
West Dorset District Council. Dorchester.
Willis, K (Prof.) 2004. Making woodland count: Its contribution to our quality of life. A report
for the Woodland Trust.
Woodland Trust. 2002. Space for Nature: - landscape scale action for woodland biodiversity.
Woodland Trust. Grantham.
Woodland Trust. 2004. Space for People: - targeting action for woodland access. Woodland
Trust. Grantham.

Section 7
Further Sources
of Information
44
Websites
Environmental
Ancient Tree Forum – www.Ancient Tree Forum.co.uk
Ancient Tree Hunt - www.ancient-tree-hunt.org.uk
Butterfly Conservation – www.butterfly_conservation.org.uk
Cranborne Chase & West Wiltshire Downs AONB - www.ccwwdaonb.org.uk
Dorset AONB - www.dorsetaonb.org.uk
Dorset Coppice Group - www.Dorset Coppice Group.co.uk
Dorset Wildlife Trust - www.dorsetwildlife.co.uk/cms/
English Heritage - www.english-heritage.org.uk
Environment Agency - www.environment-agency.gov.uk
National Trust - www.nationaltrust.org.uk
Natural England (south west) - www.naturalengland.org.uk/regions/southwest
Nature on the Map - www.natureonthemap.org.uk
RSPB - www.rspb.org.uk
Small Woods Association - www.smallwoods.org.uk
South West Biodiversity Partnership - www.swbiodiversity.org.uk
The Tree Register - www.treeregister.org
Woodland Trust - www.woodlandtrust.org.uk
Woodfuel
Anglia Wood Fuels - www.angliawoodfuels.co.uk
Bioheat - www.bioheat.info
Biojule - www.biojoule.co.uk
Forest Research Woodfuel - www.woodfuel.org.uk/Woodfuelsproject
Gloucestershire Wood Fuels- www.swea.co.uk/Glos%20Wood%20Fuels.htm
South East Woodfuels - www.sewf.co.uk
South West Woodfuels - www.swwf.info
South Yorkshire Woodfuels - www.swwf.info
Wood Energy Business Scheme - www.woodenergybusiness.co.uk
Wood Energy Scotland - www.usewoodfuel.co.uk
Businesses
Arborico - www.arborico.com
Bulbarrow Timber - www.bulbarrowtimber.co.uk
Coppice Resources Limited - www.coppiceresources.com/cgibin/index.pl
Eco-composting - www.eco-composting.co.uk
Econergy Ltd - www.econergy.ltd.uk
Fuelwood - www.fuelwood.co.uk
Knighton Countryside Management - www.knightoncountryside.com
Mercia Energy Ltd - www.mercia-energy.co.uk
Midlands Woodfuel - www.wood-fuel.co.uk
Northwoods Woodfuel Initiative - www.northwoods.org.uk
Renewable Fuels Ltd - www.renewablefuels.co.uk
Treco - www.treco.co.uk
Wood Energy Ltd - www.woodenergyltd.co.uk
Woodfuel Solutions - www.woodfuelsolutions.co.uk
Woodfuel Wales - www.woodfuelwales.org.uk
Government Offices/Departments
Defra – www.defra.gov.uk
Dorset Agenda 21 – www.dorsetagenda21.org.uk
Dorset County Council – www.dorsetforyou.com
DTI Renewable Energy - www.dti.gov.uk/energy/sources/renewables
Forestry Commission – www.forestry.gov..uk
Government Office South West - www.gosw.gov.uk/gosw/envrural
South West Regional Development Agency - www.southwestrda.org.uk
Advice & Information
Arboricultural Association - www.trees.org.uk
Biocogen - www.cres.gr/biocogen/
Bioenergy - www.bioenergygroup.org
Biomass Energy centre - www.biomassenergycentre.org.uk
Bioregional - www.bioregional.com
Bmtrada - www.bmtrade.com
ConFor - www.confor.org.uk
Country Landowners Association - www.cla.org.uk
Dorset Agricultural Advisory Service - www.kmc.ac.uk/daas
Forestry Stewardship Certification - www.fsc.org/en/
Logpile - www.nef.org.uk/logpile
National Farmers Union - www.nfuonline.com
Royal Forestry Society - www.rfs.org.uk
Silvanus Trust - www.silvanustrust.org.uk
Somerset Trust for Sustainable Development - www.ecostrust.org.uk
UK Woodland Assurance Scheme – www.ukwas.org.uk
Woodland Initiatives Network - www.woodland.net.countryside.gov.uk
Funding
Bio-energy Capital Grant Scheme – www.defra.gov.uk/farms/crops/industrial/energy/capitalgrants
Bio-energy Infrastructure Scheme - www.defra.gov.uk/farms/crops/industrial/energy
Carbon Trust - www.carbontrust.co.uk
Centre for Sustainable Energy - www.cse.org.uk
Renewable Energy Association - www.r-p-a.org.uk

