District Strategic Plan West Argyll Forest District 2014-2017 · West Argyll Forest District 2014-2017 . DRAFT 2. DRAFT 3 ... of ecosystem services, we are growing the supporting,

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District Strategic Plan

West Argyll Forest District

2014-2017

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1. Foreword ............................................................................................................................................................ 4

2. About this plan .................................................................................................................................................. 5

3. Connecting with Scottish Government national priorities .............................................................. 5

4. Connecting our plans with what we do on the ground ..................................................................... 5

5. Values and Principles ..................................................................................................................................... 6

6. Introducing West Argyll Forest District ................................................................................................. 8

7. District Vision ................................................................................................................................................. 10

8. District Priorities and Actions ................................................................................................................. 10

9. Consultation (or Engagement) with Stakeholders .......................................................................... 35

10. Delivery and Monitoring Section ....................................................................................................... 38

Appendix 1 ................................................................................................................................................................ 39

Glossary...................................................................................................................................................................... 55

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1. Foreword

The main role of Forest Enterprise Scotland is to manage Scotland’s National Forest Estate. It is a privilege. We are excited about the potential to make more of this asset that occupies 9% of Scotland’s land area. We remain committed to our forest management and timber production roots. But we are also showing that with clear strategic thinking, good spatial planning and a 5 broadening range of skills and expertise, the Estate can offer much more besides. In the parlance of ecosystem services, we are growing the supporting, provisioning, regulating and cultural services provided both from the Estate’s woodlands and its diverse open land area.

We are conscious that the Estate is a public asset. Ours is a stewardship role. We continue to explore how best to discharge this responsibility in 21st century Scotland, working with 10 communities and partners to develop the Estate to deliver against current local and national priorities, whilst also ensuring that we manage the Estate sustainably and improve it for the next generation. This document lays out the next chapter of the Estate’s story, that now spans nearly 100 years.

Simon Hodge 15

Chief Executive of Forest Enterprise Scotland

Ro-ràdh

Is e prìomh dhleastanas Iomairt Choilltean na h-Alba a bhith an urra ri Oighreachd Coille Nàiseanta na h-Alba, agus tha seo na urram dhuinn. Tha sinn a’ faighinn brosnachadh mòr às 20 na cothroman an lùib seo; stòras mòr chraobhan a tha a’ còmhdachadh còrr is 9% de dh’Alba. Tha sinn gu mòr airson is gum bi sinn dìleas, dìcheallach a thaobh ar n-obrach a’ manaidseadh nan coilltean agus a’ pròiseasadh an fhiodha. Tha sinn a’ sealltainn, ge-tà, gun gabh mòran a dhèanamh a bharrachd air seo – tro shiostam-planaidh soilleir, ro-innleachdail - le leudachadh ga dhèanamh air sgilean is teòmachd na buidhne. Ann am briathran nan seirbheisean eag-25 shiostaim, tha sinn a’ toirt leasachadh air ar taic, goireasachadh, riaghladh agus ar seirbheisean cultarail; seirbheisean air an toirt seachad bhon dà chuid fearann coillteach na h-Oighreachd agus tron fharsaingeachd sgìrean de dh’fhearann fosgailte.

Tha sinn mothachail gu bheil an Oighreachd na so-mhaoin phoblach agus tha sinn gu mòr an sàs ann an obair ghlèidhidh. Nì sinn tuilleadh obrach a chum nan dòighean as èifeachdaiche air 30 an dleastanas seo a choileanadh san 21mh linn; ag obair le coimhearsnachdan agus le compàirtean gus an Oighreachd a leasachadh a chum na prìomhachasan ionadail agus nàiseanta a thoirt gu buil. Nì sinn cinnteach, aig an aon àm, gum bi an Oighreachd air a ruith ann an dòigh sheasmhach agus gun tèid a leasachadh airson an ath-ghinealaich. Tha am foillseachadh seo a’ toirt cunntas air an ath-chaibideil ann am beatha na h-Oighreachd, beatha 35 a tha a’ dol air ais an ìre mhath 100 bliadhna.

Sìm Hodge

Ceannard Iomairt Choilltean na h-Alba

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2. About this plan 40

This document describes the role and strategic directions for West Argyll Forest District managing approximately a tenth of Scotland’s National Forest Estate (NFE). It replaces the Forest District Strategic Plan 2009-2013.

Forest Enterprise Scotland (FES), which is an agency of Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS), manages the Estate on behalf of Scottish Ministers. Information on FES, its governance, 45 corporate goals, targets and performance measures can be found at www.forestry.gov.uk, in the FES National Strategic Directions, the FCS Corporate Plan and Annual Reports.

3. Connecting with Scottish Government national priorities

Covering 9% of Scotland the NFE provides a real opportunity to deliver across a number of 50 Scottish Government priorities. We align management of the Estate to the Scottish Government’s Scotland Performs framework. The NFE presents the biggest opportunity for Scottish Government to implement the principles of the Land Use Strategy through working in partnership with nature and linking people with the land. The Estate can help meet Climate Change commitments through the use of trees to sequester carbon, managing the 55 Estate to help contribute to flood mitigation and ensuring that the biodiversity of the Estate is secure and able to adapt to climate change. This will also ensure a continued contribution to the Scottish Biodiversity Strategy. The NFE contains approximately one third of Scotland’s woodland resource and is instrumental in delivering the Scottish Forestry Strategy and FCS’s targets. 60

For more information on delivery of Scottish Government priorities and linking our priorities to the ‘Scotland Performs’ framework please see our National Strategic Directions document; “The role of Scotland’s National Forest Estate and strategic directions 2013-16”.

4. Connecting our plans with what we do on the ground 65

We are currently reviewing our land management planning system – how we link national commitments and decision making to local action. We have a new National Strategic Directions document which states our clear strategic direction for the next three years laid out in a number of National Key Commitments.

The document you are now reading is part of the next level in this planning hierarchy and is 70 one of 10 District Plans that translate the National Key Commitments into regional delivery.

These District Plans will drive our Land Management Plans, which will build on the success of Forest Design Plans and further integrate varied land management priorities to maximise public benefit, and optimise ecosystem service provision. Ecosystem services include such varied objectives as conserving vulnerable species, to maintaining a supply of timber and 75 biomass, and providing the largest area for recreational provision in Scotland. Land Management Plans will also drive the move to a ‘landscape scale’ Estate management regime.

http://www.forestry.gov.uk/

http://www.forestry.gov.uk/fesplans



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5. Values and Principles

We list below the values and principles that we will apply when delivering our actions on the 80 NFE.We aim to be exemplars of multi-purpose and multi-benefit sustainable land use.

Value Examples of how this is demonstrated

We think long term. We are a world leader in sustainable land management with our land management plans having a 50 to 100 year time horizon.

We deliver and demonstrate best practice.

We work to the UK Forestry Standard and Guidelines.

We are independently audited against the UK Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS) and are committed to maintaining our certification under the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) and the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC).

We will maintain our ISO14001 accreditation and continue to improve our business sustainability.

We will actively contribute towards the Forestry Safety Accord.

We embrace both a public service and a business ethos.

Most of what we do is funded through commercial revenue.

We are exemplars of multi-purpose and sustainable land use.

Each District delivers a range of benefits such as recreation opportunities, biomass production, energy generation, carbon sequestration, habitat management, health, education and skills development.

We work in partnership, both locally and nationally.

We work closely with other statutory and non statutory bodies such as Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) and the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA).

We work closely with industry bodies such as the Confederation of Forest Industries (ConFor) and other land managers such as utility companies, farmers and highways agencies.

We work closely with communities and neighbours over operations.

We work closely with the public to ensure the enjoyment of this national resource.

We actively demonstrate our values of teamwork, professionalism, respect, communication, learning and

We are working to improve the diversity of our workforce to reflect the population of Scotland.

We will develop and support our people to fully

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creativity in everything we do. employ their skills, experience, creativity and talent.

We are passionate about connecting people with nature, wild places and cultural heritage.

Open access on all our land – where safety allows – is the norm.

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6. Introducing West Argyll Forest District

The NFE Locally 85

Total

area of

land

managed

in West

Argyll

91,800

ha

Made

up

of….

Woodland 62,800 ha

(68%)

Made up of Coniferous

forest

56,800 ha

Broadleaved

forest

6,000 ha

(of which

1,700 ha

is ancient

and semi-

natural

woodland)

Farm land 1,900 ha

Open space, watercourse,

lochs

27,100 ha

(30%)

Plantations on ancient woodland sites cover 5,600 ha, sites of special scientific interest run to 2,125 ha and we manage 51 scheduled ancient monuments.

