Friday 2 December 2011
Sunday 27 November 2011
Jubilee Woods and Tree Week 2011
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Tuesday 15 November 2011
World Heritage Forests Magazine
Issue 61 of World Heritage quarterly magazine: World Heritage Forests
Known as the "lungs of the Earth", trees are crucial to our planet's biological balance. The United Nations designated 2011 International Year of Forests, and issue 61 of World Heritage magazine takes a closer look at a selection of the 104 World Heritage forests and the challenges they face, including Congo Basin forests (RDC), Rio Plátano Biosphere Reserve, (Honduras) Tropical Sumatran Rainforest Heritage (Indonesia), and Redwoods (USA).See the full e-version of the issue: English | French | Spanish
World Heritage is UNESCO's quarterly magazine featuring in-depth articles, news reports and key interviews with the people behind the preservation and management of the world's most outstanding sites. Stunning photographs present monuments, cities, natural parks and landscapes from around the globe. This magazine is particularly designed to reflect and enhance UNESCO's dedication to World Heritage sites: our legacy from the past, our responsibility for the present and our duty to future generations.
Forest Commission England to Merge with Natural England?
Looking at the recent changes at FC Wales and FC Scotland is there a forgone conclusion that the FC England Consultation Process will suggest a merger with the Environment Agency or Natural England?
Confor has been fighting for FC Wales to retain its independence, in the face of proposals to merge it with Environment Agency and Countryside Council Wales.
Merger will see forestry policy and delivery, as well as the public forest estate, dominated by a department focused on environmental regulation - restricting activity rather than enabling. It is also likely to lead to the break-up of the Forestry Commission and threaten key resources such as Forest Research.
Confor has led opposition, briefing Assembly Members, securing continued media coverage and challenging the weak business case developed by senior civil servants. We have also worked with other industry organisations to ensure there is a common front.
Kath has set up this petition. Please sign it and email on to your colleagues, friends and family.
http://www.petitiononline.co.uk/petition/keep-forestry-commission-wales-independent/3757
Kath McNulty, Confor's Wales manager, reports:
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=369
FC Scotland reorganisation
FC Scotland Director, Dr Bob McIntosh has been appointed to head a new Environment and Forestry department.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=370
Confor calls for forestry regulation report to be implemented
The Forestry Regulation Task Force, established by the minister in response to a request by Confor, delivered its final report and recommendations to government, in October.
The report, Challenging assumptions, changing perceptions, challenges government to look at the way the forestry sector is regulated and is the culmination of nine months' work gathering information, engaging with interested parties and seeking views. The Task Force makes 15 key recommendations, 26 recommendations and a further 14 recommendations to improve existing processes.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=371
Confor puts pressure on GLA
Confor has upped its lobbying effort for forestry to be excluded from the requirement to be licensed under the Gangmasters Licensing Act. With this position supported by the Forest Regulation Task Force, Confor has now sent a recent report on the GLA to key politicians.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/News.aspx?pid=23&id=988
Confor meets ministers on renewables and new planting
Confor chief executive Stuart Goodall and chair Colin Mann participated in a series of constructive industry meetings with Scottish ministers Fergus Ewing and Stewart Stevenson, who have responsibility for energy and forestry policy, respectively, and with UK energy minister Charles Hendry who has responsibility for the Renewables Obligation.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=373
Confor contributes to debate on England's forests
Forestry has rarely had a higher profile in England, but public debate has focused almost exclusively around the issue of ownership of the public forest estate (PFE). Websites such as the ‘Save Our Forest' site provide an interactive forum for discussion and the emergence of the ‘Our Forests' initiative provides a welcome new contribution to the debate, both beginning a process of looking at the important wider issues around forestry in England. In order to contribute to this emerging debate, Confor has now published on its website the first three of a series of papers on forestry in England.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/News.aspx?pid=23&id=965
Confor hosts Defra forestry team
Staff from across Defra's forestry team spent an informative day discussing financially sustainable forestry during visits to forests in southeast England organised at the invitation of Confor.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=375
Update on energy policy
The Scotland and UK Governments' long gestation of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) finally seems to be coming to an end, while the refining of the Renewables Obligation (RO) continues, with banding and rates under consultation. The overwhelming focus of government policy so far, through the RO, has been on electricity generation from windfarms and carbon capture technologies, with biomass seen, by Westminster at least, as part of the large base-load electricity generation mix. With the RHI, renewable heat is now being targeted.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=376
Confor welcomes revised UK Forestry Standard and Guidelines
The revised UK Forestry Standard and associated Forestry Guidelines have just been released after years of consultation and development. Confor has been involved in the process from the outset and generally welcomes the revisions. The documents set out the statutory framework for forestry, along with best practice guidance.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=377
Latest update on P ramorum:
Flight surveys have stopped for the winter, but compliance monitoring continues. The big news is the confirmed outbreak centred around Loch Dornal in Dumfries and Galloway. FC Scotland intends to designate the whole of Galloway as Zone 1, given real concern over the potential extent of the existing infection. Further sites in the vicinity are being inspected, and we can expect a changing scene.
