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Lussa Forest Design Plan 2012-21

Planning

West Argyll Forest District

Dalbuie

Forest Design Plan

Plan Reference No: 033/W/D/ Plan Approval Date: Plan Expiry Date:

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Dalbuie Forest Design Plan 2014-23

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Planning

Contents

Summary of Proposals

1.0 Introduction:

1.1 Setting and context 1.2 History of plan

2.0 Analysis of previous plan

3.0 Background Description

3.1 Physical site factors 3.2 Biodiversity and environmental designations 3.3 The existing forest 3.4 Landscape and landuse 3.5 Social factors 3.6 Statutory requirements and key external policies

4.0 Analysis and Concept

4.1 Analysis 4.2 Plan concepts

5.0 Management Proposals

5.1 Forest stand management proposals 5.2 Future habitats and species 5.3 Restructuring 5.4 Future management 5.5 Age structure 5.6 PAWS restoration 5.7 Deer Management 5.8 Access 5.9 Critical success factors

Appendices:

i) Consultation record ii) Tolerance table

iii) FDP brief iv) Glossary v) Supplementary documentation

Support documents: Maps and photos

Location Figure 1.1 Location Map Viewpoints Figure 2.1 Viewpoints Map Figure 2.2 View 1 from B842 Figure 2.3 View 2 - Balnabraid Glen Figure 2.4 View 3 - Cockalane from Minor Road Figure 2.5 View 4 - Ru Stafnish, below Minor Road Figure 2.6 View 5 - Ru Stafnish, above Minor Road Figure 2.7 View 6 - Across Glen Mucklach Figure 2.8 View 7 – Blown LP. Feochaig Figure 2.9 View 8 – Glen Mucklach

Background Maps including Key Features and Current Species Maps Figure 3.1 DAMS Figure 3.2 Climatic Data Figure 3.3 Designations Figure 3.4 Existing Habitat Networks Figure 3.5 Ancient Woodland Sites Figure 3.6 Access and Powerlines Figure 3.7 NVC Survey Figure 3.8 Heritage Features Figure 3.9 Water Features Figure 3.10 Strategic Planning Zones Figure 3.11 Private Woodland Schemes Figure 3.12 Soils by largest components Figure 3.13 Conservation features Figure 3.14 Tree species by largest component Figure 3.15 Yield classes by largest component Analysis and Concept Maps Figures 4.1 Opportunities and Constraints Map Figures 4.2 Concept Map Management Proposals Figures 5.1 Management Concept Map Figure 5.2 Management Approval Map Figure 5.3 Thinning Map? Figure 5.4 Future Habitats and Species Map


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Figure 5.5 Future Habitats and Species Concepts Map Figure 5.6 Future Habitats and Species Approval Map Figure 5.7 Future Habitat Networks Map Figure 5.8 Access and Roading Map Figure 5.9 Roads Approval Map


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Summary of proposals

The Strategic Plan for West Argyll Forest District includes a vision statement, to trict

.

n ental context

Social context

which each individual Forest Design Plan (FDP) will make a contribution. The DisVision Statement states that ‘West Argyll FD will be a key land manager in Argyll, producing quality timber for the market, providing sustainable employment in both the public and private rural sectors, and opportunities for renewable energy projectsWe will also provide well-managed native woodlands for wildlife and places for enjoyment for visitors and local communities’. The Dalbuie FDP revision contributes to the District Vision by seeking the following outcomes:-

conomic context E Approval for 341.2ha of felling and 307.2ha of restocking is being sought, for

completion within the first 10 years of the plan. Timber production from felling operations is currently estimated at

18Km3/annum in the short term and 10Km3/annum thereafter until 2027. Reassessment of felling dates to ensure process of restructuring is on track and

clearance of windblow prioritised. Construction of new roads requires EIA approval for 3.3Km of new roading, and

felling approval for 7.7ha of associated roadline felling within the first 5 years of the plan.

vironmE Full restoration of PAWS is incorporated, in line with current policy.

Development of habitat network framework for native woodlands, o pen space and riparian corridors.

