FSL undertakes Integrated Forest Management of all the forest properties under their management.
Forest management is defined as the stewardship and use of forests to maintain their biodiversity, productivity, and vitality, ensuring they fulfil ecological, economic, and social functions now and in the future, as guided by national standards and guidance in accordance with national and EU laws and regulations.
Forest management is a balanced approach, aligning with international definitions of Sustainable Forest Management (SFM), that integrates timber production with environmental protection and social benefits.
Essentially, it’s about managing forests responsibly for multiple benefits, not just wood, for present and future generations, following national and European policies and forestry best practice.
This integrated approach is reflected in the forest management planning, which incorporates assessment of the forest property in terms of:
- Forest area and location
- Forest Management History
- Management Constraints
- Management Objectives
- Landscape sensitivities
- Species selection
- Soil type
- Elevation
- Ecological sensitivities, including
- Water courses and connectivity
- Biodiversity
- High Conservation Value (incl. Statutory designations, Archaeology, Rare Threatened or Endangered (RTE) species)
- Invasive species
- Pests & diseases, including deer damage
FSL employs an ecologist to assist forest managers with the above ecological assessments.
The above assessments are mapped as appropriate.
The Forest Management Plan determines the type and level of monitoring and mitigation measures required to protect the environment in accordance with sustainable forest management. Particular care is taken when planning and undertaking forest management activities, which are carefully monitored.
Any conditions attached to DAFM Licences are incorporated in the forest management planning and the operational planning process.
Stakeholder consultation on Forest Management Planning is undertaken through the website and site notices prior to the first management plan and every 5 years thereafter.
Summary Management Plans are available on request.