The Importance of Woodland Management Plans

According to Forestry Commission figures, 46% of English woodland is unmanaged or under managed. Woodland Management Plans (WMPs) are pivotal tools for sustainable woodland management. They provide clear guidelines for landowners and managers, ensuring a balanced approach to economic, ecological, and social aspects. In this article, we'll explore the significance of WMPs and how our surveyors at PFK Rural, can offer essential assistance.

Understanding Woodland Management Plans (WMPs)

WMPs are strategic documents outlining a decade or more of woodland management. They are essential for:

1. Sustainable Use: WMPs ensure responsible practices in harvesting timber, preserving biodiversity, and optimizing revenue.
2. Economic Viability: They guide revenue streams from timber sales and woodland-based activities.
3. Environmental Preservation: WMPs protect wildlife habitats and aid in carbon sequestration.
4. Legal Compliance: They meet requirements for grants and subsidies, ensuring legal adherence.
5. Future Planning: These long-term plans secure funding, attract investors, and enable contingency planning.

Our role...

PFK Rural specialises in rural surveying and can assist woodland owners in:

1. Expertise in Land Management: PFK offers in-depth knowledge of land and woodland ecosystems, ensuring sustainable land use.
2. Assessment and Planning: We can help assess woodlands, develop tailored WMPs, and identify improvement opportunities.
3. Navigating Grants and Regulations: PFK Rural guides clients through grant applications, including the Countryside Stewardship Woodland Management Plan (WMP) grants and England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO) where grants for new woodland are sought.
4. Stakeholder Engagement: PFK facilitates collaboration with stakeholders, ensuring comprehensive WMP development.

Dates to note...

Woodland Management Plan grants are available year-round. These grants offer a one-off payment for creating a 10-year UK Forestry Standard (UKFS) compliant WMP. Landowners must have an agreement in place before starting work on their WMP.

A well-structured WMP can lead to financial support based on total eligible woodland area. Grant amounts range from £1,500 for 3 to 50 hectares to £3,000 for over 100 hectares, plus per-hectare rates.

To conclude...

Woodland Management Plans are vital for sustainable woodland management, balancing economic, ecological, and social aspects. PFK Rural assists landowners in developing WMPs, navigating grants, and complying with regulations. Now is an ideal time for woodland owners to get help to invest in their woodlands and whatever ambitions you have for your woodland, PFK Rural can help unlock their full potential.