APRIL 14, 2014: Plenty of smallholders get grants to give them a helping hand financially. Here is one case study.
Grants case study: David Brown, Elwy Valley, North WalesBron Haul Farm, in the Elwy Valley, has 20 years’ history of establishing and managing broadleaf woodland. Its owner, David Brown, recently completed five years’ work in his young woodland under a Better Woodlands for Wales management plan. As a result, the woodland received two awards for the quality of its management in the Royal Welsh Show 2012. David says: “I was disappointed that the BWW scheme closed, as it promoted a long term view of woodland management. However, I have entered my woodland into the Glastir Woodland Management scheme, and although there have been delays, this scheme has the potential to greatly improve Welsh woodland.” As his woodland matures, David is increasingly convinced of its value to his farm. As well as sheltering grazing land, the first thinning has provided firewood for his home and a number of local customers. He says: “The woodland is a valuable source of fencing posts. Last winter, I coppiced sweet chestnut and used the stems to fence four hectares. This deer exclosure is being planted with mixed broadleaf under Glastir Woodland Creation and the coppiced chestnut stools have put on 6ft of growth through the summer; the next crop of fencing posts is already on its way!” David offers courses in woodland establishment and management. Contact him at davidbrown40@hotmail.co.uk MORE: Glastir information is at: http://wales.gov.uk/topics/environmentcountryside/farmingandcountryside >/farming/schemes/glastir/?lang=enPhoto: David Brown recently completed five years work on his young woodlandMORE CASE STUDIES: See our May issue