Protection of sensitive conservation features through appropriate silvicultural design in respect of Balnabraid Glen SSSI

Species diversification or change in response to Climate Change Agenda, national targets for broadleaves and plant health issues.

Landscape en hancement with particular reference to views from public roads and

proposed new routing of the Kintyre Way.


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1.0 Introduction

Dalbuie Forest is located at the bottom end of the Kintyre peninsular. The plan on.

sultees. The

d

production. Key plan objectives from the

n.

networks.

on of Balnabraid Glen SSSI.

gepole pine.

r features and water supplies.

e Climate Change agenda and plant

ocation Map

1.1 Setting and context

covers 1912ha. Southend and Campbeltown are the nearest centres of populatiThe surrounding area is a mixture of private commercial plantations, agricultural land with dairy, beef and arable use, and higher elevation open moorland used for sheep grazing. Arinarach Hill is the highest point in the forest at 312m and is the principle area of open space in the property. Feochaig Hill is the site of a Civil Aviation Authority compound with radio transmission masts.

SNH and Argyll & Bute Council are the Forest District’s statutory conCommunity Councils has been made aware of the plan revision proposals. The Consultation Record provides a summary of all formal correspondence, issues raiseand FD responses (see appendix). he forest is managed primarily for timber T

design brief can be summarised as follows: - Timber production.

Full PAWS restoratio

Development of habitat

Landscape improvement.

Enhancement and protecti

Review of management prescriptions for windblown Lod

Construction of new forest roads.

Protection and enhancement wate

Protection and enhancement of cultural heritage assets.

To comply with UKWAS guidance for certification.

Species diversification or change in response to thhealth issues.

L

1.2 History of the woodlands Dalbuie was acquired in several parts, between 1965 and 1977. These areas

77

a blown

represented the higher hill ground sold off by adjoining farms. The block was predominantly planted between 1965 and 1973, with the later acquisition of 19planted in 1982. Agricultural land at Dalbuie House was partly sold off and partly planted in 1992, with a research tree improvement experiment taking up much of the planted area. Over 80% was planted with Sitka spruce, with several blocks of pure South Coastal Lodgepole pine and a few smaller areas of larch. Felling commenced in 1999 following serious windblow the previous year, with 300hdown. The pine was largely excluded from production in the previous plans on account of low value, butt sweep and windblow. Some areas of windblow have


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e

2.0 Analysis of previous plan

The previous plan set out specific objectives and goals, which form a basis of

Objectives Goals Analysis

occurred in recent years, resulting in changes to felling dates. A significant investment in road construction over the last 14 years has resulted in much of thfinal road network now being in place.

assessment:-

To ensure an appropriate bain Dalbuie between maintaining a qualitytimber supply and achieving non-market objectives.

lance

Match tto the econo

he silvicultural systems mic and non-market

objectives, including treatment of Lodgepole Pine areas and windblown spruce. Ensure an adequate access infrastructure in Dalbuie,

including proposals for Feochaig section. Give residents the oppoto contribute

rtunity to the planning

process. Ensure a realistic timeframe frestructuring

or in crops

approaching terminal height, reassessing windblow on coupe felling dates. Ensure windfirm coupe boundaries where

possible,

including recouping of newly restocked areas.

Windblow mManagemen

ostly cleared. t of remaining areas

of LP to be resolved.

Final road network mostly now in

place. Limited dialogue regarding

access past Dalbuie House and other water supplies. Ongoing windblow has resulted in revision of felling date

s, but

restructuring still on track.

As per plan.

Increase the

f o the

contribution oDalbuie forest twider landscape

d minor public

road, including reassessment of areas in public view subject to windblow damage. Consider SNH’s Landscape guideline recommendati

Enhance the landscape value from the B824 an

ons in

the design, including settings of archaeological sites.

Still issues around Feochaig from pine retentions and wind damage here and at Cockalane.

As per plan.