Of the 56,800 ha productive conifer area, 34% was planted in the 1970s and a further 30% in the 1980s and 1990s. These are mainly young first rotation forests, with trees planted on former open hills. Older conifer stands pre-1960 account for 2,900 ha and do contain some veteran trees and are now mostly second rotation. Average conifer productivity is Yield Class 90 12.4, with 30,500 ha YC 16 and over (mostly Sitka spruce) counter balanced by 11,500 ha of poor productivity YC 6 and below. We aim to thin around 9,000 ha, have 6,300 ha of natural reserve and minimum intervention area, and around 5,000 ha managed under alternative to clearfell systems (ATC).

Environment 95

West Argyll Forest District lies in one of the most wooded areas of Scotland. The landscape is characterised by coastal features, sea and inland lochs and extensive moderate hills. The NFE forests grow between sea-level and 550m in altitude. Climatic variation is wetter and colder in the north to dryer and warmer in the south. 100 The solid geology is usually overlain by glacial deposits, mostly as fine materials resulting in poorly drained soils and significant accumulations of peat which strongly influence soil

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fertility. Climate and soil conditions restrict tree species selection, but have led to productive Sitka spruce plantations, with more diverse woodlands at lower elevations.

We have woods in numerous river catchments although many are typically short ‘west coast’ 105 catchments feeding directly into the sea. However, a number of our larger forests drain into Loch Awe, where we work with the Loch Awe Improvement Association.

The District’s key habitats are Atlantic oakwoods and hazelwoods, native Caledonian pinewoods, and blanket bogs; the key species are black grouse, red squirrel, juniper, chequered skipper and pearl-bordered fritillary along with nationally scarce lichens and 110 bryophytes. The District is host to the Scottish Beaver Trial and this, together with strong populations of iconic species, e.g. osprey, pine marten, white-tailed and golden eagle, means that West Argyll FD has an important role to play in the delivery of wildlife tourism.

Mid-Argyll is noted as one of the premier archaeological locations in mainland Scotland with a range of sites from Neolithic right through to the industrial revolution. The Forest District, 115 with over 2000 heritage features, is steward of a number of key prehistoric rock art sites, has many important Bronze Age sites and Iron Age Duns along with a series of woodland sites associated with the iron smelting industry of the 18th century

Cultural

The population of the District, about 50,000, is low and is mainly centred in the region’s 120 towns and villages; Tobermory, Oban, Inveraray, Lochgilphead, Tarbert and Campbeltown. These placenames, and those of many of the forests, point to the Gaelic (and to a lesser extent Norse) cultural roots found in the District which is centred in the ancient kingdom of Dalriada.

The area contains a high proportion of second homes with many people travelling on a 125 regular basis from the central belt of Scotland for relaxation and quiet enjoyment. The north of the District – and Mull also – has significant tourist accommodation providing for both long- and short-stay visitors. Unemployment and social deprivation are below national averages, but small pockets do exist which the District may be able to provide some opportunities to relieve. 130

The District has a history of working with community groups, including releasing land under the National Forest Land Scheme (NFLS); this is expected to continue and hopefully diversify into renewable energy, providing useful income to remote communities.

Economy

A very high proportion of the contractors we employ live and work locally and it is thought 135 that the value of work paid out by the District is largely recycled in the economy of Argyll. We support 95 full-time equivalent posts directly, and estimate there are just over 100 contractors involved in delivery of our work programmes.

We played an important role in the development of the Forestry Apprentice Scheme and currently have three apprentices. While unemployment is relatively low within Argyll, the 140 local importance of forest operations in an area of low population means that its contribution to regional employment figures is high.

Development of windfarms and small scale hydro projects, along with the substantial construction programme of forest roads provide significant employment. Forest Recreation

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and Wildlife Tourism visits generate expenditure and help sustain local employment, directly 145 or indirectly, through accommodation, shops and service providers.

Farming is an important land-use within the Forest District as we have 1,900 ha of agricultural land, mainly in the form of grazing licences, but there is also one tenant farm and other farmland under tenancy agreements.

7. District Vision 150

West Argyll Forest District will be a key land manager in Argyll producing quality timber for the market, providing sustainable employment in both the public and private rural sectors, and opportunities for renewable energy projects. We will also provide, well-managed native woodlands for wildlife and places for enjoyment for visitors and local communities

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8. District Priorities and Actions

The following sections follow the themes introduced in the National strategic directions document to ensure clear linkages through the planning framework. All Districts will apply an approach based on a strategic assessment of national and regional priorities with the overall aspiration of the Estate being: 160

Healthy – achieving good environmental and silvicultural condition in a changing climate

Productive – providing sustainable economic benefits from the land

Treasured – as a multi-purpose resource that sustains livelihoods, improves quality of life, and offers involvement and enjoyment 165

Accessible – local woodlands and national treasures that are well promoted, welcoming and open for all

Cared for – working with nature and respecting landscapes, natural and cultural heritage

Good value – exemplary, effective and efficient delivery of public benefits 170

The text for each theme in the following section is accompanied by a table, showing District actions in this plan period, and a set of theme-based maps.

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Healthy

Achieving good environmental and silvicultural condition in a changing climate

The moist oceanic climate of Argyll has led to the development and maintenance of organic 175 peat soils which are now seen as important ‘carbon-banks’. These soils and the ‘Atlantic’ climate, whilst limiting the choice of tree species which will grow here successfully, are well suited to growing Sitka spruce, our main productive species that climate predictions indicate will remain a well-adapted mainstay of our forests in this part of Scotland.

The moist and organic soils, along with the windy climate of Scotland’s west coast provide 180 challenging conditions for growing trees and recent powerful gales have been damaging to our forests (and also the general local infrastructure with blocked roads and power outages). The prediction of a wetter, more changeable future climate, with increased extreme events is forcing a re-think on the delivery of thinning and the use of alternative silvicultural systems within our woodlands in this part of the country. 185

Recent years have seen the emergence of three damaging forest diseases which all threaten Argyll’s woodlands. Chalara Ash dieback, while not yet established in Argyll, is a significant threat to our native woodlands, of which Ash can be a very important component. Already established and damaging, Phytophthora ramorum, is starting to kill areas of larch and leading to unplanned sanitation felling to help limit its further spread. Pine is only a major 190 component of our forests in some parts of Argyll, so the risks from Dothistroma Needle Blight (DNB) are localised, but will require careful attention in lodgepole pine adjacent to our important native pinewood remnants.

The integrity of the native flora and fauna of our woodlands is threatened by invasive non-native species. Rhododendron ponticum has by far the widest distribution and a national 195 programme to ensure its removal from Scotland’s NFE is locally well underway. There are other more localised threats to the native flora and fauna from other garden escapes well suited to the Argyll climate such as Gunnera, Japanese knotweed, Himalayan balsam and giant hogweed.

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X X We are committed to high quality silviculture and increasingly using alternatives to clearfelling

The opportunities for lower impact silvicultural systems (LISS) will increase in the next rotation as more of the forest becomes roaded. We will review where ATC can be practised (taking into account climate change predictions of increased rainfall and more storm events) and include this in our Land Management Plans as they are developed.

The LISS will be concentrated in native woodland areas.

X We are exploring how to best steward the carbon resources locked up in the Estate’s trees and soils

Compared with other Districts, West Argyll has a large area of deep peat, so this is an important area of work. We will seek to conserve carbon in soils in the large areas of deep peat through restoration projects in Kintyre, Mull and Eredine/Brenchoille. (N)

X

We will help the Estate to adapt to climate change and become more resilient to pressure

Along with all other Districts we must continue to consider the effects of climate change when fitting the right species to the right site. We will seek the latest evidence to underpin our management choices in a time of uncertainty. Current evidence suggests West Argyll will remain a core Spruce-growing region, which we will balance with our moves to increase locally-suitable native species

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and other suitable conifers to increase forest diversity.

