Trees, Woodland & Forestry Industry
A tradition of sound management and ability to grow quality timber, together with considerable enthusiasm and skill exists throughout the West Midlands' woodland and forestry sector providing the basis for business activity and potential expansion.
In discussions during the scoping and implementation of the Framework it has also become very clear that we cannot deliver the many benefits and services advocated unless the commercial side is viable. The bulk of existing woodland is privately owned; delivery of public benefits requires co-operation and financial support. Some very real and important challenges exist. Amongst others these include:
- The need to develop woodland and forestry markets, products and enterprises
- Raising the level of skills and knowledge
- Attracting sufficient levels of support for the "do-ers" in the industry
- Identifying the role of the Forestry Commission in support for the sector
- Forging partnerships with other regional players who can help and support a viable, dynamic and competitive sector
The proposal to form an expert working group to develop and promote the woodland and forestry industry in the region as part of the Woodland and Forestry Forum programme has gained momentum in recent months and the group met for the first time at the end of April 2006.
Regional Forestry Economic Baseline for the West Midlands
In August 2009 ekosgen, in association with Lockhart Garratt Ltd, was commissioned by Advantage West Midlands to prepare an economic baseline of the timber and non-timber components of the woodland and forestry economy for the West Midlands. The document was designed to update the 2003 baseline and to support the refresh of the Regional Forestry Framework.
The resulting report provides a comprehensive overview of this important sector in the West Midlands and is intended to stand as the key reference document for stakeholders and policy makers alike. There are however gaps in the evidence base that will effectively support sector development, and where there is a clear linkage between these and meaningful productivity gains, these are highlighted as recommended priorities for further work.
Meetings (in Word format unless otherwise specified):
Joint meeting with Wood Energy Task Group – 14th July 2009 (.pdf format)
Minutes of joint meeting with Wood Energy TG to discuss Draft of the Woodfuel Supply Chain Project Application for RDPE Axis 1 Environmental Technologies - March 2008
Note of Meeting 28 September 2007 (.pdf format)
Note of Meeting 10 May 2007
Note of Meeting 24 January 2007
Note of Meeting 27 September 2006
Note of Meeting 07 July 2006
Note of Meeting 25 April 2006
