The Woodland Trust is calling for the Scottish government to embed trees more deeply into how land is used and supported.

Well-designed tree planting can provide shelter for livestock, reduce soil erosion and flooding, improve soil health, improve water quality and support pollinators.

The approach, known as agroforestry, allows land to remain productive while delivering environmental benefits spanning across hedgerows, field trees, shelterbelts, orchards and small woodlands.

Kate Fry, policy advocate for forestry and land use says:

"Trees must be fully integrated into Scotland’s evolving farm payment system, with funding designed to encourage uptake rather than unintentionally discourage it."

Fry also explains that Woodland Trust Scotland is calling for public investment through the Forestry Grant Scheme to prioritise sustainable, nature-rich forestry, including ensuing that planting stock is sourced from the UK and Ireland wherever possible.

Woodland Trust Scotland says government incorporate trees across land use planning to build a resilient rural economy while tackling climate and nature crises.

Additionally, entries for Scotland’s Finest Woods Awards 2026 are now open, looking to highlight excellence in woodlands and forestry.