Confor has been in liaison with FC Scotland on the response, including local controls and communication.
Note: A Sitka spruce on the site which had showed signs, has been confirmed as NOT P ramorum - seemingly, it is an algae.
FC is moving ahead with a composting trial in East Anglia: 500m3 will be heat treated for six to eight weeks, perhaps followed by full composting for another six weeks.
Authorised mills and agents are listed at: www.forestry.gov.uk/forestry/INFD-876D2B
Plant health action plan
Caroline Spelman, environment secretary, recently announced an action plan to combat the exotic pests and diseases threatening the health of Britain's trees.
People trying to bring potentially infected plants and cuttings into the UK will face more-robust enforcement, and the government is putting £7m into research on combating new or exotic tree and plant pathogens.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=379
More disease
Fungus-like pathogen Phytophthora lateralis has been found in a Lawson cypress hedge in Plymouth. The disease is most common in western states of the US and Canada but there have also been outbreaks in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=380
Where next with conifers?
Confor needs your help - it will only take 5-10 minutes to respond.
In the light of pests and diseases, as well as climate change, James Hepburne Scott, of Alba Trees plc, is leading a Confor survey to find out members' views on species selection. Please take time to answer four questions.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=381
Views wanted on tree planting in Scotland
Dr Andrew Barbour, chairman of the Woodland Expansion Advisory Group, has called for views from across Scotland on how best to take forward woodland expansion. Confor is represented on the 18-strong group of farmers, foresters, conservation, community and land experts, which has been tasked with the job of providing Scottish ministers with advice on identifying which types of land are best for tree-planting.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=382
Confor works on woodland expansion in Scotland
Again, Confor is asking for your help. There are just two simple questions.
As part of ongoing efforts to further the delivery of more commercial softwood planting, both as new woodland creation and at time of restock, Confor is setting up a task & finish group to assist input to the Woodland Expansion Advisory Group (above), and also to the general promotion of industry's requirements.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=383
Confor urges FC to support statistics
Confor has written to the Forestry Commission (FC) highlighting the important role of the FC's statistics unit and asking that it be given sufficient resource to undertake its important industry activity.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=384
Northern Ireland Forest Service
There is change at the top for the Northern Ireland Forest Service: Malcolm Beattie is returning to head up the Forest Service as David Small finds a new post.
Lyme disease survey - please help
This is a survey of the experience of health services of people with tick-borne infections in the UK and Ireland (Eire). It has been set up by a group called LymeResearchUk and Ireland in conjunction with the charity Tick Talk Ireland and is led by independent researcher Kate Bloor. The survey is open from 14 October 2011 and will run for eight weeks.
http://www.lymediseaseaction.org.uk/latest-news/health-services-survey/
Any questions or enquiries about using this information can be directed to lymeresearchuk@mail.com
Confor Oscars - reminder
Have you submitted your video clip for a chance of winning a cash prize? Deadline for entries is 21 December 2011.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=360
Funding available for wild venison developments
Are you involved, or would you like to be involved, with wild deer management? Are you involved with wild venison processing and marketing? There is funding for those in east England, but it is hoped to roll it out across England. Evidence is required, so if it is of interest to you, please complete the expression of interest form by end of November.
