UK forestry research involving ways to protect woodlands, tackle tree pests and cope with climate change and soil erosion is considered to be world-leading.
A specific branch of this research belongs to agroforestry – incorporating forestry with agriculture.
The need to tackle soil erosion and cope with climate change will make trees an important ingredient for productive cropping and livestock farming, an agroforestry conference recently heard .
By mixing farming and forestry, the conference heard that a well-managed agroforestry system can produce 40% more than if they are separate.
Indeed, the role that UK research is playing in the fight against tree and plant pests was demonstrated to Defra Environment Minister Thérèse Coffey recently during a visit to Forest Research in Edinburgh.
Forest Research is the UK’s principal organisation for forestry and tree related research and provides evidence and scientific advice in support of sustainable forestry.
Between 2012 and 2019, the UK will have invested more than £37 million into tree health research.
’Vital contribution’
While at their Scottish base last week, the Minister learnt about the latest efforts to combat tree pests and diseases, forestry’s role in reducing climate change, and the best tree species to increase planting rates.
Speaking after her visit, Thérèse Coffey said: “We can all take pride in the UK’s world-leading forestry science and research which is making a vital contribution towards protecting our native trees and plants from pests and disease.
“That is why we are continuing to invest millions of pounds into tree health research to shape the response that government and the forestry industry needs to take to keep our forests and woodlands healthy for future generations.”
During her visit to Edinburgh, the Minister also held a roundtable with representatives from the forestry industry to discuss steps to increase tree planting.
