Woodland Strategy 11.34 Mb - the Dorset AONB

Executive Summary
Section 1
5
The vital contribution of Dorset’s trees, woods and forests for landscape, biodiversity,
recreation, culture and heritage will only be sustained and improved through an integrated
strategic approach. Their environmental, social and economic outputs will be maximised
through planned and coordinated management providing opportunities to meet the needs
of the future.
Honeysuckle berries © Forestry Commission
Key issues for consideration are:
• The right tree in the right place – highlight the necessity for targeting specific locations
where there’s an identified need, and choosing the right sites, management and species to
deliver a range of social, economic and environmental benefits
• To provide a focus for the future of “Dorset’s Trees, Woods and Forests”
• To protect existing trees, woods and forests whilst at the same time identifying the need
for appropriate open space management through tree removal
• To encourage access, recreation and education opportunities
• To raise awareness of the need to manage invasive species (such as deer and
rhododendron) in an appropriate manner
• To reduce isolation and fragmentation of wooded habitats
• To improve opportunities for climate change mitigation and adaptation
• Promote the place of timber and wood products in the present and future economy
• Ensure trees and woods are fully considered in future developments by promoting new
planting where it fulfils environmental, social and economic gains
• Utilise the woodland resource to provide a sustainable, renewable energy resource
• Promote the multi-benefit role played by ancient and veteran trees, hedgerow trees and orchards
• Promote benefits of trees, woods and forests and their role in rural and urban environments
Dorset’s trees make up part of the landscape’s fabric; are important habitats for wildlife; are
intrinsically part of the historic environment as well as revealing past human activity; provide
us with a sustainable source of building materials and fuel; and are sites of sporting and
recreational interest. They can also be a cause of negative effects when poorly sited or
poorly managed .
The trees, woods and forests of Dorset are very much a product of human activity and as
such provide an insight into the historic landscape of Dorset. They have a long tradition of
wide rangingl benefits. In this document we look to the future to identify how they can
contribute to challenges that lie ahead. Climate change is now a major concern, rural
industries are in economic decline, many woodland species are showing population decline
and demands on land for housing and recreation is increasing. In Dorset, trees, woods and
forests have an important role to play in mitigating these effects. They can aid rural
economic recovery through the provision of timber for construction and fuel to heat homes.
They can act as carbon sinks and provide opportunities for leisure and recreation thus
improving mental and physical health. They also have an important role to play in urban
landscapes, reducing pollution and noise levels, providing shade to properties and increasing
people’s sense of wellbeing.
This County strategy has been developed with reference to relevant regional, national
and international strategies and policies. It is intended to inform and influence local
decision-makers: local authority planning departments, woodland owners and managers,
community/parish planning and developers.
Mountain biking © Forestry Commission
The strategy has been compiled by the Dorset Woodlink Project, the first county-wide
tree, woodland and forest initiative in Dorset. Since its inception in 2006 the project has
successfully brought together a wide range of organisations, groups and individuals involved
or interested in safeguarding and promoting the many opportunities trees, woods and
forests provide. The production of the Trees, Woods and Forests strategy sets out the
actions for the Woodlink Partnership over the next 10 years.