We will implement mitigation strategies for current tree disease threats such as Phytophthora disease of larch (tackling existing and new outbreaks), DNB of pine, (reducing the area of lodgepole pine around the Glen Orchy native pinewood remnants), and Chalara disease of ash (if it becomes established in Argyll). (N)

We will deliver our Deer Management Plans for each of the Deer Management Units in West Argyll FD. (N)

X

X

We are committed to dealing with invasive plants and animals that threaten habitats and biodiversity

We will have treated 25% of the rhododendron in West Argyll and have moved 2250 ha into the follow-up phase, tackling particular concentrations in Appin, Carradale, Lochgilphead and on Mull. (N)

We shall start to map the distribution of Japanese knotweed and Gunnera in West Argyll Forest District and tackle their removal in key locations.

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Productive

Providing sustainable economic benefits from the land

As the large forest areas established in the late 20th century throughout Argyll by Forestry Commission Scotland are now approaching maturity they are entering sustainable 205 production. This stage brings opportunities, employment and several challenges; many of the forests have few roads or access, which allow the timber to be brought to established markets largely situated outside the Forest District. Equally the public road network is limited and in places unsuitable for large volumes of timber traffic. These challenges are being addressed through the construction of new forest roads, and through working in 210 partnership with the Argyll & Bute Council, neighbouring forest owners and the Argyll Timber Transport Group to provide practical solutions.

With its many sea-lochs and islands it is not surprising that marine timber transport options have been developed in Argyll to reduce timber traffic on public roads: around 40% of all timber despatches in the Forest District are now moved by boat. 215

The Argyll climate is well suited to renewable energy production; seven mini hydro schemes and three windfarms have been built on Scotland’s NFE. Two other windfarms are being constructed and seven more hydro projects are seeking planning approval; further projects are being explored which will be subject to full consultation and consideration through the planning process. 220

Oban and Mull are important regional tourism destinations, with many visitors coming to enjoy the spectacular coastal and hill landscapes. These areas are ‘big’ in wildlife tourism, and our forests are home to some of the most iconic species to be found in the area. In partnership, we have been closely involved in the development and growth of ‘Mull Eagle Watch’ and in mid-Argyll the Scottish Beaver Trial, which is hosted in Knapdale Forest, has 225 provided impetus to the ‘Heart of Argyll’ Tourism Alliance which builds on the important cultural heritage also found in the District.

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X We aim to increase the contribution of the NFE to the economy of Scotland and its regions and recognise the potential of the Estate to assist transition to a low carbon economy

With partners, we will seek timber transport solutions to bring inaccessible timber in Glen Lochy, Glen Orchy, Kintyre and Mull to the market, including the completion of the timber transport pier on Mull. (N)

X We aim to provide at least three million cubic metres of softwood timber every year on a sustainable basis

West Argyll Forest District shall bring 500,000m3 of timber to the market each financial year, adjusting this as necessary in line with the development of Plant Health issues and windblow events. (N)

We intend to manage at least a quarter of our expanding broadleaved woodlands to produce quality hardwoods and woodfuel

We shall increase the area of broadleaves for the production of quality hardwoods (70 ha) and woodfuel (70 ha) during 2014-17.

X We will market timber in ways that encourage value adding and additional jobs in manufacturing and processing, recognising the benefits of contributing to local economic activity, especially in the more fragile rural areas

West Argyll Forest District will hold a ‘log-shop’ event annually for local sale of specialist timbers to support small-scale wood processing. (N)

We will endeavour to assist small-scale timber business start-ups with short-term wood supplies.

X

We will use our work programmes to promote the development of the forestry and land management sectors

We will support a national monitoring programme on the contribution of the Estate to jobs and the economy of Scotland and its regions.

We shall construct 75km of new forest roads to improve access to manage Scotland’s NFE in West

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Argyll FD.

We shall operate and manage the Fishnish Timber Pier to ensure it provides benefit to all woodland owners in north and east Mull.

X We plan to increase agricultural use of the Estate where this is consistent with environmental objectives

We shall review our agricultural holding, creating new SLDTs, LDTs and a starter farm as opportunities arise.

X We aim to realise the Estate’s renewable energy potential whilst achieving a reasonable balance with other objectives

We will work with energy businesses to increase renewable energy generation in West Argyll Forest District in line with the Scottish Government 2GW 2020 target. (N)

West Argyll Forest District will bring timber to the competitive market which is suitable for biofuel projects.

X

X

X

X

We will work with partners to find new ways to harness our natural and cultural heritage and develop the Estate’s potential for tourism

We will continue to facilitate the high quality wildlife viewing facilities of Mull Eagle Watch, and the Scottish Beaver Trial (while pending a decision on the future of Beavers in Scotland).

We will work in partnership with Kilmartin House Museum to promote the tourism potential of the Estate in Mid-Argyll.

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We will undertake a feasibility study for the Aros Park recreation hub on Mull to identify commercial development opportunities which may increase the site’s contribution to the local visitor economy.

We will work with our local partners in the Argyll Forest Tourism Initiative and VisitScotland and local destination organisations to develop the forest tourism potential of Argyll.

X We will support the Scottish Government's woodland expansion policy

We shall establish at least 80 ha of new woodland in West Argyll FD. (N)

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Treasured

As a multi-purpose resource that sustains livelihoods, improves quality of life, 230

and offers involvement and enjoyment

Some of Argyll’s forests have been managed for multi-purpose benefits for decades, providing employment, natural resources, recreation and tourism opportunities, while remaining important places for natural and cultural heritage. Barcaldine, Fearnoch and Knapdale are excellent examples of forests which deliver a wide range of public benefits. 235

West Argyll Forest District was the first in Scotland to introduce modern apprentices, having now trained over 20 individuals, almost all of whom are making valuable contributions to the forest industry, many of them locally in Argyll. The range of experience and expertise to be found in Argyll means that it will remain an excellent training location for new recruits to forestry. 240

There is a range of Community based forestry projects in Argyll where the forest district has worked with communities to help deliver their aspirations. In some occasions this has been through the NFLS, e.g. the community purchase of woodland by the North West Mull Community Woodland Company, and the development of the community hydro project at Garmony by the Mull and Iona Community Trust. On other occasions it has been through 245 partnership working such as our work with Kilmartin House Museum, the Dalriada project in Mid-Argyll, Mull Eagle Watch and the Scottish Beaver Trial.

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X We want to encourage local people to get involved with using and managing local Estate woodlands so we will actively engage with local communities and be open to work in partnership

As part of the NFLS we will promote the opportunity for communities to acquire a stake in renewable energy developments on the land we manage. (N)

We will continue to work in partnership with the Mull and Iona Community Trust to support the Community Ranger on Mull to ensure a range of community benefits are delivered and channels of communication are in place and are kept open.

We will implement our good practice guidance on consultation to ensure that we effectively engage and maintain two way communication with our stakeholders.

We will continue to use the Estate as a place for volunteering and gaining employment skills

We will provide opportunities for at least 6 apprenticeships and 2 internships during 2014-2017.

X

X

X

We are committed to creating more uniquely special places across the Estate and to delivering benefits to an increasingly diverse range of Scotland’s people

We will define and invest in management of visitor zones, initially in our most visited forests (Knapdale and Achnabreac, Fearnoch, Barcaldine and Aros Park), to make them more attractive and welcoming. (N)

Through our land management plans and designated site plans we will seek to maintain or

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improve the cultural values, biodiversity and scenic qualities of our special places including, Knapdale, Barcaldine and Fearnoch.

Visitor experience plans explore how we may best interpret special places and add value to visitors appreciation and understanding of these locations and their management. We shall prepare and implement plans at Knapdale, Barcaldine and Fearnoch.

X We recognise the value of the Estate as a place for research and development of best practice

We will work with Forest Research and other specialists to demonstrate best practice and provide long-term monitoring sites, for example, in relation to ecosystem management, climate change adaptation and energy forestry.

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Accessible

Local woodlands and national treasures that are well promoted, welcoming and 250

open for all

While West Argyll is remote from the main urban centres of Scotland it remains a popular holiday location, particularly to the north of the District around Oban and on Mull where there is a wide range of holiday accommodation from caravans, through holiday homes to superior hotels. Many visitors come to enjoy the scenery and therefore a range of short 255 walks, with spectacular views such as those found at Beinn Lora, have proved most popular.

While several longer-distance routes exist, their use is limited, with most use being made of popular routes and those areas closer to wild land, e.g. the West Highland Way and Glen Etive. Much of the active sport in Argyll is based on the coast, but some provision has been made in the forests, with mountain-bike routes near Lochgilphead and Campbeltown. The 260 ever increasing popularity of water-sports is reflected in the number of visitors to Glen Orchy, where parking problems are now beginning to develop.

