The Scottish Forestry Strategy

 

Forestry Commission Scotland's (FCS) mission is to protect and expand Scotland's forests and woodlands and increase their value to society and the environment. 

• The Scottish Forestry Strategy (2006) (PDF 3.1Mb) was launched on 9th October 2006. 
• It was produced after an extensive review of the previous strategy (2000) during 2005 and 2006.

Scottish Forestry Strategy Implementation Plan 2008 - 2011

The Scottish Forestry Strategy Implementation Plan 2008-2011 (PDF 491k) lays out actions for the coming year, and directions for the following two years by theme.  It also contains a progress report summarising what FCS and partners have delivered against the strategy in the year 07-08.

The Description of Indicators (PDF 327k) provides background details to the indicators contained in the Scottish Forestry Strategy, reported on through the annual implementation/reporting process.

The Scottish Government’s vision for forestry is:

"By the second half of this century, people are benefiting widely from Scotland's trees, woodlands and forests, actively engaging with and looking after them for the use and enjoyment of generations to come. The forestry resource has become a central part of our culture, economy and environment."

The Scottish Forestry Strategy is based on four key principles:

• Sustainable development – underpinned by sustainable forest management;
• Social inclusion - through helping to provide opportunities for all, and helping to build stronger communities;
• Forestry for and with people; and
• Integration with other land uses and businesses.

The Strategy is the Scottish Government’s framework for taking forestry forward through the first half of this century and beyond. It sets out a vision of a forestry sector that is:

• diverse and strong;
• in tune with the environment;
• employing many people in a wide range of enterprises; and
• providing the many other services and benefits that people need, now and for the future.

Three outcomes are sought:

• Improved health and well-being of people and their communities;
• Competitive and innovative businesses contributing to the growth of the Scottish economy; and
• High quality, robust and adaptable environment.

The Strategy is looking ahead to the second half of this century, but it is focussing on the key priorities over the next decade.

The first Scottish Forestry Strategy (2000)

The first Scottish Forestry Strategy (PDF 5.1Mb) was launched in 2000 and guided the development of Scotland's expanding forest and woodland area.