RDR, CAP and Forestry Sandy Greig Head of Forestry Authority Forestry Commission, England
What I will cover The role of the Forestry Commission Forestry and Woodland in England What Government Wants RDR and Forestry Grants Effects of CAP Reform Future Opportunities
The Role of the Forestry Commission Government Department, GB wide Defra Minister Land Manager Policy advice to Ministers Regulation and Grant Aid
Forestry and Woodland in England 1.1 million hectares (8.4%) (Europe 46%) 67% broadleaf 19% FC 75,000 woods Average size c.14 hectares
What Government Wants (1) Existing Woodlands More woodland in sustainable management Greater contribution to rural development Better delivery of environmental benefits –biodiversity –public access –landscape –cultural heritage
What Government Wants (2) New Woodland Improving people’s lives Delivering environmental benefits –biodiversity –public access –landscape improvement Improving the rural economy
RDR and Forestry Grants England Rural Development Programme £18m per annum All grants eligible for co-financing Also Processing and Marketing Grants
Effects of CAP Reform Uncertainty May have to adjust our grants Cross Compliance Abandonment
Future Opportunities (RDR Successor) Better integration of forestry measures Further shift to Pillar 2 Greater flexibility/Subsidiarity Understanding of forestry’s role in sustainable rural development