Generating income from your woodland
In the UK, around 45% of woodlands are unmanaged and it’s largely believed that many woods are left unmanaged because of concerns over the cost of management. If you would like to understand more about why management is necessary and vital, read our previous article: Why woodland management is important.
Woodland owners in the UK have several opportunities to generate income that can support woodland management activities. Here are a few of the most common ways:
1. Timber Sales
Selling timber is a traditional and significant source of income either for construction, firewood or biomass. Owners don’t just have to rely on selectively harvesting mature trees, thinning trees as part of management can also bring further income as part of sustainable practices to maintain the health of the woodland. If timber is an objective, proper management can enhance timber quality and value.
2. Carbon Credits
With increasing focus on climate change mitigation, woodland owners can participate in carbon offset schemes. By managing woodlands to maximise carbon sequestration, landowners can sell carbon credits, providing a financial incentive for sustainable forestry practices. (Check out the government website for more information on the Woodland Carbon Code).
3. Agroforestry
If you want to add more trees to the farmed landscape, implementing agroforestry systems allows for the integration of agricultural crops or livestock with tree planting. This approach can generate diverse income streams, such as produce from the land (fruit, nuts, or timber) while also enhancing biodiversity.
4. Recreational Activities
Woodlands can be opened for recreational activities like walking (or tree-top walking if you are feeling adventurous), cycling, birdwatching, forest bathing or camping. Charging a fee for access or offering guided tours can create additional income. Or, educational workshops or events related to forestry, woodland management, green wood working or foraging can bring in further revenue if you have the knowledge of offer them.
5. Grants and Funding
Various grants and funding opportunities exist for woodland management in the UK, such as those provided by the Forestry Commission and local environmental bodies. Applying for these can help cover costs related to tree planting, maintenance, and habitat improvements and we at Generation Arboriculture can help. More often than not, you will need a Management Plan in place before you can apply for funding (we can help with both of those!).
6. Woodland Products
Selling non-timber forest products, such as mushrooms, wildflowers, or game, can offer additional income. Establishing a market for these products is essential, and training or partnerships may be needed to optimise your harvest, manage your harvest sustainably and ensure quality.
7. Conservation Agreements
Participating in conservation programmes or agreements can offer financial incentives. Some of these will be local whereas others may be national. These can include subsidies for maintaining or enhancing the ecological value of woodlands, which also helps in sustaining biodiversity.
8. Educational and Volunteer Opportunities
Hosting educational programmes for schools (Forest Schools, for example), community groups, or volunteer days can foster community engagement while generating some income. Partnerships with local organisations can also enhance funding potential to kick start these initiatives.
Conclusion
Like most things in life, a little money will need to be invested in order to generate a return, but a proper management plan will give you the confidence you need to support your enterprise, which you can invest back into your woodland on management works. Each approach will be tailored to the specific characteristics and conditions of your woodland to ensure that ecological integrity is not compromised while seeking finances to fund management works.
Please contact us if you would like to discuss your woodland management options.