The government has launched plans to provide grants to land managers – including farmers – to take action against tree pests and diseases which attack trees, woods and forests.
Owners and managers of trees and woodlands in England are being encouraged to take part in the pilot of the Tree Health Scheme that starts in August.
Measures will include biosecure felling and treatment of diseased or infested trees. The scheme will also support the restocking and maintenance of newly replanted trees following a pest or disease outbreak.
The pilot will last for three years and, following scrupulous testing and final revisions, the new scheme will fully roll out in 2024.
Details of the pilot will be published in the summer ahead of applications opening at the end of August, 2021.
The Agricultural Transition Plan
The pilot delivers on the government’s commitment – set out in the Agricultural Transition Plan – to reduce the impact of tree pests and disease.
It will work alongside plans for a renewed agricultural sector, which will transform the way farmers and land managers are supported to encourage sustainable farming practices alongside profitable food production.
The plans include new schemes to reward farmers and land managers for producing public goods, such as better air and water quality, thriving wildlife, soil health, or measures to reduce flooding and tackle the effects of climate change.
As set out in the Agricultural Transition Plan, the new Tree Health Scheme will expand upon the current support available via the Countryside Stewardship Tree Health grants.
Prof. Nicola Spence, the UK’s chief plant health officer, said:
“Trees provide huge benefits to our economy, society and the environment – from protecting vulnerable wildlife and acting as carbon storage to enabling a sustainable timber industry.
“That’s why it is crucial that collectively, we look after our woodland and forests. I hope all those who are eligible will apply to the pilot this summer.
They will play a critical role in supporting the design of future policies for the benefit of both our environment and valuable industries.”
The pilot will be looking to trial new elements of the future scheme through 100 agreements with woodland owners and land managers in London, the South East, the North West and West Midlands.
Applicants will need to have an eligible tree pest or disease confirmed on their land by the Forestry Commission, which will run the scheme.
