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Written question asked by Ben Lake (Plaid Cymru) on Thursday, 28 June 2018, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 2 July 2018. It was answered by Baroness Coffey (Conservative) on Thursday, 5 July 2018 on behalf of the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

Forestry

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what assessment he has made of the merits of continuous cover forestry for the production of (a) sustainable quality timber production and (b) public goods including improved water quality, water retention and biodiversity.

Answer

Continuous Cover Forestry is not the default approach to forestry management in England. The UK Forestry Standard advises forest managers to consider Continuous Cover Forestry where this is suitable to the site and species combination, and if this is compatible with land management objectives. Broadleaved woodland – which makes up approximately 49% of forest cover in the UK – is generally managed on a continuous cover basis.

Government is currently undertaking research and trials in England, Scotland and Wales investigating how continuous cover forestry (CCF) can provide sustainable quality timber, more resilient forests, and other public benefits. Further details can be found at: https://www.forestresearch.gov.uk/research/managing-resilient-forests/continuous-cover-silviculture/

Forestry is a devolved matter, meaning it is not for the UK Government to answer questions on Welsh forestry policy.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
158802
Session
2017-19
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Environment protection Forestry
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk