Woodland Management
Planning for Healthy, Resilient WoodlandsSupporting Your Woodland, Long Into the Future
Woodlands are living, evolving ecosystems that require thoughtful care to flourish. Whether your goals include biodiversity enhancement, sustainable timber yield, or public enjoyment, a Woodland Management Plan (WMP) lays the foundation for long-term success. At ArbAware, we help landowners and estate managers develop clear, actionable plans that meet ecological, economic, and regulatory goals. Our approach is rooted in sustainability, ensuring each woodland thrives for generations to come.
Comprehensive Plans, Tailored to Your Woodland
A Woodland Management Plan is more than just a document, it’s a working guide for the responsible stewardship of your land. We begin with a detailed site survey and collaborate closely with you to define objectives that align with your woodland’s condition, your priorities, and current best practices.
Each plan is tailored to your site’s characteristics, whether ancient woodland, plantation, or mixed-use estate, which meets the requirements of the UK Forestry Standard (UKFS). Plans can also unlock access to funding opportunities such as Countryside Stewardship and the England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO).
From habitat restoration and invasive species control to infrastructure maintenance and timber strategy, we provide a clear roadmap for managing your woodland well into the future.
A typical woodland management plan includes the following components:
Site description: Overview of location, size, woodland type (e.g., ancient semi-natural woodland, plantation, secondary woodland), soil types, topography, and current condition.
Management objectives: Clear, measurable goals such as biodiversity enhancement, timber production, habitat restoration, carbon sequestration, public amenity, or education.
Woodland compartments and inventory: Detailed mapping and description of sub-units within the woodland, including species composition, age structure, canopy cover, and notable features (e.g., veteran trees, watercourses, archaeological features).
Silvicultural and habitat management: Prescriptions for thinning, coppicing, planting, natural regeneration, invasive species control, deadwood retention, and veteran tree care.
Protected species and habitat considerations: Measures to safeguard wildlife, comply with legal protections, and enhance habitat networks.
Access and infrastructure: Maintenance of paths, rides, gates, and drainage, especially where public access or forestry operations are planned.
Monitoring and review: Regular assessment of woodland health, regeneration, and management outcomes, with plan reviews typically every 5 to 10 years.
Work programme and timeline: A phased schedule of tasks, often over a 10-year period, supported by maps and tables.
Get in Touch
Please get in touch to arrange a site visit and a member of our team will come out to your site to assess the works that you require.
T: 01420 579071
E: [email protected]
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