At Bowlts our forestry team has helped to establish some of the most extensive new native woodlands in the north of Scotland. In the process, we have acquired a unique level of expertise in this specialised form of land management and this is the foundation of a reputation that is second to none.

We can provide: • Implementation from initial design to completion. • New schemes delivered on schedule and on budget. • A dedicated and highly experienced forestry team. • Hi-tech GIS mapping and survey services. • Preparation of environmental impact assessments/audits. • Assistance to claim grants and establish a forest management plan. • Tailor-made cash flow forecasts.

Concept Design...
                                
We take a hands-on approach to the delivery of new native woodland schemes. Our in-house forestry team has acquired a wide range of skills and resources to enable us to emulate the values of existing native woodlands and enhance habitat networks whilst still ensuring the economic viability of new schemes. Indeed, budgeting is the foundation of our success - and, as a result, all aspects of our budget preparation are extremely thorough with clients receiving detailed cash flows for one, five and 15 years.

Our native woodland designs are part science, part imagination. We use all the tools at our disposal to ensure that each woodland is individually designed to achieve a natural appearance; one which recreates the conservation, recreation, landscape and heritage characteristics of traditional native woodlands. Whether we are dealing with native Caledonian pine woods or Atlantic oak woods, we can create detailed drawings and 3D models to illustrate to any interested parties - landowners, local authorities, the local community - just how the landscape is going to change in the short term and how it is going to mature over the years.

Planning and Preparation...
                                                     
Following discussion of our initial designs, and long before the first tree is planted, we will complete a detailed planning phase. This is characterised by our fastidious attention to detail and the advanced use of global positioning system and digital mapping (GIS).

If required, we can also undertake full Environmental Impact Assessments or Environmental Audits. Our experience and our links with the various agencies involved enable us to define the main issues which any EIA or EA should address. This allows resources to be accurately targeted, essential information and data to be gathered and our final reports to be prepared at a reasonable cost. Where appropriate, we can select and co-ordinate the specialist inputs required for ornithological, ecological and/or archaeological surveys. Likewise, we will prepare and complete landscape appraisals, if necessary.

Implementation...
                                  
Once all the design and planning issues are settled, we will oversee the planting contract to ensure that all the work is carried out to the highest appropriate standards on schedule and to budget.

We enjoy excellent access to sources of native seed from throughout the Highlands for both Scots pine and broadleaf species. Ground preparation techniques will be selected to produce as natural an appearance as possible. Subject to the specific design considerations, woodlands will be planted with a mix of suitable species at constantly varying densities according to ground conditions. Overall, woodland and open ground will be balanced to form the intimate mosaic found in existing native woodlands.

Management and Maintenance...
                                                             
Following the completion of the planting contract, and the claiming of all grants, we can undertake the ongoing management and maintenance of native woodland initiatives.

We are able to advise on the best practice in forestry management designed to realise both environmental and commercial goals. We can advise on annual management grants and woodland improvement grants and also provide information on woodland insurance, woodland restructuring and future timber sales.