Government forestry statement praised by CLA

Silver Forest

The CLA today (31 January) welcomed the Government’s response to the report of the Independent Forestry Panel, especially its commitment to protecting forestry and fighting tree diseases.

As the main organisation representing private forestry owners, the CLA said it was very pleased to see that the Government Forestry Policy Statement confirms the Government’s commitment to “sustaining, managing and improving our forests and woodlands so they can contribute to economic growth and benefit people and nature”.

CLA President Harry Cotterell said: “This statement of forestry policy is timely and encouraging. It is particularly good that the Government has reiterated its pledge to give a higher priority to tree and plant health than ever before with up to £8.5million found from various sources to undertake in-depth research into tree diseases.

“We are also encouraged that it includes a promise that the Government will work with landowners to increase the amount of actively managed woodland and to review this process in five years’ time.”

The CLA President also highlighted the Statement’s backing for developing the voluntary woodland carbon market to reflect forestry’s low carbon credentials, and the announcement of a pilot scheme to reduce regulatory burdens on landowners who want to plant woodland.

He added: “The Government’s plans for making forestry more commercial are commendable. Now it is vital they are implemented.

“The CLA is already engaged with Defra, the Forestry Commission, Forest Research and Fera in all areas of forestry policy. We look forward to continuing to work with the Government to deliver forestry policy.”