Section 7
Publications
Natural England
Kirby, K & Goldberg, E. 2002/03. Ancient woodland: guidance material for local authorities:
English Nature. Peterborough.
English Nature. 1997. Local Authorities: the protection and management of ancient
woodland. English Nature research report no 250. Peterborough
Radford, E. 1998. The restoration of replanted ancient woodland. English Nature Research
Report. Peterborough
Reid, H. 2000. Veteran Trees Management Handbook. English Nature. Peterborough
English Nature. 1995. Growing in confidence: understanding people's perceptions of urban
fringe woodlands. English Nature report. Peterborough.
Kirby, K & Rush, A. 1994. Sustainable forestry and nature conservation: slow steps in the right
direction? English Nature. Peterborough.
Dawson, D. 1994. Are habitat corridors conduits for animals and plants in a fragmented
landscape? English Nature report. Peterborough.
Forestry Commission
The management of semi-natural woodlands: 2. lowland beech–ash woods. Practice Guide.
Forestry Commission 28 pages. 0855385812 Stock code:FCPG002
The management of semi-natural woodlands: 3. lowland mixed broadleaved woods.
Practice Guide. Forestry Commission 28 pages. 0855385813 Stock code:FCPG003
The management of semi-natural woodlands: 8. wet woodlands. Practice Guide. Forestry
Commission, 28 pages. 0855385871 Stock code:FCPG008
Mayle B. 1999. How many deer? A guide to estimating deer population size. Field
Guide/Book, Forestry Commission, 96 pages. 0855384050
Edwards; C. 2006. Managing and controlling invasive rhododendron. FC Practice Guide.; 36
pages. 0-85538-704-1 Stock code:FCPG017
Harmer, R. 2000. Natural regeneration in broadleaved woodlands: deer browsing and the
establishment of advance regeneration. Information Note 035, Forestry Commission.
085538526X Stock code:FCIN035
Gill, R M A . 2000. The impact of deer on woodland biodiversity. Information Note, Forestry
Commission. 0855385278 Stock code:FCIN036
Bell, S 1998. Forest design planning: a guide to good practice. Practice Guide. Forestry
Commission; 76 pages. 0855383623 Stock code:FCPG0122002104
Woodland Trust
The conservation and restoration of plantations on ancient woodland sites. Conservation
Practice Publication. The Woodland Trust. Grantham.
Ancient Tree Guides - Trees and Farming. Conservation Practice Publication. The Woodland
Trust. Grantham
Looking after Woodland. Conservation Practice Publication. The Woodland Trust. Grantham
Urban Woodland Management series; Damage and misuse; Litter and fly-tipping; Complaints
and queries; Tree planting and woodland creation; Thinning and felling. Conservation
Practice Publication. The Woodland Trust. Grantham
Pryor, S.N. and Jackson,T.J.F. 2002.The cost of restoring planted ancient woodland sites.
Conservation Practice Publication. The Woodland Trust. Grantham
Marren, P. 1992. The Wild Woods: A Regional Guide to Britain’s Ancient Woodland. David &
Charles. London.
45

Section 7
Appendix 1-
Key Strategic Links -
Policies and Strategies
46
International
Kyoto Protocol
In 1997, worldwide governments agreed on the Kyoto Protocol. To date 173 parties have
ratified the protocol. It established legally binding targets for the reduction of greenhouse
gases emitted by industrial countries. Under the protocol, all industrial countries are required
to reduce their collective greenhouse gas emissions by just over 5.2 per cent from 1990 levels
by 2008–12. As part of this, the UK Government made a commitment to reduce greenhouse
gases by 12.5 per cent by 2008–12 and, in addition, to move towards a target of a 20 per cent
reduction of carbon dioxide emissions by 2010.
National
England Strategy for Trees, Woods and Forests.
This Strategy sets out the Government’s vision for England’s tree and woodland resource, in
both rural and urban areas, over the next fifty years. The priorities are to make sure that
trees and woodlands play their part in meeting Government’s goals for natural resources,
climate change, improved urban environments and a better quality of life for all. Five aims
have been identified:
• to protect and enhance natural resources;
• to secure trees and woodlands for future generations;
• to ensure resilience to climate change;
• to increase the contribution that trees, woods and forests make to quality of life; and
• to improve the competitiveness of woodland businesses and products.
UK Energy White Paper
This national policy places renewable energy at the heart of the Government’s energy policy
and their approach to climate change. It makes reducing carbon emissions a priority of
energy policy and reinforces the importance of the national target for 10% of the UK’s
electricity to come from renewable sources by 2010, and sets out to double this by 2020.
UK Woodland Assurance Scheme (UKWAS)
The UK Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS) is a certification standard which sets out the
requirements which woodland owners and managers and certification authorities can use to
certify woodland management in the United Kingdom. UKWAS has similar requirements for
Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) certification. The standard is the product of an inclusive
and transparent process which has involved a balanced representation from the UK forestry
and environmental community.
UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP)
The UK BAP is the Government's response to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
signed in 1992. The UK BAP describes the UK's biological resources and commits a detailed
plan for the protection of these resources. The UK BAP comprises 391 Species Action Plans
(SAP's), 45 Habitat Action Plans (HAP's) and 162 Local Biodiversity Action Plans with targeted
actions
England Woodfuel Strategy
This strategy provides a structure for Government interventions necessary to achieve a target
of bringing an additional 2 million tonnes (Mt), annually, by 2020. The strategy recommends
what type and where these interventions are necessary to achieve optimum impact of both
existing and new resources. This is a broad direction for delivery ahead of a detailed
national implementation plan.
DEFRA – England Rural Development Programme (ERDP)
The RDPE is the basis for land-based schemes to provide financial incentives for land
managers (particularly foresters and farmers) to adopt more sustainable land management
practices. The RDPE provides agri-environment grant schemes as well as project-based rural
business schemes.
Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC)
The Forest Stewardship Council promotes environmentally appropriate, socially beneficial,
and economically viable management of the world's forests. FSC certified forests are
managed to ensure long term timber supplies while protecting the environment and the
lives of forest-dependent peoples. FSC is one of a number of certification schemes. Better
stick with UKWAS.
Planning Policy Statement 9 (PPS 9)
PPS9 sets out planning policies on protection of biodiversity and geological conservation
through the planning system. These policies complement, but do not replace or override,
other national planning policies and should be read in conjunction with other relevant
statements of national planning policy. This PPS replaces Planning Policy Guidance Note 9
(PPG9) on nature conservation published in October 1994.
Planning Policy Statement 22 (PPS 9)
PPS 22 sets out planning policies on renewable energies. For the purposes of this PPS,
renewable energy covers those energy flows that occur naturally and repeatedly in the
environment – from the wind, the fall of water, the movement of the oceans, from the
sun and also from biomass. Policies in this statement therefore cover technologies such
as onshore wind generation, hydro, photovoltaics, passive solar, biomass and energy crops,
energy from waste (but not energy from mass incineration of domestic waste), and landfill

