This woody resource is of huge social and economic value and provides benefits including timber and wood fuel, pollination, climate regulation, improved air and water quality and reduced flood risk. People have an innate connection to woodlands and trees and they are highly valued for their beauty, wildlife, heritage and cultural associations.
Our woody assets face numerous challenges including lack of management, invasive species, disease and damage from deer and squirrels. But there are solutions such as the increasing demand for wood fuel and the potential to add value to timber products locally, along with the growing recognition among decision-makers that access to woodlands provides mental and physical benefits.
Our vision is for Devon’s woodlands and hedges to be sustainably managed and rich in wildlife through being re-connected to the local economy and local communities. Achieving our vision
Leads
Board lead: Ross Kennerley, The Woodland Trust
Working Group: Eleanor Lewis, The Woodland Trust
Current work
The Woodland Trust is currently setting up a Trees for Devon Working Group which will produce a Trees Strategy for Devon. For further information please contact Eleanor Lewis.
Read our Right Place Right Tree guidance to support woodland creation across Devon.
Devon County Council is working with DALC, Woodland Trust and Saving Devon’s Treescapes to promote and support engagement in tree planting initiatives through town and parish councils. Fill out this survey and you may be contacted for support.
More information
See our Trees and Hedges pages on the Knowledge Hub – note that these pages are in development.