Welsh foresters will need to be “braver” in their tree planting choices, including use of western red cedar and coast redwood sequoia, to help make woodlands more diverse in the face of climate change.
Forestry Commission Wales has launched a guidance to help foresters through a choice of up to 60 species with potential for planting in the country.
It said Sikta spruce had helped restore Wales’ woodland cover but it had become apparent that over the last decade that having all the forestry eggs on one basket was not an option.
“Today’s foresters will need to show the same foresight as their predecessors in planting the right trees for future generations,” it said.
“If existing woodlands are to adapt to the expected future climate and newly-created woodlands are to stand the test of time, it will be necessary to take a combination of ‘no regrets’ diversification measures.
“Doing nothing is not an option, and it will take time.”
Suggested measures include broadening the choice of genetic material, mixing tree species in stands and also varying management systems and the timing of operations.
The new guidance contains a renewed focus on redwoods, while foresters are also encouraged to look at western white pine, European silver fir and red oak.
“The challenge lies in how quickly this tree species diversity strategy is embraced, not least to get the seed supply and nursery stocks up and running to serve the demand.”
To access the guidance click here