Ensure that Dalbuie contributes appropriately to the District policies on designated areas, conservation and archaeology.

s per

agreements with the relevant agencies (SNH - Balnabraid SSSI). Ensure protection and enhanc

Incorporate management plans for designated sites a

ement of watercourses

and private water catchments

Incorporated. As per plan, no issues.

within the boundary. Ensure that ancient m onuments are afforded appropriate buffer zones.

Develop riparian zones as wildlife corridors. Incorporate new H APS proposals into the restocking framework.

As per plan. As per plan. As per plan.

A number of issues have arisen within the plan areas since the above changes.

new District Strategic Plan for the period 2014 -17expands on six key themes

e

ealthy, achieving good environmental and silvicultural condition in a changing

ve, providing sustainable economic benefits from the land. proves quality

ures that are well promoted,

ure and respecting landscapes, natural and cultural

ue, exemplary, effective and efficient delivery of public benefits.

These include:- Areas of blown Lodgepole pine may potentially have new markets, notably

biofuel. Clearance would improve the visual appearance of parts of the forest. Much of the remaining LP has degraded beyond economic recovery and is also regenerating with more of the same. Dothistroma (Red Band Needle Blight) has affected some areas of windblown pine. Further windblow has occurred, requiring additional changes to timing of felling.

Forest resilience to climate change would encourage further species diversification. Plant health iss ues have resulted in bans on planting larch, ash and Lodgepole pine (with the exception of Alaskan provenance in mixture with spruce). Several private woodland owners have asked for access to the road netw ork, but the FC does not yet have full rights over the egress onto the B842 (resolution expected shortly).

Aintroduced in the National Strategic Directions document, making specific districtresponses to these key commitments. The Dalbuie FDP revision now needs to takthese into consideration. These themes are as follows:- Hclimate. ProductiTreasured, as a multi-purpose resource that sustains livelihoods, imof life, and offers involvement and enjoyment. Accessible, local woodlands and national treaswelcoming and open for all. Cared for, working with natheritage. Good val


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3.0 Background Description

The solid geology of much of the area comprises Old Red Sandstone. There are

e to

n rective, the assessment for the Kerran Water was cted

s are served by private water supplies and catchments. Septic

y

s, with slope instability and

been S

3.1 Site factors

3.1.1 eologG y and soils

however, two sections of Dalradian schists (Quartoze mica-schist), which give risBlanket bogs. Peaty gleys and Surface-water gleys cover much of the remainder of the forest area. The lowest areas contain some mineral soils. Aerial fertilisation of the forest at new planting comprised chiefly of P (Phosphorus), with some areas alsoreceiving K (Potassium). N (nitrogen) was also applied to the later plantings on Arinarach Hill. Some areas were later given a remedial application of P. Remedial heather treatment using 2,4 D was also undertaken throughout the forest. Typical associated vegetation types are; heather/molina mixes on the poorer soils and rush/bracken/grass swards on the lower slopes. The area has few rock outcrops, but is dissected by two gullied glens, Glen Kerran and Glen Mucklach. The hills arerounded, with some plateaux areas with deeper peats and poorer growth.

3.1.2 Water Soil, wate r and air quality

der the Water Framework Di Uclassed as ‘poor’. Its status was not expected to improve by 2015, but was expeto reach ‘good’ status by 2026 following restructuring and a considerable amount of felling has already taken place. Boxed culverts impeding fish migration were also noted affecting the river, but there are no boxed culverts in Dalbuie Forest. The Chiscan Water, on the northern edge of the forest, was classed as ‘good’. No watercourses were classified as ‘definitely at risk’. Meetings with SEPA in 2007 outlined harvesting plans and progress to date made to reduce threats to these waterbodies.

Private propertietanks are likely to be associated with properties in the forest area. Water supplfeatures are not currently fully mapped in GIS and precise arrangements for properties bordering FC land are not fully known.

Slope instability is known in the steep-sided gullieslippage relatively commonplace. Most of the gullies and watercourses have afforded reasonable open buffers in the second rotation. No areas feature in the FCSlope Instability dataset.

