Associated Timber Services Ltd (ATS) has bought what it believes to be the largest parcel of Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified oak in the UK.
The woodlands were planted on the Bertha Park estate in Perth during the mid to late 19th century, since when none of the oaks have been felled.
Acting on the advice of forestry consultants RTS Ltd, the owners have now embarked upon a long term forestry plan to guarantee a successful future for the woodland.
Part of the scheme includes selective and clear felling of the oaks which will be carried out by Colsterworth, Lincolnshire-based ATS. The parcel consists of approximately 5,000m3 of FSC oak which will provide prime quality timber for veneer, joinery, pip, long beams and fencing.
ATS started felling in January this year and the work is expected to continue throughout 2003. Initially it was hoped some of the oak could be used for the Scottish Parliament build, but due to time constraints and drying times this was not possible.
ATS will market the FSC oak throughout Europe and some is expected to come back to its Colsterworth site where it will complement existing stocks of air and kiln dried English and European hardwoods.