Section 7
47
and sewage gas. The principles for making decisions on waste management are set out in
PPG10 (Planning and Waste Management) and Waste Strategy 2000.
Regional
Regional Spatial Strategy (Draft) (Draft RSS)
The Draft RSS is a review of the current Regional Planning Guidance for the South West
(RPG10) which is a strategic planning document that covers the whole of the South West
region and forms part of the Statutory Development Plan. It is the key document for
planning, monitoring and managing future development in the South West and will, in 2008,
replace RPG10 and the county structure plan for Dorset. The Draft RSS will be used to guide
the production of local planning strategies produced by local councils, known as Local
Development Frameworks or LDFs.
Within the Draft RSS specific issues relating to woodlands and forests, and renewable heat
are highlighted.
• Ancient and semi-natural woodlands are to be maintained at 2005 levels and expanded
wherever possible.
• Unavoidable loss of woodland should be replaced via agreements with developers and
other mechanisms.
• The wider economic use of woodlands and forests should be promoted, for example with
regards to woodfuel.
• The procurement of locally grown timber and wood products in line with the UKWAS
should be supported.
• 100% of Local Development Documents (LDD’s) to include positive policies to enable
achievement of renewable heat targets.
• There is a significant resource of forest residues that can be used for biomass heating
Regional Economic Strategy
The 10-year strategy for driving economic growth across the region has been agreed
following months of extensive consultation and debate involving hundreds of organisations
and businesses. Although the consultation has been led by the South West of England
Regional Development Agency (South West RDA), the strategy aims to give a framework in
which public, private and community bodies can plan and work towards common objectives.
Focusing on the particular needs and opportunities of the South West economy, the strategy
revolves around three main objectives. These are:
1. to raise business productivity, allowing them to become more competitive and therefore
more profitable;
2. to increase economic inclusion, so that all parts of the region - including those currently
most deprived - can benefit from increased prosperity;
3. to improve regional communications and partnership.
South West Woodland Renaissance Delivery Plan for the Region
The aims of the plan are:
• To gain public recognition and support for woodlands, forestry and its associated products
and services as important, sustainable land-use industries.
• To increase the value and contribution of the industry to the regional economy, society
and environment.
• To increase economic, technical, business and market knowledge within and about the
industry.
• To identify, codify and roll out best practice across the region.
• To seek, support and, where appropriate, implement further diversification
• Initiatives in the land-based industries resulting from EU and UK government reforms.
South West Woodfuel and Forest Strategic Economic Study
This report constitutes the first comprehensive study of the Forestry and Woodland Industry
in South West England. It examines the characteristics of woodland in the region and
provides an analysis of the different economic activities associated with it. What makes
the study particularly significant is its initial exploration of the value of non-timber uses of
woodlands and forests, including recreation, tourism, sporting activity, nature conservation,
education and healthy living. These assets have been individually valued in order to provide a
new assessment of the forestry and woodland sectors’ contribution to the regional economy.
The identification and valuation of the nontimber benefits should not be seen as exhaustive.
South West Food and Farming Delivery Plan
Whilst there are no financial resources specifically allocated to the implementation of this
Plan, it will act as a framework guiding the work of regional delivery partners. Its role is
therefore to:-
• Help implement the relevant parts of the Government’s Sustainable Farming and Food
Strategy in the South West region.
• Identify the priorities for actions which create the conditions for future generations to
prosper in the industry.
• Influence partners in the South West who have a key role to play, whether they directly
deliver, enable, facilitate or monitor.
• Facilitate cultural change within farming and food industries in response to an
increasingly market driven economy.
• Integrate with other relevant national, regional and local strategies and plans

Section 7
48
• Identify gaps and means of addressing these relevant to the farming and food industry
• Inform priorities in the W Implementation Plan of the Rural Developemnt Programme for
England 2007-2013
Towards 2015 – South West Tourism
This document details the vision for tourism in the region combined with the key issues and
priorities for action. It should be read in conjunction with the annual delivery plans for each
Brand Cluster and Destination Management Organisation.
South West Regional Woodland and Forestry Framework
This framework is the first point of focus on the future of the region’s woods and forests. It
sets out priorities for activity across public, private and voluntary sectors and details partners,
actions and resources. Could list the main themes of the SWRWFF
South West Regional Woodfuel Framework 2005
The framework promotes the sustainable management of woodlands through the promotion
and use of woodfuel, increasing direct links between communities and local woodlands to
bring environmental, economic and social benefits. This Framework aims to provide a focus
for the structure of the whole region’s woods and forests and identifies how the region can
benefit more from woods and be a better custodian of its existing woods and forests. It sets
out priorities for action for next 10 -100 years. It expands on the multifunctional role of
woodland suggesting that it should be viewed as contributing economically, environmentally,
and through tourism.
Local
Dorset AONB Management Plan
This plan identifies the key issues affecting the AONB and provides a broad policy framework
that has been adopted by the local authorities and approved by the statutory agencies. This
policy framework will help to ensure the conservation and enhancement of the AONB for
future generations. An Action Plan for 2004-9 has also been produced that sets out the
specific priority actions that will be undertaken to deliver the policies and vision. Within
the Dorset AONB Management Plan trees are seen as a major component of all landscape
types in Dorset and a valuable biodiversity resource. The Plan points to woodlands having
an increasing role in landscape improvement, biodiversity, recreation and pollution
amelioration and highlights the difficulties decreasing economic value of woodland is
having on the management of these areas.
Key issues identified relating to forestry and woodlands are:
• Decline in both quality of native woodland as a result of lack of management,
• Fragmentation of native woodlands
• Introduction of non-native species in plantations
• Decrease in economic and ecological value of woodlands
• Rising deer numbers
• Damage by disease such as Dutch Elm Disease
• The need to a healthy, local market for timber products
• The need to identify new woodland plantings that combine ecological, social, landscape
and recreational benefits.
The report also points out the issues of coniferous plantation woodland on heathland and
wetland habitats which are of national importance. The removal of these trees and the
linking of priority non-wooded habitats through the re-creation of open ground of high
nature conservation value is widely accepted, but with a targeted and paced approach.
The woodland, tree and forest strategy will provide the backbone for woodland related
issues in the AONB management plan, which is currently under review.
Landscape Character Assessments
Landscape Character Assessments identify and describe the characteristic features of a
landscape through the identification of landscape character types and provide guidelines
on how to manage change relevant to each character type. They provide a framework and
information base from which sustainable planning and management can be developed.
With the ever increasing emphasis on sustainable development landscape character
assessment is an extremely important tool for making informed decisions, in particular
for identifying new planting, creation of habitat linkages and management of existing
woodlands and forests.
Cranborne Chase AONB Management Plan
This plan completed in 2004 identifies 7 key aims ranging from landscape through to
sustainable rural communities. For each aim the key issues have been identified and
objective given to progress their management.
The plan identified the following key issues relating to forestry and woodlands:
• Low commercial value of timber leading to lack of management
• The viability of coppice management
• Lack of management leading to a decline in characteristic landscape features
• Ongoing loss of veteran trees coupled with a decline in ancient broad-leaved oak
woodland
• Decline in wet woodland
• A need to restore planted ancient woodland sites
• Inappropriate new planting causing loss of other important habitats

