Forestry Panel calls for views

Following the second meeting of the Forestry Panel, of which I am a member, we are now looking to join in a public conversation and hear views. The Panel wants to hear as many views as possible and wants to hear of the work of the Forestry Commission, public and private forest estates, the economics of forestry, public benefits such as well being, access for leisure pursuits and the role of forests and woods, and related open habitat in the wider natural environment. In particular we need to understand:

• what forests and woods deliver for people, communities, nature and the economy;
• what it is about forests and woods that people value so much and why; and
• what works in practice and can be repeated in other locations.

More detail on specific questions the Panel would like answered can be found on the website.

Views should be sent to the Panel at forestrypanel@defra.gsi.gov.uk by 31 July.

The panel will also be making a number of visits, initially to the Forest of Dean, various woodlands in Kent and to larger forests in Northumberland including Kielder. Further visits will follow including looking at community woodlands in England.

It is really important that you as professional foresters make your views heard. Many people value our woodlands and use them for all sorts of reasons but as professional foresters we understand what makes them what they are and most importantly how they need managed to provide the multitude of benefits to society.

Remember that ICF has set up a LinkedIn group for members only and I encourage you to join in the debate either on this blog or on LinkedIn.