Woodland Challenge Fund

This funding is to encourage planting proposals of native species within target areas identified in the Cairngorms National Park Forest Strategy using one or more of the following woodland creation options in the Scottish Forestry Grant Scheme:

• Diverse conifer (predominantly Scots pine)
• Native Scots pine
• Native upland birch
• Native broadleaves
• Native low-density broadleaves

• Studying a map Niall Benvie

  

  
• Pine saplings Mark Hamblin / SCOTLAND: The Big Picture

  

  

How is an application assessed?

Funding support will be judged according to whether the proposed scheme helps to deliver one or more of the following strategic objectives as set out in the Cairngorms National Park Forest Strategy:

• Promote the creation of new woodlands that complement other land uses
• Restore lost or vulnerable forest ecosystems
• Encourage the natural regeneration of native forests
• Promote the creation of productive woodlands
• Promote access and active enjoyment
• Promote community involvement

In addition, the funding support will be judged against the extent to which the proposed scheme may contribute towards:

• Landscape enhancement
• Woodland connectivity
• Expanding capercaillie habitat 
• Natural flood management
• Improved water shading and water quality

We will use this scoring sheet to judge applications. 

How can I apply?  

Applicants should fill out the Cairngorms National Park Woodland Challenge fund application form and provide a map of the area they are considering for woodland creation. 

Successful applicants will receive a grant offer specifying the maximum amount awarded. 

Applications may be made at any time but funding is limited each year so it is important to contact us as soon as possible.  

The Cairngorms National Park Forest Strategy

Cairngorms National Park Forest Strategy 2018

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This document contains the Cairngorms National Park Forest Strategy 2018, which sets the direction for forest management and woodland restoration in the National Park for the next two decades. It aims to help deliver the forest-related goals of the Cairngorms National Park Partnership Plan 2018-2022, encourage woodland creation, address issues affecting forests, assist with funding applications, and promote collaboration. The strategy emphasizes improving habitat conditions, enhancing the landscape, and recognizing good practices in moorland management while managing grazing to allow woodland regeneration. The document also focuses on habitat enhancement, rural development, and the importance of forests to people, with an emphasis on community involvement and sustainable use of forest resources. It concludes with targeting woodland creation to achieve the greatest environmental, social, and economic benefits.

Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.

Cairngorms National Park Forest Strategy 2018 Annexes

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This document contains the annexes to the Cairngorms National Park Forest Strategy 2018. It details the Park Authority's guidance on policy fit with strategic objectives and Scottish Natural Heritage's assessment of suitability for woodland expansion or creation on designated sites within the Cairngorms National Park. The document lists specific locations with their SAC (Special Areas of Conservation) or SPA (Special Protection Areas) status and provides information on the suitability for woodland expansion or creation in those areas.

Please be aware that this summary has been generated using AI.