Section 7
49
Dorset Biodiversity Strategy
This strategy was prepared by the Dorset Biodiversity Partnership and provides a strategic
framework for action for biodiversity and to help, direct and co-ordinate initiatives that will
conserve and enhance the species and habitats important to Dorset. There is a Topic Action
Plan for Forestry and Woodland Management, which recommends action to conserve and
enhance biodiversity through integrated management. There is also a section on Wood
Pasture, Parkland and Veteran Trees.
Three specific woodland types identified for action are priority habitats within Dorset:
• Take forward our existing shared vision for Dorset of “A living thriving Dorset where
everyone has a part to play in creating a better quality of life.”
• Produce a clear statement of the unique strategic agenda for Dorset that provides a focus
for the energy and resources of partners.
• Provide a major driver for the strategic plans of all partner organisations and the
negotiation of Dorset’s next Local Area Agreement.
• Articulate the particular needs of Dorset in order to influence regional and national plans.
• Motivate existing and potential partners to be involved and work together for the benefit
of Dorset.
• lowland mixed deciduous woodland,
• wet woods and
• lowland beech and yew woodlands.
The objectives include enhancing quality and quantity of the resource. Parkland and wood
pastures are also important priority habitats and have been included within this study as
have the surveys on veteran trees.
Dorset Renewable Energy Strategy
The Dorset Renewable Energy Strategy aims to identify the potential resource and key
opportunities and actions to harness renewable heat within the county. It also facilitates the
delivery of the renewable energy target for 2010 that was adopted through the REvision
2010 process.
Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP)
Opportunities to explore and enjoy woodlands are best provided by rights of way or places
with rights of access. For many residents of Dorset these two aspects are regarded as
important components of 'quality of life', and they are a key attraction for visitors. Any
plans for access clearly have to respect aims set out in, for example, the AONB or Biodiversity
Plans, as well as those dealing with related heritage, cultural or environmental issues.
By the end of 2007 the County Council will have a Rights of Way Improvement Plan that sets
out what needs to be done over the next 5 -10 years. This plan will focus on access to the
countryside and informal recreation needs and priorities.
The Sustainable Community Strategy for Dorset, 2007-2016
The Dorset Strategic Partnership has led the revision of the Community Strategy looking
ahead to 2016. The revised Strategy builds on our existing shared vision for Dorset and
work through the Local Area Agreement, the Partnership theme groups and local community
partnerships. This updated strategy aims to:

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Appendix 2 -
Description of Key Issues
50
Legislation
The main Acts for protection of biodiversity in England and Wales are the Wildlife and
Countryside Act 1981, the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 and Planning Policy
Statement 9 (PPS 9). However, there is another layer of legislation produced at a European
level. These are European Union (EU) Directives which are produced to have effect at a
national level as regulations. There are many such regulations which have an impact on
environmental matters, the most important being the Conservation (Natural Habitats)
Regulations 1994. Containing five Parts and four Schedules, the Regulations provide for
the designation and protection of 'European sites', the protection of 'European Protected
Species' (EPS), and the adaptation of planning and other controls for the protection of
European Sites.
Under the Regulations, competent authorities i.e. any Minister, government department,
public body, or person holding public office, have a general duty, in the exercise of any of
their functions, to have regard to the EC Habitats Directive.
Climate Change
Climate change and global warming occur naturally but over extremely long periods of time.
The processes involved have been accelerated by the demands humans are putting on the
earth’s natural resources, including oil, coal, natural gas and woodland and forest
deforestation.
To try to redress this balance the Government is encouraging the use of ‘biomass’ to produce
heat and power along with other measures to reduce carbon emissions and better utilise
renewable energy resources such as solar, hydro wind.
The trees, forests and woodlands of Dorset have a role to play in reducing the impact of
climate change. The challenge is to protect what we have, and ensure we can adapt to the
new threats and opportunities that climate change will bring while still maintaining and
expanding a sustainable forest and woodland resource.
Landscape
Trees and woodlands are a feature of many parts of the Dorset landscape. There has
long been a social and cultural connection with trees and woodlands in the landscape with
tremendous benefits in terms of influencing the general quality of life for local people, and
underpinning a significant part of tourism industries
Landscape is many things to many people. The landscape of Dorset as it is today has been
shaped by thousands of years of human interaction with the environment. Geological
formations and natural process created landforms and which have been shaped by humans
into distinctive landscapes. Landscapes are valued by people for many different reasons.
It provides habitats for wildlife, a cultural record of how our ancestors lived and utilised its
resources and in many cases provides an economic resource, whether from farming or
forestry, or by contributing to a sense of identity, well-being and enjoyment and attracting
businesses and tourism.
In recent years the assessment of landscape character has played an ever-increasing role in
aiding decision making. Its role is to help ensure that development and change does not
undermine but enhances what is valued or characteristic about any landscape, and is an
important tool in planning and management for the future.
Biodiversity
Any land management system, or lack of one, will have an impact on tree and woodland
biodiversity, whether it is intensive conifer forestry, coppice management, pollarding,
continuous cover management, non/minimal intervention or left as natural reserves. The
key to successful biodiversity management is identifying your objectives ad applying the
appropriate management practices.
With any type of management protecting wildlife value and biodiversity is a key objective.
There are many factors that influence the management of trees and woodland including
personal objectives of the landowner, current and previous management practices, species
present and their conservation value/status, economics and funding.
• Identifying the appropriate sustainable management prescriptions for trees and
woodlands can be a complex task with more than one ‘right’ answer. However, without a
sustainable management plan it is almost impossible to achieve objectives. Identifying
primary woodland use should not be undertaken without considering links to secondary
woodland use. For example the primary use may be coppicing/timber production but
secondary uses could include wildlife, shooting, recreation, education or a combination of
these and others.
Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites (PAWS)
PAWS are sites that have a long history (since 1600 at least) of woodland cover. They are
ancient semi-natural woodlands on which the original, “native” woodland was either
enriched or cleared, and replaced by a plantation of either native or exotic species. Between
the 1930s and the early 1980s nearly 40% of ancient semi-natural woodlands were converted
into plantations, most of which were of non-native coniferous species.