Regular television coverage of the special wildlife, much of which is found in the forests in West Argyll, has meant that the area is now an important focus for wildlife viewing in Scotland. The Mull Eagle Watch partnership has reached VisitScotland five star rating, 265 providing excellent viewing of nesting white-tailed eagles, and in recent years the Scottish Beaver Trial has provided a focus for visitors in Mid-Argyll.

As there are relatively few large urban centres in Argyll, involvement in the ‘Woods In and Around Towns’ (WIAT) initiative is limited to sites where there are forests close to Campbeltown and Lochgilphead. However, Aros Park at Tobermory also provides a welcome 270 recreational opportunity for those living on, or visiting, Mull.

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We will continue to invest available resources into high quality facilities that encourage and help visitors experience and enjoy the outdoor environment

We will work with bodies like the Fieldfare Trust and invest in increasing the accessibility of key locations to a wider cross-section of society through thoughtful design, appropriate on-site provision such as toilets and high-quality interpretation.

Making use of our visitor survey data we will refocus our investment in recreation facilities in improving the quality of sites in Argyll with higher footfall.

Our staff will continue to be responsive to visitor needs, to learn and develop their customer focus and facility management skills and continue to improve our marketing including our on-line and promotional work. This will include working closely with VisitScotland and other local partners.

We will renew our visitor-facing website to improve the quality and relevance of the information we provide to help visitors find the best locations for them.

We will continue to encourage use of the Estate for health benefits and outdoor learning

We will continue to provide opportunities for others involved in education and health initiatives like Forest School and Rural Skills, including through agreements

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with partner bodies.

We will continue to make the Estate available for a wide range of activities, events and sports that we currently host and, by making improvements to our permission system, improve our service and reduce the risk of potential conflicts between different users.

X Through our WIAT programme we aim to provide more opportunities for more of Scotland’s people to enjoy high-quality countryside and find health, education, skills and community involvement benefits

We will improve forest road access at Beinn Ghuilean (Campbeltown) to allow improved management of this WIAT woodland.

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Cared for

Working with nature and respecting landscapes, natural and cultural heritage

The forests of Argyll are special places for wildlife; they contain some of the largest 275 remnants of Atlantic oakwoods found in the country, as well as three small but important native pinewoods. The oakwoods, which have been described as ‘temperate rain-forests’, are famed for their specialist moisture loving range of mosses, liverworts and lichens. Intermixed with the oakwood areas are other native woodland types and Argyll is now being justly recognised for its important areas of hazel woodland. 280

During the last two decades the significance of these native woodlands has been more fully recognised and a restoration programme is well underway. Linkages between existing remnants are starting to be established and the previous conifer plantings are progressively being removed from ancient woodland sites. Where there are suitable site conditions there is an opportunity to expand the area of broadleaves and to increase the scope of their value 285 by managing some of these areas for future timber production.

Five of the six FCS Biodiversity Action Plan species are found here and West Argyll is one of only two Forest Districts which are the home of the rare chequered skipper (a woodland butterfly). There are established populations of red squirrels and six forests have been selected as stronghold areas designed to strengthen, through careful management, the long-290 term survival of this charming species.

The ongoing Dalriada partnership project in Mid-Argyll, as well as highlighting the natural environment of the area, gave an opportunity to showcase the internationally and nationally important cultural heritage of this region. As a follow on, further work to improve access to some of the more important sites (such as at the impressive Iron Age dun of Castle Dounie), 295 has been combined with improved maintenance regimes; together these have resulted in a wider enjoyment of these cultural treasures.

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We are restoring around 85% of areas on ancient woodland sites to largely native species. The remaining areas will be enhanced through our management

We will continue the enhancement of ancient woodland remnants and restoration of plantations on ancient woodland sites (PAWS) to native woodlands, removing mature conifers from 100 ha during 2014-17. (N)

We aim to increase in broadleaved tree cover from the current 8% of woodland cover to around 20%

We will use data from the Native Woodland Survey of Scotland to identify where expansion of broadleaved woodland will improve the habitat network and buffer ancient woodland fragments as we develop our new Land Management Plans. (N)

We will establish 140 ha of broadleaves, within the core Atlantic oakwood areas of the Forest District. (N)

We will identify important hazelwoods in the Forest District and initiate a programme of work to support them.

X

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We are committed to maintaining the best open and native woodland habitats in good ecological condition

We will continue open habitat surveys in West Argyll Forest District to ensure completion by 2019.

We will implement the ‘Strategic Guide for Conservation Management of Open Priority Habitats on the National Forest Estate’ in line with national timetables.

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We will identify particularly vulnerable species for which the NFE is important and take specific conservation action

We shall contribute to national monitoring programmes of chequered skipper, pearl-bordered fritillary and red squirrel and key habitats. (N)

We will continue to support lek counts of black grouse in Argyll, incorporating their needs into key Forest Plans for this species.

We shall incorporate the recommendations of the Red Squirrel Stronghold Management Plans into the Forest Plans for Kilmichael, Eredine, Brenchoille, Inverliever, Inverinan and Loch Avich Forests (N).

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We safeguard archaeological sites through our planning and management and recognise special places and features with local cultural meaning

We will continue to undertake conservation management, condition monitoring and archaeological recording at significant historical assets in West Argyll. (N)

We will promote and encourage intellectual and physical access to townships such as Kilmory Oib and Arichonan; to Iron Age duns such as Castle Dounie and Druim an Dhuin, and at the early Christian site of Rubha na Fidhle Chapel of Loch Awe.

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X We will continue to work with stakeholders to develop, share and promote best-practice historic environment conservation management. (N)

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Good Value

Exemplary, effective and efficient delivery of public benefits 300

We will continue to look for ways for delivering our outcomes in a cost-effective and efficient manner, and working collaboratively with neighbouring forest managers, e.g. through the development of timber haul routes to protect the fragile public road network. We will also reduce our waste, improve our energy efficiency and reduce our carbon footprint on travel.

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X We will seek a diverse range of income sources to underpin the cost of managing the Estate, and we will continually look for ways to achieve best value in delivery of public benefits

We will increase the amount of income from sources other than timber, including renewables, minerals and other land-management activities.

We will make progressive reductions in the emissions from our Estate management activities

We will contribute to a national reduction in our carbon emission in administrative travel by 5% over this plan period.

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9. Consultation (or Engagement) with Stakeholders 310

FES attaches great importance to engaging customers and stakeholders in developing new plans, strategies or policies and their implementation. We aim to involve as wide a range of people at as early a stage as possible and making the engagement as thorough, effective, transparent and appropriate to the target audience.

Key Commitments 315

A clear and agreed purpose shared with all parties Fairness, equality and inclusion Provide accurate and timely information Exercise skill in order to build relationships, to ensure practise of equalities principles,

to share ownership of the agenda, and to enable all viewpoints to be reflected 320 Improve the quality of engagement by learning from experience Participants are given the opportunity to build on their knowledge and skills Conform to statutory legislation

In summary, these principles aim to build on the skills and knowledge of all those involved 325 and outline our commitment to continuously improve and to foster a clear sense of purpose for achieving change.

Engagement by the District on plans and programmes conforms to the FES Engagement Strategy that, in turn, follows the Scottish Government Consultation Good Practice Guidance.

District Engagement and Stakeholders 330

West Argyll Forest District has a dispersed rural population that, typically of rural Scotland, has a very low proportion of ethnic communities. The majority of non-British residents in West Argyll are from eastern Europe who have arrived in the area recently. Demographically the area has a relatively high proportion of elderly people and a smaller proportion of the population is of school age. The small pockets of socially deprived populations are in the 335 Dunbeg and Campbeltown areas. Most of the Forest District is at least two hours from the main urban centres of Scotland (remote rural), but the area is popular for second homes. Consequently, our engagement will concentrate on the population resident in Argyll, and those who have holiday homes in the area.

