Funding to help support new tree nurseries – (FWN36 Spring 2021)

Could setting up a tree nursery have potential to diversify your business? An additional £1.5 million funding has been pledged through Scottish Forestry’s Harvesting and Processing Grant, which helps with the costs of specialist forestry equipment.

The funding could go towards seed trays, seed storage and sowing equipment, poly tunnels, cold storage facilities and irrigation systems. Adaptations to vehicles, machinery and premises to allow tree nurseries to continue safely under COVID-19 are also supported.

Announcing the financial support, Rural Economy Secretary Fergus Ewing said:

“Scotland has very ambitious tree planting targets which are important to our green recovery and helping us meet our climate change targets.

“To prepare for this increase in planting, we need to increase the capacity of tree nurseries so that they can produce more stock. The funding will not only assist Scottish nurseries to gear up but also others in England.
“I’m very pleased to be working with the UK Government on this funding agreement which will help more woodland to be created in Scotland.”

The funding is made up of nearly £1 million from Defra and £500,000 from the Scottish Government. Tree nurseries are to be the main beneficiaries of this additional funding, however forestry businesses based in Scotland can also apply to get financial support for a range of specialised forestry harvesting and processing equipment.

This article has been published in the Spring 2021 edition of the Farm Woodland News.  Download a copy to access all articles.  Subscribe to receive newly published editions via email by using the form here.