Forests In Britain 1 Flashcards
What percentage of the UK is under forest cover?
13.1% UK
Scotland-18.7%
England-10%
Wales-8.2%
Ireland-8.2%
Give a brief summary of british forest cover?
-Original forest cover 90%
mostly temperate decidious forest. Predominantly pine. Few trees even then on the West/NW.
- in 1800 approx 4%
- Now 13%
Why have britains forests reduced over hundreds of years?
Deforestation caused by:
-clearance for agriculture.
- clearance for housing and industrial growth.
- uncontrolled burning. Often to improve grazing for hunted animals
- grazing (sheep)
Describe the forest transition currently taking place?
Deforestation initially inevitable as population increased
deforestation ceases
slow expansion of natural forest are (regen)
government infrastructure & pressure (climate change) encouraging funding in forestry.
Why Was the forestry commission made?
Following post ww1 timber shortages, it was designed to create a “strateigic reserve of timber” in case of a second war
In 1947 what scheme was introduced?
The dedication scheme (I and II) planting grants given to landowners whos main objective was timber production
What was introduced in 1981?
Forestry Grant Scheme replaced dedication scheme. Encouraged small scale planting by giving out generous grant.
What are some of the early criticisms of British forestry?
- Converion of Aincient semi natural woodland (ASNW) to planted aincient woodland sites (PAWS)
- ploughing and planting of uplands. Loss of Mooreland.
New forests percieved as:
- lacking biodiversity
- clumps on landscape
- rows of exotic conifers (sitka)
- Damaging awuatic habitats (acidification)
What did the FC introduce in response to the conservation lobbying?
1985, Introduced the “broafleaf policy” in response to the conservation lobby.
- ban on converion of BL woodland to conifer.
- At least 5% of new BL had to be incuded in new plantations.
- Introduction of broadleave woodland grant scheme (timber production no longer only objective).
What was passed in 1991 and introduced in 1992?
1991: They extended the woodland grant scheme (WGS) timber production did NOT have to be included as an objective.
1992: Introduction of Management Grants in WGS, for providing public benefit, environmental and recreational
What was introduced in 1994?
WGS phase III, distinguished between “new planting” and “restocking.” The grants were different. Restocking grant reduced. Grants for natural regen also introduced.
What was published in 1998?
UK forest Standard (UKFS). It incorporates all previous guidelines
What was introduced in 1999?
UK woodland assurance standard (UKWAS). Aims to insure forestry is managed sustainably. Many members (national trust, forestry commission, woodland trust, rspb)
What is a forest?
It is a large uncultivated tract covered in trees and underwood. Minimum of 0.5Ha and Trees need to be taller than 5metres.
What is forestry?
The management of forests and forest lands,
for the range of goods and services
that are demanded by individuals or society.
Also defined as: “the profession dealing with understanding, managing, and
conserving forests — for whatever purpose”
