Forestry Commission - News - go online then go outside in south west england!

Residents in the South West of England think providing habitats for wildlife is the most important benefit that forests bring. And now it is even easier for people to get out and see the wildlife that lives in the region’s woodlands thanks to a new regional Forestry Commission website launched today (1 April) packed with visitor ideas, interactive maps and in-depth information about the region’s forests.

The website also contains key information on the English Woodland Grant Scheme, felling licences, the region's forest strategy and educational resources. Launched today (1 April) it is just a mouse click away at www.forestry.gov.uk/southwestengland

Of those surveyed in the South West 83% thought that providing places for wildlife to live was a good reason for supporting forestry with public money compared with 71% who agreed that helping to tackle climate change, and 70% who believed that providing places to walk in, were important. The South West topped the poll of English regions who had seen or read about forests, woods and trees in the last 12 months with 73% of those surveyed reading about the topic compared to only 41% in the North West of England. The results were revealed in the Forestry Commission’s Public Opinion of Forestry survey, part of a series run since 1993.

Matthew Woodcock, Regional Director for South West England said,

“Woodlands are a great place to relax, watch wildife, keep fit or feed your creativity. The region has a wonderful mix of woodlands from the breathtaking beauty of the Forest of Dean to the thrilling mountain bike trails of Haldon Forest Park, the adventurous family play trail at the award winning Moors Valley Country Park and the tranquil charms of the National Arboretum at Westonbirt.

“The new regional website makes it easier for residents of and visitors to the South West to find out about the work we do in the area and how we may be able to help you if you own or manage a woodland.”

Regionally focused information on recreation, education, conservation and grants can now be found online at – www.forestry.gov.uk/southwestengland

Ends

Notes to Editors
1. The Forestry Commission is the government department responsible in England for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woods and forests and increasing their value to society and the environment. Forestry makes a real contribution to sustainable development, providing social and environmental benefits arising from planting and managing attractive, as well as productive, woodlands. Further information can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk/england

2. In 2007, four separate public opinion of forestry surveys were undertaken - across the UK (around 4,000 interviews), Scotland (1,000 interviews), Wales (950 interviews) and Northern Ireland (1,000 interviews). The England report represents the results from over 3,000 residents. It can be found online at http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/ENGLANDOPINION2007final.pdf/$file/ENGLANDOPINION2007final.pdf

The new Forestry Commission England Regional website for the South West can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk/southwestengland