Case Study

New Forest, UK

For this case study, our main focus is to enhance people’s enjoyment and quality of experience of the New Forest National Park, while safeguarding the special qualities of the area.

Additionally, our focus is to address changes in societal demand:

1) investigate how long-term species composition changes affect forest value chain by identifying key drivers of wood supply to construct scenarios, 2) and analysing trade-offs with other services requirements (e.g. carbon storage, water services, recreation), 3) and foreseen forest expansions.

Quick overview

Area: 56,658 ha
Value chain: Limited wood processing
Biogeografical area: Atlantic
Species composition

In short

Case Study - New Forest, UK
Disturbances	Drought	Storms	lllllllllllllllllllllll
Ecosystem Services	Outdoor recreation	Biodiversity conservation

Case study Q&A

How does the value chain look like: supply, demand, timber market?

The New Forest produces approximately 50,000 tonnes of timber per annum. In this Case Study, woodlands occur both within inclosed areas that are legally designated for silviculture (“silvicultural inclosures”) and in noninclosed areas (“open forest”). In the Inclosures, the Forestry Commission uses timber sales/tender to market the timber. The timber comes from areas that are either thinned to promote the growth of the remaining trees or from areas cleared for replanting or restoration to other habitats, such as heathland.

What are the silvicultural measures applied – if any?

Woodlands are managed with the dual purposes of (1) conserving and enhancing the natural beauty, wildlife, and cultural heritage and (2) promoting opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the Park by the public

Large scale clearance of non-native species and gradual rebalancing in favour of broadleaves, reversion to heathland and reinstatement of river courses and wetlands.

Overall, 30,318 hectares (53.5% of the land area) of the National Park is managed primarily to enhance the characteristic landscapes and habitats of the New Forest.

What is the amount of the wood harvested?

The New Forest produces approximately 50,000 tonnes of timber per annum, equivalent to over 2,000 lorry loads each year. During the winter months the forest produces some 1,000 tonnes of quality hardwoods, mainly oak, that is largely used for green oak buildings and beams.

Case Study – UK