Achieving National Standards

Forest Stewardship Council certification provides independent verification that woodland is being managed appropriately and effectively to a standard approved nationally and internationally - it gives assurance and guarantees that the social and environmental values of the woodland are safeguarded.

The Trust was first awarded the Forest Stewardship Councils Woodmark certificate in 2002/03, recognising that its management is planned and implemented to the Councils very high standards. To maintain certified status the Trust is annually inspected to ensure that standards continue to be met. This inspection took place August 2004 and certification has been confirmed.

Inspectors look at all the systems and methods used by the Trust, from felling, planting, timber processing and access through to management planning, environmental protection, monitoring and working with local partners and communities. Looking to constantly improve and build upon good practice the inspectors asked us to develop policies on the use of biodegradable oil, develop a deer management strategy and clarify the Trusts policy on the use of synthetic chemicals. The Trust has undertaken this work.