3.1.3 Climate

Adapting to climate change Continentality is low (3 to 4), the blocks being close to the sea. The climatic region is described variously for most of the plan areas as ‘warm, moist or wet. Exposure is mostly moderate to severe. Arinarach Hill is classed as ‘cool, wet, and highly exposed’. Improvements in forest design and silvicultural choices will help offset the impacts of future gales on the forest. Species choice is more limited in the cooler wetter, more exposed areas. Glen Kerran and Glen Mucklach contain significant native woodland habitat networks. These networks are ij the process of being expanded and extended within the forest. There are however, no associated native woodland networks downstream to link to. There are extensive open habitat networks to the north of the forest. These link with Arinarach Hill, but there are no other notable areas of open space in the plan area. Balnabraid Glen provides a native woodland network, linking with coastal broadleaves, but there is no scope for linkage into the forest. Deep peat soil types where present provide a natural carbon sink, albeit now largely drained and afforested. There are no peat restoration projects in the forest at present. Flood and Catchment Management No cases of flooding directly attributable to the forest area are known. No issues have been reported in relation to neighbours.

Renewable Energy There is a potential windfarm development within the block, but this has been delayed pending grid connection availability. A windfarm proposal on neighbouring Kilchattan Hill was rejected by the planning authorities in 2012.

3.2 Biodiversity and environmental designations Designated sites

Natura sites and SSSI’s

The Balnabraid Glen SSSI has section on FC ground, most being near the top of the glen, plus a tiny bit on the coast. An agreed management plan is in place, covering the period 2011-16. The previous plan contained proposals for expanding the area of native woodland adjacent to the SSSI, although the timescale for this was medium term, given optimal felling dates for the conifers on the site and provision of road access. The woodland contains one of the largest fragments of alder woodland in the Kintyre


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peninsular. The coastal section is noted for lichens. The alder woodland has been assessed and given the condition ‘unfavourable, recovering’. Monitoring is undertaken by SNH. The management agreement requires the granting of consent for felling operations in the designated area.

Ancient Woodland sites: Very little Ancient Woodland is recorded on the NCCS Inventory maps. These are confined to Glen Mucklach, a small section of Glen Kerran and a strip bordering Balnabraid Glen. These areas have been assessed for threats and ecological value. Mapping inaccuracies in the NCCS layer are accounted for in an FD remapping exercise. Continuous cover policies will be adopted where possible on Ancient Woodland sites. Natural regeneration is the preferred method of establishment on these sites.

Species and habitats

Birds

Hen harriers have nested in the block. Other raptors are also seen.

Barn owl barrels are sited around the forest. Short-eared owls have also been recorded.

Black and Red grouse are seen in and around the forest. Several leks are known in the area. They have made use of young restocks over the last 10 years, particularly those adjacent to open moorland.

Other wildlife

Lichens are abundant in Glen Mucklach.

Some steep-sided gullies contain ferns, lichens, rowan, honeysuckle and ivy.

Otters have been seen in Glen Kerran.

Open land NVC classification is mostly complete for the open fringes along the northern edge, but excluding Arinarach Hill. It includes 24.8 ha of lost land above Balnabraid Glen, classed mainly as H12a heathland, M19a blanket mire and Calcifugous grasslands. SNH further identified Sphagnum recurvum Sphagnum recurvum here. It is currently affected by the management regimes on the neighbouring Kildalloig Estate, which has included CPS (Countryside Premium Scheme) and WGS (Woodland Grant Scheme) for Balnabraid Glen. Both involve grazing management, with Black grouse habitat improvement one of the aims. The lost land is currently subject to disputed ownership between the estate and the FC.

Open land within the native woodland areas is confined to areas of landslip.

Open Water There is no open water in the plan area. Native Woodlands

Glen Mucklach contains alder, willow and rowan, often in pure blocks, with some birch. Both the alder and hazel have been coppiced in the past. Occasional sycamore trees are present along with a few elms in Glen Kerran. Several pockets of first rotation SS also remain left due to inaccessibility for harvesting machinery. The alder are judged to be about 200 years old. Regeneration has been very limited due to deer pressure, but is more evident in the opened up sections of Glen Kerran.