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51
PAWS restoration is a high priority within Dorset (and England) and with the realisation that
many PAWS retain species and composition of previous ‘natural’ woodlands. A key economic
driver is the England Woodland Grant Scheme.
The main aim of PAWS restoration is to encourage and create suitable conditions for the
regeneration and extension of native woodland cover. Restoring PAWS to native woodland,
using appropriate management systems, will increase and enhance biodiversity. Guidance
suggests that restoration should be undertaken in slow stages, preferably using continuous
cover to achieve woodland conditions and ecosystems. However, there are exceptions to
this where invasive species are present or existing tree species do not reflect the natural
woodland type. In these situations Species there is a case for removing these species in
one operation to eliminate or reduce their impact.
Sustainable Management
In some situations, it is important to leave woodlands unmanaged to increase their
biodiversity value, such as in the case of wet alder woodlands. In other situations, a lack
of management or inappropriate management is a particular problem such as increasing in
shade from lack of management, competition with introduced invasive or exotic species such
as rhododendron and over-grazing by deer all have an adverse effect upon important
woodland flora and fauna.
Many of Dorset’s woodlands suffer from inappropriate management, whether intentional or
otherwise, and is the most significant issue facing the health and condition of many of the
county’s woodlands. Almost all woodland benefits from management of some kind, even
if the management is minimal or non intervention. If left some woodland types become
subject to detrimental changes, with loss of desirable benefits to wildlife, timber value,
recreation and landscape. Generally a holistic, integrated approach works best, unless
there is an overriding objective to manage for timber, recreation or biodiversity.
• There are varying degrees of neglect, and there are instances where ‘managed’ neglect
or minimum-intervention can be beneficial, in particular for lower plants, lichens and
bryophytes, bats and hole nesting birds
Size
Woodland size can be related to the economic value and ecological value. Small woodlands
are not of a size to be self-sustaining ecological units and lack economic value. Small loads
are difficult to sell, haulage costs are increasing and sensitive and sympathetic use of modern
machinery makes working costs higher, and in many cases in Dorset access to the woodlands
is very difficult. These and other factors such as lack of a ready, local market combine to
generate a proportionally high cost of operations with little return, which in most cases only
leaves the option of non-management of the woodland.
Management, Evaluation and Perception
In the past Dorset’s woodlands have been intensively managed and were a financial asset to
their owners, and because they had a financial value they were managed for greatest gain.
Today, many woodlands are no longer deemed economic in terms of wood and timber,
therefore the perception is that they have no value. However, woodlands can be valued
other than financially such as for biodiversity, recreation, sporting and contribution to the
character of the landscape. The actual value of woodland is closely linked with the owner,
and their personal aspirations from it, whether sporting, timber, conservation or recreation
(or a mixture of uses).
Timber, recreation, sporting, education and woodfuel all have a part to play in today’s
woodland management. Managing for each objective would not necessarily increase the
economic value of woodland to a point where it becomes cost-effective. Combining
different activities without compromising their objectives is achievable if well planned and
managed. Woodlands with a clear objective are productive, whether it be woodfuel, timber,
sporting etc, and become more valuable financially, for wildlife and more enjoyable.
Archaeology
Trees, woods, forests, wood pastures, parklands, orchards and commons have a long
association with human activity and many types of archaeological feature are directrly
related to the management of tree covered landscapes.
Features ad sites forming part of the historic environment provide the tools with which we
can understand our past. They are a finite, non-renewable resource and once lost can never
be replaced. To allow the interpretation nd study of the historic environment by future
generations, management to ensure its preservation is required whenever possible. Many
people have a strong affinity towards the human past and archaeological trails are very
popular as walkers try to imagine the lifestyle of their ancestors.
Any archaeological evidence within a woodland directly associated with its history requires
sensitive management to allow it to be conserved appropriately. Such features provide a link
to the wood's history and potentially that of surrounding settlements thus increasing the
woods cultural and social value.
Examples of historical woodland features include:
• Wood banks, deer leaps and Park Pales
• Charcoal platforms
• Saw pits
• Ancient coppice stools
• Ancient Pollards
• Veteran trees.

