Survey: Help shape the future of England's forests

As the response to the Independent Panel’s report is being prepared, DEFRA are looking at how they create more forests, manage all of those forests that already exist, make the best use of funding from a range of sources, get communities more involved in woodlands and make sure we have the right trees in the right places.

As they work on future policy, they want to hear your views and ideas on how you think they can best meet the challenges. DEFRA know what they need to do – but they now need to decide how to do it.  A good response to the first set of questions was received and these are being analysed by the Forestry Commission. A new set of questions have been published to get more information on the key issues around the Panel’s report.

Please add your views by following this link: http://www.defra.gov.uk/rural/forestry/survey/ 

Policy Exchange - NEWP 1 year on

Just been watching the embedded video of the Policy Exchange event held in London last night, looking at what has been going in on England following the publication of the Natural Environment White Paper and Rio 20+.  Caroline Spelman in attendance as key speaker, along with Chair of Natural Capital Committee.

Much generic polemic, but a good way of catching up none the less, with some interesting questions posed by the audience.

Announced Natural Connection project awarded to Plymouth University - outdoor learning including within woodland settings. Well done Sue!

And GDP plus emphasised which can't be bad, with some pragmatic economic approaches. Heyho ... recycling linked to core of sustainable growth .... yawn ....

Cultural values and others not so utilitarian largely ignored in this forum.  BUT mention the Independent Panel Report on woodlands in England to emphasise the significance of cultural services.

Sure that's Pam Warhurst sat in the front row of the audience??