Sir,
The mishandling of grants and red-tape surrounding woodland planting is not the only reason landowners are reluctant to plant trees. (Torturous bureaucracy at root of woodland crisis, MPs say, 21/03/2017).
When introducing the woodland grant schemes the government failed to include Agroforestry as an option, where tree planting and livestock or crop production can occur simultaneously on the same piece of land.
This approach allows a continued income from agriculture whilst the trees establish, which can take several decades. Other benefits reported include reduced soil erosion, water retention and consequently flood risk; shelter, roosts and food for insects, birds and other wildlife.
We need a more integrated approach to land management if we are to reconcile the many demands we make of our landscape.
Dr Alastair Leake,
Director of Policy & Allerton Project, Allerton Project
Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust.
Woodland Management Course at the Allerton Project
The GWCT Advisory Team are running a Woodland Management Course on 4th April at the Allerton Project in Leicestershire covering important aspects of woodland management including:
- Preparing the land for planting – preparation of a woodland planting site and possible seed mixes that may be planted prior to woodland establishment.
- Woodland planting and establishment – things to consider, species, structure and planting tips.
- Woodland Management, habitat and controlling deer and grey squirrels.
- Managing woods to maximise the benefit for game and wildlife.
- Sustainable gamebird management in woodlands.
- Grants and Permissions – Countryside Stewardship Grants and how to apply. What licences and permissions are needed and when?
- Woodland Walk – This will take place in maturing plantation woodland, new plantings and semi–natural ancient woodland.
Places are limited and you can book yours here.