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Who we engage with

Types of activity

National Regional Local

Forest District Strategic Plans

FCS, Statutory and Non Statutory Consultees, e.g. Timber Trade, SNH, SEPA, RSPB, HS

FCS Conservancy, Timber Trade, Perth & Argyll Regional Forestry Forum, Argyll & Bute Council, Statutory and Non Statutory Consultees

Neighbours, Businesses, Residents, Council Members, Community Councils

Land Management Plans

FCS Conservancy, Timber Trade, Argyll & Bute Council, Statutory and Non Statutory Consultees


Renewable Energy Projects – Wind and Hydro (through Developers)

FCS Conservancy Office, Argyll & Bute Council, Statutory and Non Statutory Consultees

Neighbours, Community Councils and community groups

Development Plans

Ministers, Statutory and Non Statutory Consultees, e.g. Timber Trade, SNH, SEPA, RSPB

FCS Conservancy Office, Local Authorities, Statutory and Non Statutory Consultees


Work Plans Utility Companies, Argyll & Bute Council Access Officer, Argyll & Bute Council, Highways Agencies, Statutory Consultees (for designated sites)

Neighbours, Businesses, Utility Companies, Partners (for Partnership project sites)

Repositioning programmes

Ministers, FCS, SGRPID

FCS, SGRPID, Argyll & Bute Council

Neighbours, Community Councils

Recreation Events

Argyll & Bute Council Access Officer, Highways Agencies, Neighbours

Argyll & Bute Council Access Officer, Highways Agencies, Neighbours, Specialist Interest bodies/groups

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Protected Site Management Plans

FES National Advisers

Statutory and Non-Statutory Consultees (e.g. SNH, HS)

Specialist Interest bodies/groups

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10. Delivery and Monitoring Section

Context

Delivery is based on the creation of a rolling annual business plan. This identifies and measures the physical and financial resources required to deliver the West Argyll Forest 345 District component of the National Strategic Directions.

The Business Plan is developed using data from detailed Work Plans prepared for all significant programmes approximately two years before work commences. These plans are driven by the Land Management Plans, and above those, the District Strategic Plan

Following approval of the Business Plan the local managers organise the agreed programmes 350 and report each quarter relative to timescales, resources and quality standards. This wide ranging monitoring is integral to sustainable forest management and reflects formal performance monitoring such as the UK Forest Standard and informal monitoring of day-to-day detailed management activity.

Before looking to establish the way forward, a key component of the process of strategic 355 planning is to firstly establish where we are now. This can be achieved by review of the performance against the indicators outlined in the previous West Argyll Forest District Strategic Plan 2009 – 2013.

Monitoring for the 2009-2013 District Strategic Plan

The plan covering the period 2009-2013 reflected aspirational delivery grouped into the 360 seven themes from the Scottish Forestry Strategy – Climate Change, Timber, Business Development, Community Development, Access & Health, Environmental Quality and Biodiversity. In each section of this plan each Forest District outlined what it would contribute to delivery of the seven themes against the relevant target. The progress relative to these targets is contained in Appendix 1. The appendix reports completion of the targets 365 (new, yes, no or partial) and includes explanatory comment.

Monitoring for the 2014-2017 District Strategic Plan

Each of the 10 Forest Districts in Scotland has identified how best to contribute to the delivery of the aspirations outlined in ‘The role of Scotland’s National Forest Estate and strategic directions 2013-2016’. These aspirations are brigaded under the headings Healthy, 370 Productive, Treasured, Accessible, Cared for and Good value.

The 2014-2017 District Strategic Plan for West Argyll will be routinely monitored to ensure that progress can be tracked against both national and local aspirations and will focus on those specific District Priority Commitments outlined in the thematic tables containing the ‘District Actions’. 375

Strategic Environmental Assessment Monitoring

The 10 Forest District Strategic Plans will be subject to assessment and consultation through the established Strategic Environmental Assessment procedures. The outcomes will be used to create a suite of indicators under each of the six national priorities. The reporting strategy will be owned at national level but will reflect local trends and District issues derived from 380 the relevant FD priority commitments. The relevant indicators will be reviewed concurrently with the cycle of national and Forest District Strategic Plans reviews.

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Appendix 1

Delivery of 2009-2013 West Argyll Forest District Strategic Plan 385

Target from previous District Strategic Plan

Target achieved

Comments on progress and future work required

CLIMATE CHANGE

Maximise the potential for windfarms on or adjacent to the NFE with due regard to community, planning and environmental concerns in order to help deliver government targets for renewable energy.

Yes Progress has been slower than expected. Beinn an Tuirc II under construction and A’Chruach about to enter construction phase. Several legacy schemes and Wind Opportunity developers proposals now well established in the pre-planning stage and moving into the consultation stage.

Help facilitate woodfuel/biomass market growth and emerging woodfuel enterprises. Continue to grow our local firewood sales, both direct to customers and through local businesses.

Yes A systematic arrangement for provision of small or large quantities of firewood has been set up that builds on the existing scavenging permit scheme. Progress on Mull has been slow and is now moving to marketing of bespoke firewood coupe areas. The consented biomass plant at Achnabreac will significantly increase the amount of WAFD timber being used as biomass once construction is complete.

Proactively seek opportunity to develop at least five small-scale hydro electricity developments on the NFE, as identified from the 2007 potential location identification exercise, with due regard to community, planning and environmental concerns.

Yes 7 micro hydro schemes now in operation and another with planning consent, awaiting construction. A further 7 proposals have been submitted for planning approval and another 10 potential schemes are being investigated by partners,

Work with neighbours, water body management groups and other agencies to implement appropriate catchment management plans. Extra sensitive silvicultural techniques and additional site check procedures will be implemented during operations in erosion sensitive areas e.g. Glen Shira and Glen Lochy. We will produce a series of specific guidelines for Glen Shira and implement these during forest

Yes Glen Shira woodland sold before specific guidelines produced. Erosion sensitive areas are now dealt with through new steep ground and slope stability procedures and are identified via specific GIS layers.

Progress with catchment management plans has been slow and the development of larger scale new land management plans should

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Target achieved


operations from 2010. address this.

Comply with the latest Forestry Commission Scotland forests and water guidelines in a competent and effective manner. We will audit our operations on production of the 5th edition and modify local practices within six months to make sure that we conform with the update.

Yes All work complies with latest Guidelines and is audited via internal procedures and UKWAS audit to ensure consistent application of this in the forest.

Utilise the ecological site classification system combined with site survey and climate change species trend predictions to make sure that we plant resilient species on suitable sites to provide adaptability for the future. This will be reflected in forest plans and detailed site/work plans, supported by local guidance on species selection and native trees and shrubs.

Yes Forest Design Plan (FDP) species choice is based on a mixture of these principles to ensure that species are fitted to soil type, exposure and tree health concern considerations. In the west, climate change prediction favours the continued use of Sitka Spruce and the main challenge is to achieve wider species diversity with other species that are silvicultural sound and will thrive in a wetter and more perturbation prone climate.

Foresters are encouraged to challenge FDP species choice via the Work Plan process and post felling site survey.

FR species trial plot established on Mull to test alternative species.

Adopt and incorporate the practices identified in the evolving FCS business sustainability programme in all our buildings, operations and travel patterns, e.g. more telephone and video conferencing, grater use of biofuels, shared transport, lower CO2 vehicles, etc. Our vehicle emissions will drop 5% year on year.

Partial Fleet continues to be upgraded with cleaner vehicles. Vehicle CO2 emissions reduced, but target not achieved – increased programmes of work leading to increased travel.

Continue to identify opportunities in existing forests and potential acquisitions for improving habitat networks. Widen this to take a wider scale approach working with SNH and adjacent landowners and include as a key component of the Forest Design Plan process. Complexes of forest

Yes Incorporated into the FDP process via external consultation with bodies such as SNH and advice from the FC environment team at the draft FDP internal consultation process. As FDPs are amalgamated to cover larger areas a more strategic approach to Forest Habitat Networks

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blocks, e.g. Loch Etive side, west loch Awe side and Knapdale will be targeted for this work as design plans are updated.

can be adopted.

Special consideration is given to red squirrel stronghold areas.

Any proposals from Scottish Environmental and Rural services for upgrade, rationalisation or development of office facilities should be based on the Building Research Establishment environmental assessment method and FCS business sustainability programme principles. Improve insulation and energy use at the Barcaldine Depot by revamping the accommodation module.

Partial Lochgilphead office recently upgraded to modern insulation standards and woodfuel heating programmed for installation. Outstationed offices still need some further improvement work as does the Barcaldine Depot.

Seek opportunity to create new woodland where land acquisition opportunity allows, Encourage natural regeneration in areas identified through the forest design plan process and manage these under a continuous cover forestry-type regime. We will introduce a more robust monitoring regime by 2011 and will tabulate areas of successful regeneration on an annual basis – on average we aim to achieve successful natural regeneration on at least 5% of the total area felled within 10 years of felling.