Section 7
Appendix 2 -
Description of Key Issues
52
Archaeological evidence is a major component of the historic landscape. The types of
archaeological remains found within Britain’s woods and forests (often pre-dating the
woodland) are diverse and include:
• Extant features - Earthworks, cairns, standing stones, buildings and industrial remains
• Subsurface features - Post-holes, buried soils and occupation layers
• Scatters - Including pottery, flint and other mineral
Woodland is significant in this context in that it is unploughed land, and can preserve
archaeological evidence that has often been lost in surrounding agricultural land. However,
that archaeological resource in woodland is often under-recorded, as many such records are
based on aerial survey.
The best management of a site is dependent upon many factors, all of which need to be
considered when developing management plans. The major difficulty is usually identifying
any relevant features and locating them on the ground is problematic. Every site or feature
will need some degree of management to minimise the risks of any damage. Examples of
some management issues are outlined below.
• Maintaining Tree Cover - The retention of tree cover may also be desirable for its own
historical value. For example where archaeological evidence is directly associated with
past woodland management or sites occur in areas of ancient woodlands. With sensitive
management, tree cover upon or surrounding suitable types of archaeological site could
provide long term, low cost, physical protection. To maintain tree cover whilst minimising
the risk of damage to any archaeological evidence, some form of active forest operation
such as thinning or harvesting will be required during the tree’s lifetime
• Tree removal - On some sites, there will be a need for tree removal or crown reduction.
The most frequently quoted example of removal is where mature trees are at risk from
windthrow. However, the effects of tree removal must also be considered, as it will cause
change in the surrounding environment and may have unforeseen impacts upon the
remaining archaeology.
• Site-specific management - The types of archaeology found within forests or woodlands
are very diverse and of varying degrees of importance. Similarly, the site conditions in
which they are found and the local flora and fauna also differ greatly. With such
variation, general recommendations on site management are difficult.
• New Planting – Sites containing part or all of an ancient monument, whether scheduled
or not, should not be planted on, and have a buffer of at least 20 metres. Where
planting occurs within the immediate vicinity of an ancient monument the choice of tree
species must be carefully considered. The English Woodland Grant Scheme and
Environmental Impact Regulations require consultation with archaeologists.
Woodland Economics (The role of woodlands and woodland products in the current and
future economies)
The rise in awareness and concern of the effects of global warming and the UK’s
commitment to sustainable energy and a low carbon economy means there are significant
opportunities for the revival of woodland management through reducing CO2 emissions
and the effects of global warming.
The decline in woodland management can be attributed to reduced economic value of
timber and traditional woodland products. Over the last 20 years timber prices have been in
decline and imports have increased, making the economic benefits of felling timber less and
less. During 2006 prices have risen due to international trading conditions and those
woodland owners that have continued to manage their woods and forests are now
seeing benefits of higher returns
In Dorset, coppice products such as charcoal, thatching spars and hurdles are increasingly
being imported. Very often these are inferior in both the quality of materials and the
craftsmanship, and in some instances some products are being replaced by plastic. Imports
reduce demand for home produced coppice products and contribute to both the dereliction
of coppice woodlands, loss of coppice craftsmen and ultimately impact negatively on the
condition of woodlands.
Contractors, managers and woodland owners are, and have been under pressure for a
number of years due to low timber prices, and many contractors have gone out of business
and the number of woodland/forest managers has reduced. In recent years there has been
a growing alternative outlet for cut timber in the form of woodfuel. This is still a relatively
new industry in the UK and Dorset (in 2006 there were two woodfuel installations in Dorset)
and as such the market has yet to be proven. This has caused reluctance for those involved
in woodland management to enter this market, especially as currently there is little financial
assistance to aid this diversification.
Deer and Non-native Species
With the threats to woodlands from intensive agriculture and development largely in
check, the greatest threats to woodland survival apart from climate change are deer and
non-native species. The European Strategy on Invasive Alien Species, invasive non-native
species are now considered to be the second greatest cause of global biodiversity loss after
direct habitat destruction.
In Dorset, deer (predominantly roe and sika with local herds of fallow) and grey squirrels are
by far the biggest animal threat and can have an enormous impact on floral and structural
diversity of woodland. Wild boar are increasing in West Dorset and are their impact on

Section 7
woodland needs to be monitored.
Rhododendron ponticum is a plant that is extremely invasive and dominates woodland to
the detriment of many other woodland species, particularly floral species. Without
appropriate management the continued increase of invasive non-native species will impose
long term changes to the composition and thus the biodiversity and economics of Dorset’s
woodlands.
In order to reduce the impact of these and other invasive species a co-ordinated, cohesive
approach needs to be adopted as well as ensuring that appropriate resources are in place
to facilitate this important aspect of woodland management.
Non-Wooded (open) Habitats
Heathlands, fens and native grasslands are important open habitat communities and all have
Habitat Action Plans relating to them. These habitats have been lost to agriculture, forestry,
mineral extraction and development. In Dorset the planting of conifers on heathlands had
led to a significant loss of this habitat type in the county although corridors and fragments
survived within the plantations. Today planting of conifers on heathlands and grasslands has
stopped and much work has been undertaken to restore sites to their former habitat type.
However, without a concerted, pro-active effort to manage these habitats they will continue
to be lost to the natural regeneration of trees and scrub..
Within the ‘heathland’ areas of East Dorset and Purbeck there are a number of ancient
woodland sites. These are extremely important, and very diverse, woodlands. They tend
to be situated where there is a change in the underlying soils and geology, usually on the
boundaries of the sandy soils of the heaths and the chalk soils of the valley slopes. For this
reason they are extremely biodiverse as they support species and populations associated with
both types of soils and geology.
Forestry plantations also play an important part in supporting the flora and fauna associated
with heathlands and grasslands. The term ‘forest’ describes the old hunting forests of the
past, which were made up of woodlands with large open heath and grassland areas, such as
the New Forest. Today’s forestry can, to a degree, re-create this mosaic of habitats through
restructuring the forest by clear-felling and thinning. This provides a diversity of age
structure and habitats within a large area, thus supporting a rich and varied population
of flora and fauna species.
The restoration and management of non-wooded habitats does not necessitate the complete
removal of trees. When considering the re-creation of non-wooded habitats, consideration
needs to be given to the habitat type and whether the retention of woodland or forest is
appropriate for biodiversity or landscape reasons. They provide a diversity of habitat,
species and structure, as well as replicating the successional stages that open habitats would
undergo through natural processes. These woodlands are particularly important to flora
and insect species and the species that depend on them, such as nightjars (Caprimulgus
europaeus) which use the woodland and forest edges to forage.
Fragmentation
Until quite recently new woodland plantings haven’t been managed strategically, this has led
to a fragmented woodland landscape made up of many small individual woodlands
Habitat fragmentation at a variety of scales has been widely linked with the decline of many
species globally. Over recent decades there has been a recorded decline in the biodiversity of
many semi-natural woodlands and open habitats despite protection through designations
such as Sites of Special Scientific Interest and National Nature Reserves. The long-term
viability of woodland biodiversity, which evolved within a highly connected and extensive
habitat, is threatened by fragmentation of habitats and landuse, as it leads to smaller and
more isolated woodlands.
Fragmentation or isolation of veteran trees is also an issue as micro habitats and associated
species have little chance of colonising elsewhere. The number of truly ancient trees in
Dorset is quite small (Cooch, pers.comm.) and those old veterans that will become the new
ancient trees are often badly managed, cut down or blow over. More tree planting and
identification of future veteran and ancient trees needs to be undertaken.
Ecologists advocate the maintenance and improvement of connectivity between fragmented
woodland populations, with growing interest in the use of habitat networks to reverse the
effects of fragmentation by expanding and linking isolated habitats. Britain's woodland,
which may have once covered up to 75% of the land area, has been fragmented to such a
degree that less than 5% remained by the beginning of the 19th Century. Afforestation
throughout the 20th Century has increased woodland cover, however the ancient seminatural
remnant woodlands remain largely fragmented: new plantations provide
unfavourable habitat for characteristic woodland specialists, and are spatially unconstrained
while the surrounding matrix is often intensively managed, remaining unsuitable for
woodland species dispersal.
Species conservation through habitat networks has developed rapidly since the signing
of the Convention on Biological Diversity 1992. This has prompted some international
acceptance and emerging agreement of the need to conserve biological diversity using
an approach which includes the planning, establishment and adaptive management of
protected-area networks (Forestry Commission Information Note 073)
53