http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=389
Nuffield scholarships
The closing date for applications for the 2012/13 Nuffield scholarships is 15 November 2011. Jez Ralph has just completed one and says: "It is a huge opportunity to see forestry across the world and a shame that more foresters do not take advantage of it. I'm happy for anyone to contact me to discuss it." Jez.Ralph@silvanus.org.uk http://www.nuffieldscholar.org/
EVENTS
Confor events:
International Forestry Exhibition 2012, at Ragley Estate, Alcester, Warwickshire, on 13-15 September 2012. Following a record-breaking first exhibitor site meeting in October, the next one is 10 November 2011. http://www.apfexhibition.co.uk/
Other events: http://www.confor.org.uk/NewsAndEvents/Default.aspx?pid=388
Monday 19 September 2011
Woodland Trust and Forestry News Update
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Since the start of the year the Woodland Trust has achieved some major national successes in our role as the voice for woods and trees. But as always your support has played a major part in this. This special edition of our newsletter highlights how together we have made such a difference to woodland protection. | |||||||||
Planning to threaten your ancient woods and trees!Over 11,500 of you helped save the existing wording around protection of ancient trees and woods when the Government reduced over 1000 pages of planning policy to just 52. Thank you - it was an amazing achievement, yet still more needs to be done to remove the damaging loophole in the draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). This new document currently out for consultation will allow development 'if the need for and benefits of development in that location clearly outweigh the loss' basically, economics trumps environment. Read our blog and learn more about the Woodland Trust's views Loss of ancient woods and ancient trees is not acceptable. We want to help Government to achieve its goal of creating clear planning guidance by simply removing the loophole. We have had an emergency meeting with the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) telling them of our concerns over their presumption in favour of sustainable development. They have asked us to suggest alternative wording. Take part in our quick poll - should the Government remove the loophole? Because you were so influential in getting the wording secured please back up our call to remove the loophole. If Government doesnt hear us en masse and as loudly as possible through its own channels, it could give them the excuse to disregard what's said. This is our only opportunity to secure and strengthen protection for ancient woods and trees in the planning system. | |||||||||
What next for the Independent Forestry Panel?Over 4,000 Woodland Trust supporters did an amazing job in sharing with the Independent Forestry Panel their vision for the future of our woodland. Thank you so much for being the voice of woods and trees. The Panel received over 40,000 submissions in total, which they will now use to help create an interim report to Government about the future direction of forestry and woodland policy in England. The report is due in November. As you would expect, we submitted our own distinctive viewpoint. You can read our official submission and what's next for the Independent Forestry Panel on our website. | |||||||||
High Speed 2 next stop your local ancient woodThe Woodland Trust made sure that our voice was heard during the public consultation about the Government's proposed route plans for a high speed rail. In addition 6,500 of you signed our petition that helped shape our response. It's clear that our submission echoes many national concerns over the High Speed 2 (HS2) route. Our key points focussed on the high level of damage to 21 ancient woodlands along the route. The consultation may have closed but you can still have a voice. Our interactive map will show you the woods under threat. Let us know what you think about the plans. You can read our submission and use our interactive HS2 map via the campaigning section of our website. | |||||||||
Woods under Threat Oaken Wood exclusive!Quarrying continues to threaten ancient woodland in Kent. Permission was granted by Kent County Council to destroy 33 hectares of valuable wildlife habitat. But after 5,000 of you joined our campaign the case has been called in for a Public Inquiry by Eric Pickles - Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government. This is fantastic news! Exclusive update: the Public Inquiry will start on 7 February 2012. The Woodland Trust will be a key player in the proceedings. We are preparing our case to reverse this damaging planning decision and to save this beautiful woodland in association with Kent Wildlife Trust and local action groups. Watch this space for more information. | |||||||||
100,000th ancient tree discoveredJust five years after the start of the Ancient Tree Hunt when the 200 year old Major Oak in Sherwood Forest become the first ancient tree recorded, we have now reached the 100,000 mark. A majestic beech tree located in the National Trust's Ashridge Forest in the Chilterns has taken the coveted position of 100,000th tree recorded on to the Ancient Tree Hunt website. It measures 5.6 m around the trunk and is estimated to be around 200 years old. Sadly due to proposed changes to the National Planning Policy Framework these breathtaking trees are not fully protected from developers. It is so important that we all take part in the consultation that will decide the future of these magnificent giants of nature. Take part in the official NPPF consultation - your voice makes the difference. | |||||||||
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Links or pictures not working? View this email online This email was sent by the Woodland Trust (a charity registered in England & Wales 294344 and in Scotland SC038885). A non-profit making company limited by guarantee, registered in England (1982873) at its UK office in Kempton Way, Grantham NG31 6LL. Phone 01476 581111 | |||||||||
Biomass Forestry Enews From Confor
Like most parts of government, FC England has been subject to deep cuts to its budget. Following an internal review and staff consultation, a new structure is being developed within the timeframe of the current financial settlement, up to 2014/15. Read more...
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Confor Events
North England regional meeting, to be held jointly with RFS, at Dalton Estate, East Yorkshire, on 28 September 2011. More detailsWales and Marches meeting in conjunction with Woodknowledge Wales and Forest Research: the first seminar in this second series on species choice will be held on 07 October 2011 at Brechfa Forest, Abergorlech, Carmarthenshire. More detailsConfor’s APF2012, is to be held at Ragley Estate, Warwickshire, 13-15 September 2012
Sunday 7 August 2011
Forestry News Update
Surveys have shown local spread of P ramorum in those areas already infected, but of a relatively minor scale. The hard winter may have helped to reduce spread. New outbreak sites have been identified in Derbyshire, Lancashire and Isle of Mull. If you see suspicious symptoms refer to: www.forestry.gov.uk/pramorum Tel: 0117 372 1070 or Email: plant_health_england@forestry.gsi.gov.uk
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