t he story so far…….
Community Forestry ry in Scotland • Over 200 Community Owned/ Managed Woodlands • 1 st Wooplaw, Scottish Borders, 1987 • Most recent: Tiroran, Mull – May 2016 • Multitude of sizes and purposes BUT all share having communities at the heart of their activities.
The Aigas Story ry Forestry Commission • 760 Acres – productive mixed conifer forest. Planted 1950s. Minimal active management. • Owned 1954-2015 • Repositioning Programme National Forest Land Scheme • Four options (purchase, lease, part purchase/ part lease, purchase) • 6 Years • Challenges: Funding, State Aids, Valuation Aigas Community Forest • Company Limited by Guarantee with Charitable Status • 10 • Directors, 1 Employee • Secured ownership 2015
ACF: Objectives Environment (Natural Assets) • Moorland Edge • Steep Slopes • Improving Biodiversity Enjoyment (Physical Assets) • Increased Public Access • Mountain Biking Education (Human Assets) Local Schools – Outdoor Learning Resource Aigas Field Centre Volunteering Economy (Physical & Financial Assets) Local Businesses Glamping Wood Fuel Timber Production Energy (Physical & Financial Assets) • Wood Fuel • Micro Hydro
Current Activity • Completing Forest Design Plan • Supporting Surveys – bryophytes, archaeology, ancient woodland etc. • Building Links with Aigas Field Centre and Local Schools e.g. open days, forest education resources & native plant nursery. • Volunteering: community and wider • Deer Management Contract • Wood Fuel Business Model
Find out more
Recommend
More recommend