Yes Natural regeneration of native broadleaves is developing well, but monitoring is poor. A contract to further inform monitoring is now in place for survey of PAWS sites that are 5 years on from felling to assess their level of regeneration.

TIMBER

Improve thinning forecast, continuous cover plans and planning processes. We will revise our thinning plans in 2009 and 2011 with a view to expanding programmed thinnable area.

Partial Thinning plan still needs more work on it and continuous cover areas to be reassessed following concerns about ground damage and the detrimental effect of the 2012 windblow on ATC sites and thinned areas.

Produce a sustainable forecast of timber production and smooth our production to match those predictions (currently at ~500,000 cubic metres/yr) in subsequent marketing plans. We will maintain our compliance with the UK Woodland Assurance Standard, which will allow our customers to gain certification for their products for that scheme and other associated

Yes Production Forecast increased following 2011 and 2012 Production Forecast (PF) exercise, though volume entered in business plan held at just over 500km3 mark to keep achievable based on road construction and resource availability implications.

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certification schemes, e.g. Forest Stewardship Council.

Maintain the thinning programme at least at current levels, review it annually and seek opportunities to expand it, while observing sensible constraints to make sure that all suitable areas are thinned.

No Thinning programme has declined following concerns about ongoing ground damage and high levels of windblow in thinned areas. If anything the thin area is likely to be significantly reduced based on assessment of damage to thinned areas over the last 3 or 4 years.

Site selection for species and origins (including improved stock) will follow sound silvicultural practice to create a quality growing stock at the appropriate density to take advantage of our favourable site/climatic conditions. We will implement and monitor the stocking density assessment process to make sure that we continue to reach these standards.

Yes Consistently good Stocking Density Assessment (SDA) results, especially for Sitka spruce. Species choice at FDP based on available soils data, Ecological Site Classification (ESC), growth of adjacent crops and local knowledge input.

Continue partnership working with Argyll Timber Transport Group with particular emphasis on appropriate community consultation.

Yes Key partner in several schemes, e.g. West Loch Awe Timber Haul Route (WLATHR), Kinachreachan also working with neighbours and private forestry companies on several other ongoing proposals.

Commit to long-term contracts with customers and contractors with a view to reducing costs and timber road miles, while encouraging sea transport and other more sustainable timber transport options, e.g. rail.

Yes Commitment to long -term contract customers ongoing. Unfortunately no timber has gone out by rail, though use of sea transport is running at about 40% of total cut. Mull Pier project could have a significant positive impact.

Improve and market information on hardwood timber production (quantity, type and expected year) to make sure that a wide range of customers are able to bid. We will maximise our use of this timber in our own construction and recreational work and monitor usage on an annual basis.

Partial Only limited amounts of hardwood timber marketed via the niche marketing initiative, previously through the Barcaldine Depot site.

Continue to seek opportunities to demonstrate the use of Scottish timber in construction and repair work,

Partial Limited use of timber produced via the Barcaldine Mill. Aros Park Tower showcasing using of Scottish timber

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maximising the use of local timber, e.g. Aros Park re-cladding work, recreation bridges, etc.

in an innovative engineering structure.

Specify sustainability measures and energy reduction targets in all buildings tenders. Aim to reduce building energy consumption 5% year on year.

Partial Monitoring mechanisms now in place for more accurate recording.

Pruning, singling and cleaning will be used appropriately to improve quality in natural regeneration and productive hardwood establishment areas. In 2010 we will produce a plan detailing areas for pruning and update it annually.

Partial More systematic approach needed to identify where this work is needed and to draw up ongoing schedule of work for this. Partial resource and prioritisation issue.

Increase the future broadleaf resource by identifying opportunities at time of Work Plan preparation, re-stocking, regeneration opportunity or in acquisitions for growing quality broadleaves.

Yes Area of broadleaves being significantly increased via PAWS restoration, high level targets for broadleaf cover and reflection of this in the FDP process. Recording mechanisms for success of broadleaf regeneration need to be more robust.

Adhere to route maps agreed with Argyll and Bute council for timber transport. We will complete the timber haul/windfarm route on Loch Awe-side by 2011.

Yes WLATHR completed in 2012, though further work needed to bring up to hand over timber haulage spec. Timber follows agreed routes or uses restricted routes via Traffic Management Plans agreed with Local Authority.

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Continue to build on and geographically widen the success of the Modern Apprentice Scheme and secure funding to sustain the programme. We will maintain the number of apprentices at at least five over the next five years.

Partial Apprentice scheme still proving very successful, though numbers have varied based on number of entrants each year and completion rate.

Prepare a District workforce development plan to identify current and future skills shortages and training needs so that staff skills can match and be attuned to developing priorities and demands. Review and update this annually.

Partial No District-wide plan produced, though has been addressed to an extent in some teams through recruitment exercises, TNA and rationalisation of team composition following retirements / departures and through limited use of TRA.

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Work in partnership with other tourism providers and VisitScotland to more strongly integrate the role of FCS forests and their facilities in boosting tourism locally by encouraging longer stays.

Yes

West Argyll Forest District is a member of the Heart of Argyll Tourism Alliance. Working with them and other partnerships (Scottish Beaver Trial, Kilmartin Museum, Mull and Iona Community Trust) to increase awareness of our facilities and boost tourism locally.

The new co-operative has become a significant success, with membership extending across Argyll’s local tourism organisations and actively influencing strategic decisions affecting the wider area.

We will undertake a comprehensive feedback survey among key tourism providers in the area by 2011 to see how we can improve our integration with this sector.

No We have not undertaken a survey locally but have worked with all key tourism providers over the past 18 months. Argyll & the Isles Tourism Co-operative is a link between the tourism industry associations and ‘Argyll and the Isles Strategic Tourism Partnership’ on which national bodies (including FCS) work together on Argyll’s tourism agenda.

Make special effort to build on our contribution to the wildlife viewing facilities to improve current service, e.g. sea eagles and beavers, and to work closely with partners who offer this service.

Yes Mull Eagle Watch achieved 5 star status in 2012.

Visitor viewing increased at Scottish Beaver Trial.

High degree of media attention and coverage. Local businesses have successfully built on this.

Continue to consider the landscape value of woodlands to tourism during the Forest Design Plan process with particular regard to views to and from the forest.

Yes Work on visitor zone management has resulted in a wider spread of involvement across planning, ops and CRT. New views maintained at request of community in Minard.

Identify and test opportunities for diversification of income that is vital to protect programme development in other areas. We will also engage with stakeholders to make sure that proposals are well thought through and that long-term relationships are not

Yes The major source of income diversification is through renewables developments on or through FCS land. Other, as yet undeveloped, mineral opportunities are being explored.

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damaged. We will review the percentage of our non-timber income at each business plan and seek to grow this percentage year on year.

Forest road access for interconnectors, general access to developments, private forest access outside the NFE and private forest access provide smaller incomes.

Assess forests with low scores from portfolio analysis for opportunity to improve their non-market and/or economic performance. If this is not possible they may be considered for sale to release money for recycling to other key work areas , including new acquisitions. We will produce a report by 2012 that outlines scope for portfolio analysis score improvement in forest blocks with current low score and identified opportunity for improvement.

Partial A second tranche portfolio analysis exercise using a differing set of criteria was launched before work could be carried out to improve on previous exercise score.

Be open to new business ideas that match our wider social and environmental standard and consider positively proposals that will assist growth or development of local businesses.

Yes Working with local businesses e.g. Mull Pier development, Achnabreac biomass plant, renewables development approaches, etc.

Promote continuous improvements to safety culture in the forestry sector by exhibiting and practising best practice on the NFE. We will discuss safety information updates and relevant incidents at an annual all staff safety meeting and with our contractors as part of pre-commencement meetings.

Yes Consistent proactive approach to safety throughout District.

Assist FCS in providing opportunities for school children between 14-16 years to learn more about forestry and gain a greater understanding of potential employment opportunities.

Yes Although much of our education involvement has been reduced due to resource issues, the District has continued to run rural skills courses in the Lochgilphead area. We run an Environmental Education service through our partnership with Kilmartin House Museum and over the last two years we have taken pupils from Lochgilphead and Tobermory secondary schools on work experience placements.

Contribute to the work of Forest Education Initiative in supporting

Yes We have made a financial contribution to the work of the Forest

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forestry skills development and careers guidance in schools. We will aim to undertake at least six school visits per year.

