Forest habitat networks
Woodlands only occupy 17% of the land in Scotland. Many woods are very small in scale and highly fragmented, especially those ancient native woods that have the highest biodiversity value.
What is the purpose of Forest Habitat Networks?
The concept of Forest Habitat Networks is to link woodlands old and new to form a more continuous woodland cover than at present. This will benefit wildlife by providing wider and more sustainable habitats, and it will enhance opportunities for people who live near, work in, or simply enjoy our woodlands.
It is important to view woodlands as an integral part of the wider landscape rather than as individual stands of trees. Woods and forests must be placed within the context of the many other forms of land use. Forestry Commission and Scottish Natural Heritage recently produced a joint publication on this topic, Habitat Networks for Wildlife and People.
This booklet proposes ways in which our woods and forests can be linked more intimately within the landscape. It offers a new approach to appreciating the value of all our woodlands and is available for purchase from Forestry Commission publications.
