The Forestry Commission is encouraging farmers and landowners to apply for funding for woodland creation available through the 2018 Countryside Stewardship Scheme.
Countryside stewardship offers two year capital grants of up to £6,800 per hectare to support ground preparation, fencing, tree protection and initial maintenance.
There is also an option to subsequently apply for a maintenance payment for up to 10 years, covering the initial period while trees become established.
The funding aims to create woodlands for biodiversity, water quality, flood management, and economic opportunities in rural areas.
As woodlands mature they can provide a good source of income, providing the timber and woodfuel industries. Other benefits include carbon storage, shelter for livestock and improved soil.
Richard Greenhous, Director of Forest Services for Forestry Commission England said: “By investing in woodlands now, you will be in the best position to reap the benefits of a sector with a bright future, thanks to rising timber prices and new opportunities in carbon storage. By planting trees now, you are also investing long term in our landscape and environment.
“Our Forestry Commission teams are on hand to advise on applications and help you make the most of funding available to create valuable new woodland. We can help applicants ensure they have all the information they need to plant the right trees in the right places, in order to meet your project’s goals.”
The Woodland Creation Grant is open to all land managers - owner occupiers; tenants, land lords and licensors, as long as they have control of all the land and all the activities needed to meet the obligations of the grant for the full duration of the agreement.