Education Initiative over the last three years. Limited resources have meant we have been unable to represent the District at these meetings. We have undertaken at least six school visits a year over the past few years, however, in 2012-2013 we had to reduce this, again due to staff resource issues.

Encourage local business developments that match our wider social and environmental standards to derive benefits from tourism, particularly where they further promote forest use.

Yes Through our permissions system, we have enabled access for wildlife photography businesses to our forests on Mull and in Knapdale.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

Encourage communities that wish to become more involved in the management of, or outputs from their local forest.

Yes Benderloch community were fully involved in harvesting operation at Beinn Lora.

Mull and Iona Community Trust has successfully developed NFLS proposal for hydro project at Garmony.

Other projects at Minard and Barcaldine.

We will continue to contribute to a range of current partnerships, and will actively consider new proposals where appropriate.

Yes Working with three main partners (Mull and Iona Community Trust, Kilmartin House Museum and Scottish Beaver Trial) but currently looking at starting a new partnership in the north of the District. Also working with local groups who wish to become more involved in specialised activities such as mountain biking.

Continue to support, consult with and encourage communities that are currently involved in their local forest.

Yes Working with Barcaldine community to deliver events. Working with mountain bikers in the Lorne area to facilitate delivery of trails (by them) on Scotland’s NFE.

Receive community approaches on purchase positively and process applications that fit the NFLS criteria as

Yes Several NFLS approaches, e.g. Tiroran purchase, Garmony hydro scheme. District staff actively work with and

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quickly as possible. Continue to work constructively with the group bidding to purchase part of Salachry Forest for woodland croft development.

support communities in these applications. Community withdrew its interest in the Salachry woodland crofts.

Worked closely with North West Mull Community Woodland Company Limited to help with Strategic Timber Transport Fund haul route across FCS land.

Inform community councils of forests for sale in their areas as far in advance as possible to give them adequate time to consider their position.

Yes Statutory notice periods adhered to.

Target our limited resources at engaging with local primary schools, The Rural Skills programme in secondary school s and supporting Forest School. We will deliver this by complimenting Forest Education initiative groups for North and West Argyll.

Yes We are working with the local FEI group and individual schools, providing them with suitable areas on Scotland’s NFE to enable them to deliver Forest School in the District. We’re also using our partnership services to deliver forest education throughout the wider District area.

Identify opportunity for acquisition of land/woodlands in close proximity to towns. Continue to build on the success and potential for development of the community woodlands at Kilmory and Beinn Ghuilean.

Yes Opportunities have been identified for Kilmory but the acquisition process is not yet complete. We have been working with local cyclists at Beinn Ghuilean on trail maintenance.

Worked with a neighbouring new planting scheme at Craig Farm to expand this on to adjacent FCS land. Glen Orchy NP scheme now complete and several other areas either purchased or obtained through excambion, e.g. Glenmore Farm, Carsaig, etc in early stages of planting approval.

Continue to seek opportunity to make suitable areas available to housing associations for affordable housing.

Yes Since initial tranche of sites notified to local housing associations there has been no further requests to find further potential sites.

Take an active role in and support the recommendations arising from the FCS

Yes Plan is being adopted through use of Gaelic in our interpretation (panels

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Gaelic Language Plan due to finalised in early 2010. We will incorporate the recommendations of this plan into District policy within three months of the plan being approved.

and leaflets) and site signage where appropriate. This is being done on a rolling programme when signs are due to be replaced.

Actively consider partnership approaches by stakeholders or businesses to develop local capacity or grow the local economy.

Yes Working with Kilmartin Museum, Scottish Beaver Trial, Mull and Iona Community Trust, Stramash, North Argyll mountain bikers.

ACCESS & HEALTH

Promote and facilitate greater use of the NFE for physical activity through our own events, working with health professionals and FCS health co-ordinators to undertake measures such as referrals, support and training for walk leaders. By 2010, produce a local strategy and timetable of events that includes a list of stakeholding health professionals who are willing to co-operate with the strategy.

Partial We have run or facilitated an events programme including guided walks, health walks and seasonal events. We also have events run by partners on Scotland’s NFE. We have put 4 members of staff through health walk leadership training over the last 5 years but now facilitate, rather than lead, health walks in conjunction with the NHS in Oban and Blarbuie in Lochgilphead.

Seek further investment to maintain and enhance current facilities and to increase their usage by local people consistent with prioritisation arising form revision of the District recreation plan. We will co-ordinate a programme of visitor number monitoring covering key sites to allow better prioritisation of future resources.

Yes Achieved and ongoing. District recreation plan has been revised and visitor monitoring is carried out through the use of 12 pedestrian and 13 car counters. We are also in the process of doing an extensive all District visitor numbers survey with a contractor.

Work with local access officers to help them maintain and manage those routes on the NFE that form part of the core path network.

Yes Fully engaged with the access authority and local managers. Active participant in the Sustrans Oban to Fort William route.

Protect public rights of way through woodlands and take them into account in forest design and management. We will make sure that all rights of way and core paths are included in our geographic information system (GIS) layer by end 2009.

Partial The Argyll and Bute core path plan has not yet been adopted and we are awaiting a copy of the shapefile from the Council.

Continue to find ways to resolve any actual or perceived user group conflict

Yes Working with mountain bike groups to identify areas suitable for

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by working with communities and user groups to seek workable solutions.

mountain biking without conflicting on existing users of trails and facilities. Also working with Field Archers to develop and maintain systems for reducing conflict.

Continue to address the Disability Discrimination act in a prioritised and proactive way using the Countryside for all Good Practice Guide. All entry points to the forest to be surveyed for impediments to access and a five-year rolling programme of improvements to be produced in 2010.

Yes Entry point survey carried out. Working with the Fieldfare Trust to identify facilities where improvements can be made. We have already begun to implement these changes at many facilities in line with the Equality Act.

Improve communication of healthy activities through improved and targeted communication, marketing and interpretation – with a special emphasis on people who currently do not make use of the forests. Carry out at least three talks a year to groups that include potential forest users.

Yes Talks and presentations carried out to different groups including special interest, community groups, schools, etc., by a number of teams within the District. Events targeted through location and proximity to towns within the District to encourage increased forest visits.

Continue to update key interpretation facilities and work with other partners to provide coherent, flexible and stimulating interpretative opportunities. We will overhaul and update our recreation plan in 2010 to allow a more co-ordinated and balanced approach, including consultation with key stakeholders.

Yes We have a rolling programme of updates and improvements for our interpretation throughout the District, including information panels, interpretation panels, leaflets and our website. This is done both through our own design and interpretive services and in partnership with others such as Sustrans, Mull Eagle Watch and the Dalriada project. Our recreation plan has been updated.

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

Work with SEPA and SNH on the delivery of EU water framework directive and the protection of special areas for conservation on rivers and their tributaries.

Yes

Harvesting and FM teams continue to work within the terms of the Forests and Water Guidelines.

We have an ongoing LIFE funded project on the Mingary Burn SAC on Mull to improve the riparian corridor habitat. Close liaison with SNH on freshwater pearl mussel sites.

We will draw up a programme of prioritised improvements to

Partial Some problem bridges have been replaced, but an ongoing programme

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engineering structures in relation to the water framework directive by 2011.

of replacement remains.

Continue to include landscape as a major consideration in long-term forest planning and gradually work at resolving issues such as hard edges and masked views, and make balanced decisions on the way forward taking into account other issues; such as economics and biodiversity value.

Yes Landscape still a major consideration in forest plans but now more balanced with other forest plan requirements such as FHN’s, need to maintain productive area, forest expansion opportunity, etc. 2012 windblow re-sculptured a number of forests.

Continue to increase the area managed under low impact silviculture systems – currently just over 9% of the forest area (approx 8998 ha). We will build on the silvicultural skills of our staff through training and participation in groups that promote the advancement of alternative silviculture systems.

No Area under LISS likely to decline in reaction to concerns about ground damage, windblow and practicality of previously identified LISS locations.

More detailed assessment of way forward needed.

Improving access to and expanding the interpretation in association with the important cultural heritage in the District area is seen as a priority and will be addressed through design plans, the recreational plan and Work Plans as appropriate. By 2011 we will produce a plan listing improved access opportunity in relation to archaeology feature access.

