Woodland creation, management & conservation support
22 May 2020Up to £1000 in woodland creation, management & conservation support available, without a prior ILMP
The Scottish Government has lifted requirements to complete an Integrated Land Management Plan (ILMP) prior to accessing funding support for woodland creation. Since 1st May, Scottish farmers and crofters, can now apply for up to £1,000 funding through the Farm Advisory Service (FAS), to enlist the help of a specialist adviser to help with woodland creation.
Prospective applicants can apply for support here: https://www.fas.scot/application-forms/specialist-advice-form/
The adviser will work with the land manager to add value to underproductive land by reviewing farm-specific opportunities and financial incentives available to create or manage woodland. This includes identifying the most suitable grants and assistance packages that farmers and crofters can use to optimise the use and value of their land.
‘This is great news and a fantastic opportunity for land mangers across Scotland who are interested in woodland creation,’ said Lyn White, Forestry and Farming Development Officer at Scottish Forestry. ‘To receive professional advice and discuss their farm’s objectives around creating new woodlands, whether it be for shelter for livestock, habitat for wildlife, helping to reduce their carbon footprint or future income from timber sales. There are a wide range of forestry grant scheme options to choose from so practical informative advice is key to getting the right tree in the right place.’
The Scottish Government has an ambitious target to increase woodland cover in Scotland from around 19% to 21% of the land area by 2032. These new woodlands will absorb and store carbon and will provide a wide range of environmental, economic and social benefits.
To apply or for more information, call 0300 323 0161 or email advice@fas.scot.
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