A fresh approach to supporting England’s woodlands has been unveiled at the National Forestry Conference.

The Sustaining England’s Woodlands report and the Forestry Commission‘s (FC) response to it, both released at the Cirencester conference, were welcomed by forestry minister Elliot Morley.

He said: “I agree that the time is right for a new relationship with woodland owners and managers in England based on partnership and empowerment. We need to work together to help woodland owners and managers implement sustainable forest management and deliver the England Forestry Strategy.”

&#8220The time is right for a new relationship with woodland owners and managers in England based on partnership and empowerment. ”

Forestry minister Elliot Morley.

Key areas for action in the FC’s response include: improving engagement with owners and managers; strengthening advocacy for woodlands and sustainable forest management; developing new and stronger partnerships; increasing income from woodlands; and using FC resources more effectively.

The Sustaining England’s Woodlands report was put together by an independent steering group representing woodland owners and managers, government departments and agencies, and Wildlife and Countryside Link.