The First Minister Mark Drakeford announced his intention to develop a National Forest for Wales in his manifesto commitments in 2018. A National Forest would deliver against a wide range of priorities which includes a contribution towards maximising the number of trees planted to contribute to decarbonisation goals, supporting the reversal of decline in biodiversity, seeing positive effects on physical health and wellbeing, supporting commercial business activity for example from timber production and adventure tourism.
On 12 March 2020 the First Minister officially launched the National Forest Programme. Together with Minister for Environment Energy and Rural Affairs Lesley Griffiths he described an ambition for a National Forest that extends the length and breadth of Wales and announced that an extensive engagement period would commence so that creating a National Forest for Wales will be ‘…a collective effort with government, business and communities all working towards a shared goal’. The press release can be found by following this link National Forest Launch
We would like to understand your views or the views of your organisation on the development of a National Forest in Wales. It is very important to us to hear from you, to create a National Forest that will not only promote tree planting and proactive management of new and existing woodland in Wales and provide opportunities for traditional and innovative economic activity, but will also connect people to the trees and woods around them and provide habitats for nature.
To achieve this ambition we need to ensure that we develop proposals and plans for the National Forest that work for everyone. We will soon be hosting online workshops as we want to work with farmers, Communities, businesses and organisations, Councils and other interested parties to understand what will make the National Forest a success.
The first event will be held on 3rd September 2020. Register here to join us! https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/gweithdy-cynllun-coedwig-cenedlaethol-national-forest-plan-workshop-2020-tickets-116606867279?ref=estw
In the meantime, if you have any questions regarding the National Forest for Wales please contact us at NationalForestWales@gov.wales or for up to date information use #NationalForestWales