ForestHarvest :   non-timber forest products in Scotland

Conifer plantations

Conifer plantations make up the majority of Scotland's forests. These are densely planted with species such as Sitka spruce, Norway spruce, larch and Scots pine, and managed specifically for softwood timber production. The density of the planting allows little light to penetrate the canopy, and the ground flora tends therefore to be rather poor. When the trees are mature, the forests are generally clear-felled.

Until around 1990 most new forests were planted on poorer land that was considered unsuitable for agriculture. Planting policy has now changed, with more woods being established on better land, and with a greater diversity of species.

• About half of Scotland's conifer plantations are owned by the Forestry Commission, and managed by Forest Enterprise.
• Large tracts of conifer plantation were established between the 1950s and the 1980s. These forests are currently approaching maturity.
• Low timber prices, combined with stiff competition from the Baltic, has raised concerns over the economic viability of felling some of these plantations.
• In addition to producing timber, these plantations provide amenity benefits for local people and visitors.

What to find in a conifer plantation

Blaeberry

Moss

Red deer

Roe deer