Yes Some significant progress made on improving public access to key archaeology sites (our work at Castle Dounie was recently published as a case study in the FCS guidance note ‘Historic Environment Conservation Management’). In other areas finding resource to keep access to a high standard has proven challenging (such as at Aintuim) and the 2011 plan exercise needs to be revisited.

Continue to work with local archaeologists and Historic Scotland to protect the ancient monuments in our care and to make sure that cultural heritage issues are adequately addressed in any proposed developments (including acquisitions of bare land).

Yes All relevant designated historic assets have a Monument Management Plan in place and we have undertaken archaeological investigation and conservation management at a number of sites throughout the District.

A number of archaeological measured surveys have also been commissioned, including laser scans of several Iron Age duns (which feature in the FCS booklet ‘Archaeological Measured Survey on Scotland’s national forest estate’).

The Forester GIS Heritage Module

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now defines known site extents – an essential part of the constraints layer within any plan or map.

Ongoing consultation with Historic Scotland on matters from harvesting near sensitive sites to introducing grazing regimes.

The Environment Team regularly liaises with the FCS Archaeologist; and we encourage the use of the FCS Practice Guide ‘Identifying the Historic Environment’ amongst our survey staff.

Archaeological surveys carried out on the Military Road network and Glenmore Farm acquisition.

Condition monitoring carried out on selected Scheduled Ancient Monuments in 2012/3.

Unscheduled Ancient Monuments protected through Work Plan process

Use detailed site planning and consultation with key stakeholders, particularly SEPA and fisheries groups, to identify site and downstream issues for inclusion in subsequent operations. A summary of consultation will be filed in association with each design plan.

Yes Use of zonation and a traffic light system when working sites adjacent to vulnerable water courses, along with close liaison with SNH and the FCS Species Ecologist.

Extensive inter-agency consultation associated with the Scottish Beaver Trial at Knapdale.

Areas of unstable ground or with slope stability issues will be treated especially sensitively and will receive additional monitoring to make sure that all guidelines are adhered to or exceeded. A specific suite of additional guidelines will be formulated for sites in Glen Shira by 2010.

Yes Glen Shira sold before specific guidelines produced. New standard procedure for managing operations on slope stability concern areas and formal risk-assessing and control process being followed for these sites.

BIODIVERSITY

Produce a plan for prioritised control of invasive exotic species by 2011 and implement as resources permit in

Yes Priority areas are recorded on Tactical Planner to guide clearance work and follow-up spraying and to

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Target achieved


association with our partners.

allocate resources and to enable budgeting.

Rhododendron framework contract in process of completion.

Designated sites and rhododendron under larch have been especially targeted.

Continue to monitor deer numbers damage levels on an annual basis to make sure that our deer management keeps deer populations and damage in balance with sensitive habitat requirements.

Yes Deer damage systematically monitored through the SDA process and nearest neighbour assessments in year 1 restock. Additional special assessments are carried out in areas of concern and independent monitoring is carried out at designated sites.

Make sure that 95% of features will be in ‘favourable’ or ‘unfavourable recovering’ condition classes by 2010, using management plans agreed with SNH.

Yes Over 95% of sites are in ‘favourable’ or ‘unfavourable recovering’ condition. Only 2 remain ‘unfavourable no change’ and there is no recognised management remedy for the unfavourable issue

Restore all plantations on ancient woodland sites, wherever this is a practicable proposition. The current level of restoration is 55%, but in the longer-term we expect this to reach over 90% restoration (5,988 ha).

Yes Critical and high ecological potential sites have been prioritised.

Seek opportunities to develop wildlife watching on the NFE in association with other providers and partners. Incorporate any recommendations in the 2010 revision of the recreation plan.

Yes Mull Eagle Watch awarded 5-star rating by VisitScotland in 2012.

New beaver viewing platform installed in Knapdale

Continue to expand the area of native woodland from the current level of 5,086 ha (8% of woodland area) to significantly over 9,000 ha.

Partial After first five years area of native woodland close to 6,000 ha. The 9,000 ha figure remains a long-term target.

Future forest structure and management practices will continue to be strongly influenced by the need to enhance the prospects for our species action plans and other important species. These can also be used as

Yes Ongoing.

Red squirrel stronghold management being developed. Continued grazing for black grouse habitat. Habitat work for chequered skipper and pearl-

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barometers for a whole host of other species.

bordered fritillary in place.

Assess the potential impact of management proposals on Natura sites – either on, or adjacent to, the NFE – using the appropriate assessment process to avoid impacting on these sites.

Yes Carried out through the Forest Plan and Work Plan processes and in conjunction with SNH where required, e.g. Mingary Burn SAC felling, Faery Isles SAC felling, and Renewables proposals.

Collaborate on at least a five yearly basis with neighbouring landowners, colleagues in Perth and Argyll Conservancy and SNH, and in association with design plan revision, to create functioning landscape-scale habitat networks.

Partial Been carried out on a less systematic basis through ongoing discussion and the Conservancy FDP/amendment approval process. Liaison with neighbours mostly on a case by case basis.

Seek acquisitions where these provide vital links for improving this network and for creating new opportunities, e.g. tree-line forest development or forest network habitats.

Partial The acquisition market has proven challenging and there have been few opportunities to purchase land to achieve objectives based on boundary consolidation, e.g. Carsaig etc.

Manage open space in a more pro-active and targeted way in some areas and produce a plan outlining these areas and our plan of action by 2011.

Partial Cattle grazing sites at Minard and several in Knapdale managed for Biodiversity.

Review of Agricultural land undertaken, but yet to be implemented.

Work with local deer management groups to foster a responsible attitude towards fencing issues and co-operative management of population levels in association with Deer Commission Scotland [SNH]. Maintain ring fences in Open deer range where necessary, seeking an appropriate contribution will be sought from neighbours.

Yes An active member of all deer management groups in the District where such groups exist. Allocation of additional resource has allowed the general condition of ring fences to be improved.

Promote the profile and awareness of biodiversity requirements during stakeholder engagements, school visits and forest plan consultations, where appropriate working with SNH, and proactively encourage involvement in biodiversity projects by communities

Partial Tending to react to approaches from schools and other groups rather than proactively seeking a higher level of engagement. This approach is dictated by District resources available for such work.

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and volunteers.

Identify important geodiversity sites on the NFE and maintain and enhance through the forest plan process.

Yes Geological SSSI’s are all under management to maintain their integrity with enhancement through conifer removal where appropriate

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Glossary

ASNW Ancient Semi-Natural Woodlands

ATC Alternatives to Clearfell

CCF Continuous Cover Forestry 390

ConFor Confederation of Forest Industries

DSP District Strategic Plans

EQIA Equality Impact Assessment

FCS Forestry Commission Scotland

FES Forest Enterprise Scotland 395

FSC Forest Stewardship Council

GIS Geographic Information Systems

KPI Key Performance Indicator

LISS Low Impact Silvicultural Systems

NSA National Scenic Areas 400

NSD National Strategic Directions

NFE National Forest Estate

OCUK Outdoor Capital of the United Kingdom

PAWS Planted Ancient Woodland Sites

PEFC Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification 405

RSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds

SAC Special Areas of Conservation

SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment

SEPA Scottish Environmental Protection Agency

SGRPID Scottish Government Rural Payments and Inspections Directorate 410

SNH Scottish National Heritage

SOI Sunart Oakwoods Initiative

SSSI Special Sites of Scientific Interest

STTF Strategic Timber Transport Fund

UKFPA United Kingdom Forest products Association 415

WIAT Woods in and Around Towns

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Forestry Commission Scotland serves as part of the Scottish Government's Environment and Forestry Directorate and is responsible to Scottish Ministers.

Forest Enterprise Scotland is an agency of Forestry Commission Scotland charged with managing the National Forest Estate. 420

Contact

Forest Enterprise Scotland Head Office

1 Highlander Way

Inverness

IV2 7GB 425

Tel: 01463 232 811

Fax: 01463 243 846

E-mail: [email protected]

Web: www.forestry.gov.uk/scotland

430

If you need this publication in an alternative format, for example, in large print or in another language, please contact:

The Diversity Team

Forestry Commission Scotland 435

Silvan House

231 Corstorphine Road

Edinburgh EH12 7AT

Tel: 0131 314 6575

E-mail: [email protected] 440

District Strategic Plan West Argyll Forest District 2014-2017 · West Argyll Forest District 2014-2017 . DRAFT 2. DRAFT 3 ... of ecosystem services, we are growing the supporting,

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