Scottish Borders woodland strategy

Woodlands and forests make a substantial contribution to the tourist industry, providing opportunities for recreation, healthy exercise and community involvement.

They contribute to Scottish Borders' unique landscape, ecological and cultural heritage and make a significant contribution by supporting the local economy through timber production and processing.

Scottish Borders Woodland Strategy:

• sets out policies and proposals for the future of trees, woodlands and forests in the Scottish Borders
• seeks to draw together all those who have an interest in the Borders tree resources
• is intended to provide an integrated, practical, partnership based approach and be pro-active to act as a positive framework for the future
• provides a regional expression of the Scottish Forestry Strategy.

Implementing the Woodland Strategy

Over the next 20 years, a large amount of woodland will mature and be ready to harvest. We are keen to encourage development in this sector which will increase the number of jobs locally.

The following key actions identify how we will make better use of our woodland resources:

• undertake a study of the wood supply chain and small businesses, including a review of non spruce timber
• promote construction and sustainable development using local timber
• undertake a survey of gardens and designed landscapes
• promote building and designing with durable timber
• promote use of forest products as fuel
• undertake audits of 'under managed' woodland resources in the Scottish Borders 
• promote woodlands around towns
• promote the forest habitat network.