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Managing for Resilience 2022

Twelve case studies feature in this updated report to share the experiences of woodlands facing up to the challenges of climate change.

By Wendy Necar · March 2, 2022

“Managing for Resilience” has been published by the Royal Forestry Society (RFS) in partnership with the Forestry Commission. It now includes the winners and runners up in the All-England Woodland Resilience Awards which were hosted by the Forestry Climate Change Partnership to mark COP26.

Sites vary from the heavy soils of Northumberland, through the sandy soils of Nottinghamshire, to the chalk of the South Downs. All are working to increase resilience in the face of climate change, pests and diseases.

RFS Chief Executive Christopher Williams says: “One of the greatest challenges for our members is making sure their woodlands are resilient to climate change.

“There is no one answer. What all these case studies have in common is a willingness to act now, consider the advice that is available and look at diverse species to spread the risks. It is a must read for all who are looking to develop their woodland.”

Emily Fensom, Forestry Commission, said: “This series highlights the urgency with which woodland owners and managers in England are responding to the climate emergency and the effect it will have on their trees, woods and forests. The ten case studies provide useful examples of how management can be altered to enhance resilience.”

A short companion report, Resources for Managing Woodland for Resilience, is also available. This contains free forest management resources linked to resilience from climate change, adaptations and surveying and maintenance of the soil resource.