Section 7
Appendix 2 -
Description of Key Issues
54
New Plantings
Linking, extending and buffering existing woods (particularly ancient woodlands) through
well designed new plantings will become increasingly important, particularly as climate
change may exacerbate extinction of ancient woodland species. These species are in general
very specific in their environmental requirements but by creating links, buffers and extensions
the chances of species being able to migrate between suitable habitats is increased
New planting should be approached at ideally a landscape scale, taking into account the
interactions between other habitats, land uses and landscape characteristics and should be
advantageous to the wider ecosystem needs and enrich existing woodland sites to further
local resources..
New plantings also have a role to play in urban and suburban settings. They can provide
shelter to houses, create a sense of wellbeing and provide education and recreation
opportunities for local communities. They are robust habitats and can be used to mitigate
or ameliorate many types of development. This paragraph needs to mention Green
Infrastructure and generally be given more prominence – proximity to people is a key factor
in investing in new woodland.
Access & Recreation & Communities
With the increasing need for more recreational opportunities as populations grow there is a
need to identify and utilise multi-functional woodland areas. Woodland habitats tend to be
more ‘robust’ than some others habitat types, and when in a peri-urban landscape they are
capable of absorbing high numbers of people and their associated pressures.
In the heathland areas of south and east Dorset, also where the major conurbations are
situated, woodland and forest provides an ideal opportunity to ‘relieve’ some of the
demands put on heathlands created by very high demand for access.
In 2004 the Woodland Trust produced the Space for People report which set out the
Woodland Trust’s analysis of access to woodland in the UK. This was the first time such a survey
and analysis had been undertaken, and, although not policy, the results will aid local
planning authorities to set targets for open space based on local need and opportunity.
Currently under review Natural England's Accessible Natural Greenspace Standards require:
• that no person should live more than 300m from their nearest area of natural greenspace
of at least 2ha in size
• provision of at least 1ha of Local Nature Reserve per 1,000 people
• that there should be at least one accessible 20ha site within 2km from home
• that there should be one accessible 100ha site within 5km.
• that there should be one accessible 500ha site within 10k
From this the Woodland Trust developed The Woodland Trust Woodland Access
Standard which aspires:
• that no person should live more than 500m from at least one area of accessible woodland
of no less than 2ha in size
• that there should also be at least one area of accessible woodland of no less than 20ha
within 4km (8km roundtrip) of people’s homes.
The graph below shows the first results from the Woodland Trust Space for People report,
broken down into the districts and boroughs of Dorset.
% population with
access to a 2ha+
wood within 500m
% population with
access to a 20ha
wood within 4km
% extra population with
access to a 2ha+ wood
within 500m if existing
woods opened
% population with
access to a 20ha wood
within 4km if existing
woods opened
Christchurch
East Dorset
North Dorset
Purbeck
West Dorset
Weymouth & Portland
% population requiring
new woodland for
access to a 2ha+
wood within 500m
% population requiring
new woodland for access
to a 20ha wood
within 4km
Woodland Trust Results for the Provision of Woodland
Access and TArgets for Woodland Creation in Dorset
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0

