Two Royal Forestry Society (RFS) woodlands have been awarded Grown in Britain Accreditation – independent recognition that they are managed in accordance with the UK Forestry Standard for sustainable woodland management in the UK.
The presentations for Battram Wood in the National Forest and Hockeridge and Pancake Wood on the Bucks/Herts borders near Chesham and Ashley Green, were made during an RFS and Chiltern Society conservation work party held in Grown in Britain (GIB) week at Hockeridge Wood.
RFS Chief Executive Simon Lloyd said: ” We are delighted to receive this accreditation to signal our support for Grown in Britain’s excellent work to promote the market for UK grown wood products. At both our woods we aim to balance the interests of sustainable timber and wood fuel production with biodiversity and public education and enjoyment. Our partnership with the Chiltern Society is an important element in achievement of these aims.”
Presenting the Accreditation to the RFS, Grown in Britain Chief Executive Dougal Driver said: ” We want people to think about the role of wood in their lives and we aim to create a branded supply chain which is accredited and sustainable for timber in the UK.
“All who own woodlands should aim for sustainable management. The RFS is helping lead the way by achieving accreditation and we hope many will follow suit – the process is free for woodlands under 20 hectares. Together GIB licence holders are playing a critical role in protecting our woodlands and increasing the supply of home-grown timber available in the UK.”
For the Chiltern Society Euan Russell, a volunteer leader from the Chiltern Society said:“We are pleased to join the RFS in its endeavours in Hockeridge and Pancake woodlands as part of our overall objective to provide practical support on the ground to make a difference in the Chilterns.
“Our overall aim is to improve all aspects of the Chilterns for the benefit of all and thus encourage people to enjoy this unique rural landscape.”
