“These papers are written in an accessible style to contribute to the current debate. Together, they provide a taste of some of the key issues that forestry faces, as well as the benefits it provides. The Independent Panel on Forestry is in the final stages of its deliberations and media interest will rise again when it publishes its recommendations to ministers in the summer.

“England’s broadleaved woodlands are rightly lauded and their benefits well understood by most, but the importance of softwoods is rarely appreciated. They support an industry, from nurseries and timber growers, through forestry contracting and management businesses, to timber harvesting and processing companies, which is the backbone of forestry in England, yet many people seem to be unaware of their existence and significance.

“It is vitally important that the media, public and decision-makers consider all relevant interests. This series of papers seeks to fill some of the gaps that have been evident over the last 18 months. We hope they will be widely read.“

They can be accessed on Confors site www.confor.org.uk

Source:Confor .