Help for owners and managers of native broadleaved woodland

A handbook designed to help the owners and managers of native broadleaved woodland get the most from their trees has been published by the Forestry Commission.

Enititled ‘Managing Native Broadleaved Woodland’, the handbook was  written to provide advice that will help managers understand and manage their woodland. A wide variety of subjects is covered, from identifying woodland communities and management planning, to silvicultural techniques, nature conservation and vegetation management, including the use of grazing animals.

The background and principles of each topic are explained and case studies are used throughout. Interactions between site characteristics and historic management are also considered in relation to future management options. The handbook also highlights the questions that managers should ask when considering management options for their woodlands which take account of location, site characteristics and objectives.

The 508-page paperback book is illustrated and explained with 322 colour photographs, 24 diagrams and maps, and 77 tables of information.

It was written by Ralph Harmer, Gary Kerr and Richard Thompson of Forest Research, the scientific research and technical development arm of the Forestry Commission.

The Forestry Commission handbook ‘Managing Native Broadleaved Woodland’ costs 30.00 and is available from Customer Services, The Stationery Office (TSO), St Crispins, Duke Street, Norwich NR3 1PD; www.tsoshop.co.uk; tel: 0870 600 5522. The e-mail address for enquiries is customer.services@tso.co.uk.

Copies are also available for sale at the APF International Forestry Exhibition at Cannock Chase, Staffordshire today, Thursday 23 September, tomorrow and Saturday.