It has been a relatively turbulent few years for our industry which is more used to blending into the background whilst quietly delivering its many benefits. With changes in the global and domestic economy, in the political climate, in the tax environment, and in industry regulations, there has been much to occupy and animate foresters and forest owners.
The saying The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best is now. will always be relevant but it feels particularly relevant now, and not just to a forester.
Fortunately, time horizons for growing trees are long. Turbulent times less so. For a number of years, we have been blessed with strong support from politicians of all flavours to plant trees at a more meaningful scale. We may not yet have the innate societal understanding of the benefits of forests and trees our European counterparts enjoy, but from a relatively low base things are improving. More trees is a good thing.
Across the UK nations there are strong incentives for planting. The England Woodland Creation Offer (EWCO), the Scottish Forestry Grant Scheme (FGS), and the Woodland Creation Grant in Wales all offer healthy incentives to plant trees to meet a variety of objectives.
England Woodland Creation Offer
A replacement for the old Woodland Creation Planning Grant, this scheme offers grants to contribute to costs associated with due diligence, delivery through payments at standard costs of relevant elements (planting/fencing etc), and maintenance at a payment per hectare over a 15 year period. There are additional financial incentives available for delivering public benefits which may be claimed in addition to planting grants.
Forestry Grant Scheme, Scotland
With more of a focus on scale grants for afforestation in Scotland are area based payments dependent on the nature of the scheme proposed. There are 9 options to choose from with applications commonly a combination of two or more options.
Supporting these payments are grants to support associated capital items (fencing/gorse removal) at set rates.
Woodland Creation Grant, Wales
The scheme provides funding for the planting of trees and the installation of fencing and gates. It also offers 12 years of maintenance and premium payments (compensation for loss of agricultural income).
As we move further into 2025, the forestry sector continues to adapt and evolve in response to a shifting economic, political, and regulatory landscape. Despite the turbulence of recent years, the long-term nature of forestry provides a sense of stability and purpose that anchors our work.
The strong incentives available across the UK offer significant opportunities to plant trees and realise their many benefits. Whether the goal is timber production, carbon sequestration, or enhancing landscapes for amenity, the tools and support are in place to make meaningful progress.
With careful planning and the right advice, foresters and landowners alike can take advantage of this moment to plant trees that will provide lasting value. As always, the best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago, but now remains an excellent second choice.