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55
Woods and forests have the potential to provide an excellent resource for tourism, physical
activity and enjoyment of the countryside, and as a potential resource for learning and
education for all ages. Walking the Way to Health, Active Woods and Space for People are
recent initiatives aimed at understanding and promoting the use of woods for healthy living.
There is an increasing need for people to learn and experience the natural world and
understand the biodiversity around them in order to encourage sustainable development.
The Forest Education Initiative and the Woodland Trust’s ‘Trees For All’ campaign highlight
the importance of connecting children and adults to the natural world.
Tourism plays a major role in Dorset and could be an important source of revenue for
woodlands. Dorset’s woods contain archaeological and cultural heritage sites and there is
also the opportunity to increase wood usage around existing tourist sites. There is potential
within Dorset to develop woodlands as areas to visit to enhance the experiences of tourists
that come from further afield. People visiting one tourist attraction may well be encouraged
to visit nearby woodland if it is well signposted and way-marked.
Education
Trees, whether individuals, veterans or grouped together as woodlands and forests provide
ideal formal and informal education and learning opportunities. Increasingly woodlands
and forests are being used as outdoor classrooms, with activities linked to the National
Curriculum, as well as for more informal education such as guided walks or forest trails. It is
important that those who are not familiar with woodland management practices understand
the processes and techniques used in order to ensure woodlands remain healthy, and all their
associated species and habitats are sustained. Raising awareness, at all ages and levels, of
woodlands and their value for biodiversity, local economies and rural employment engenders
support and a sense of pride that supports the management of woodlands.
Encouraging people to visit woodlands and interpreting what is happening, and why, is
fundamental to their understanding of the reasons woodlands are managed and why the
woodlands of Dorset are such a valuable resource. Increased opportunities with appropriate
access are to be encouraged for educational purpose and need not be detrimental to other
woodland activities. Educating woodland users is essential.
Woodland Ownership
70% of the county woodland is in private ownership and 55% of these are less than 100
hectares. In the past many of these woodlands were worked, producing quality timber,
coppice products, and shooting. With the increase in imported timber and coppice products
many woodlands are not managed as it is uneconomic to produce timber and associated
products. With such a large proportion of Dorset’s woodlands owned and managed
individually, the complexities of achieving a structured, sustainable approach to their
management are increased. A co-ordinated, integrated approach to woodland management
is essential to ensuring their continued survival and importance for biodiversity, as well as
improving their economic value Engaging with woodland owners and understanding their
motivations would enable a targeted approach through advice, training and grant aid.
Woodland & Trees
Local planning authorities should identify any areas of ancient woodland in their areas that
do not have statutory protection (e.g. as a SSSI). They should not grant planning permission
for any development that would result in its loss or deterioration unless the need for, and
benefits of, the development in that location outweigh the loss of the woodland habitat.
Aged or ‘veteran’ trees found outside ancient woodland are also particularly valuable for
biodiversity and their loss should be avoided. Planning authorities should encourage the
conservation of such trees as part of development proposals.
Through policies in plans, local authorities should also conserve other important natural
habitat types that have been identified in the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000
section 74 list, as being of principal importance for the conservation of biodiversity in
England and identify opportunities to enhance and add to them.
Habitat Networks
Local authorities should aim to maintain networks by avoiding or repairing the
fragmentation and isolation of natural habitats through policies in plans. Such networks
should be protected from development, and, where possible, strengthened by or integrated
within it. This may be done as part of a wider strategy for the protection and extension of
open space and access routes such as canals and rivers, including those within urban areas.
Timber Production & Quality
The cost effective production of timber is greatly determined by the economies of scale
required. Other than for the Forestry Commission and some of the larger private estates,
cost effective production of timber is difficult to achieve, especially without financial aid such
as the England Woodland Grant scheme. In recent years the timber market has been very
poor, resulting in many woodland managers to delaying harvesting in the hope that the
market will improve. In 2006 timber prices improved and many owners have benefited.
Woodland owners utilise the income from timber production to achieve other woodland
orientated objectives, such as improved biodiversity, improved recreation opportunities and
improved sporting opportunities. The decline in income has an obvious knock-on effect for
the management of the forests and woodlands, and if the market does not pick up, or
alternative outlet found, many areas will go un-harvested, resulting in a loss of income and
possible further losslack of sustainable management .

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Appendix 2 -
Description of Key Issues
56
With 52% of Dorset’s woodlands under 100 hectares (and 20% of those under 10 hectares),
the economies of scale are difficult to achieve. Even where markets exist, it is difficult to
convince local wood using businesses to use locally grown timber (even though more
sustainable than timber shipped in from abroad) and the effort involved, combined with
the costs of harvesting and transport means that it becomes uneconomical.
• encouraging sustainable management of woods and forests, particularly ancient
and semi natural woods;
• creating jobs and improving economic importance in rural areas
• providing alternative uses for agricultural land
The combination of increasing interest in promoting and using local timber products,
sustainable woodland management raised awareness of certified timber production means
that there is potential to increase viable timber production. However, there are still the
economies of scale to consider. In line with the decline in timber prices, there has been a
loss of skilled, experienced workforce. Many private estates no longer have forestry ‘gangs’
and nearly all harvesting work is carried out by contractors. What is needed is a coordinated,
co-operative approach to the production, promotion, marketing and selling of
timber. Dorset, with its embryonic woodfuel market and a significant growth target for new
housing is well placed to reap the rewards of such an approach.
Timber of high quality, both conifer and broadleaf, is always likely to be in demand. For
centuries it has been used for construction, furniture and joinery. Quality timber can only be
produced by continued management of trees, woods and forests. In recent years, with the
increased costs of woodland management and a reduction in the number of professional
foresters in Dorset the production of quality timber has declined. Competition from abroad,
where good quality timber can be sourced; harvested and shipped to the UK cheaper than
it can be produced here has also had a major impact on managing for quality timber.
However, there are examples, usually within the larger estates, where continued woodland
management is producing economic, good quality timber and with it some associated
wildlife benefits.
The woodlands and forests of Dorset have the potential to produce high quality timber,
although there is no short-term solution. With increasing emphasis on sustainability and
‘carbon-miles’ there is the potential to deliver quality timber, sustainably at a local level.
This would need a co-operative approach and pro-active marketing and promotion of locally
grown timber.
England Woodland Grant Scheme (EWGS)
EWGS consists of 6 grants for the creation and stewardship of woodlands. The primary
objectives of the EWGS are to sustain and increase public derived from existing woodlands
in England and to invest in the creation of new woodlands in England of a size, type, and
location that most effectively deliver public benefits. It is envisaged that this will be
achieved by:

Appendix 3 -
Key Stakeholders
Section 7
57
All parish councils.
Bournemouth Borough Council
Butterfly Conservation
CCWWD AONB
Christchurch Borough Council
ConFor
Country Land & Business Association
Country Landowners Association
Crichel Estates Ltd.
DERC
Dorset AONB
Dorset AONB Partnership
Dorset Coppice Group
Dorset County Council
Dorset Wildlife Trust
Dorset Woodland & Forestry Forum
East Dorset District Council
Environment Agency
Euroforest
Forde Abbey Estate
Forest Enterprise
Forestry Commission
FWAG
Herpetological Conservation Trust
Knighton Countryside Management
Melbury Estates
MOD
Morden Estates
National Farmers union
National Trust
Natural England
NFU
North Dorset District Council
Poole Borough Council
Purbeck District Council
Rempstone Estate Office
Royal Forestry Society
RSPB
The National Trust
The Old Parsonage
The Silvanus Trust
Wessex Silvicultural Group
Wessex Water
West Dorset District Council
Weymouth and Portland District
Woodland Trust

Leaves © David Rees

Guelder Rose © David Rees
59

Oak Trunk © David Rees