Invasive Exotic Species

None known. However, gorse is an issue around Dalbuie House.

Deer Management

The majority of deer within the FDP management area are roe however sika and red are also present in very low numbers. Deer numbers are under control at present. There is no external deer fencing, except where adjoining private woodland owners have erected it and around the research experiment. Broadleaved regeneration Natural regeneration of broadleaves is fairly certain on most Ancient Woodland sites. Regeneration around the periphery of existing seed sources is fairly good, although less is showing further up the glens, where seed sources are much reduced and vegetation/soils less favourable. There is a general policy for the removal of birch where productive forestry is desired.

Landscapes and Ecosystems Native woodland habitat corridors are fragmented, primarily due to lack of linkages on adjoining private ground. The Glen Mucklach/Glen Kerran native woodland network is developing within the forest. There are several links with adjoining private commercial forests. Open riparian networks have been improved through restructuring at the second rotation. Most open networks link with open land on adjoining private estates and farms.

http://eol.org/pages/928390/overview


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3.3 The existing forest

3.31 Age class, species and yield class

s and exposure limit choice. LP was previously chosen for its suitability on

Pure Sitka spruce has generally achieved YC12 or above, including on most restock

as

Phythophthora ramorum has been identified on larch and rhododendron at Carradale.

.

Ash planting is currently prohibited due to Chalara, although none has been found so

Timber supply has been strongly influenced by windblow, gales in 1998 and 2011 cial

Most of the forest will grow good quality Sitka spruce. Larch form is not good in

ce

inning

Species Choice

Soilunflushed Blanket bogs, achieving YC8. A number of pure blocks were planted, all apparently of South coastal origin and subsequently have suffered collapse and windblow. No intimate SS/LP mixtures were planted in the first rotation and noneso far in the second rotation. Dothistroma may prevent the planting of some pine species in the future. Dothistroma has been identified in the LP in the Cockalane section of the forest. Currently, planting of pure Lodgepole pine in FC forests is prohibited.

sites. Higher yield classes are achievable on the drier sites. Douglas fir has been grown in the research experiment site, formerly agricultural land. It has not been productive as the SS alongside it. Noble fir has been planted on a couple of sites and is generally growing well, following initial slow establishment.

It is also present in Northern Ireland. Planting of larch is currently prohibited in West coast FC forests, with substitute species being used on a site by site basis. Sites suitable for other conifer species and broadleaves are much more restricted

far in Argyll. Sycamore may offer some potential and other species in more sheltered spots.

Timber supply

causing extensive damage. Windblow clearance is still ongoing. A positive finansurplus has generally been achieved from all timber sales in the block.

Timber Quality

places, due to exposure. Nearly all LP has suffered from collapse and sweep, henis unlikely to yield much in the way of sawlogs or meet Production Forecast expectations. Degradation by Dothistroma is not currently a problem. No thhas been carried out due to exposure.

Stocking densities are reasonably good in most places. Exposure and soils limit broadleaved establishment and production of good tree form. Some more sheltered parts may be suitable, provided they are adequately protected against deer browsing.

3.32 Access

Timber transport

Timber mostly goes to Campbeltown where it is shipped to other Scottish ports or to Northern Ireland. Forest road investment has been considerable since 1998, to access areas of windblow. Much of the final road network is now in place. This has included a link between the B842 and the east coast minor public road. Several adjoining private woodland owners have requested links onto this network, including Knockstaplebeg, Glenmucklach and Feochaig.

3.33 LISS Potential

Few areas are suitable for thinning due to exposure. Existing and new native woodland areas will be managed either as Minimum Intervention areas or Natural Reserves, unless commercial hardwood production is possible.

3.34 Current and potential markets

Hardwood timber

The majority of hardwood timber is only suitable for the wood fuel market due to form. No hardwood timber is currently felled for commercial use. Mature timber is restricted to Glen Mucklach.

Timber in construction

Markets for spruce and small quantities of minor conifer species are located outwith WAFD. There is a small sawmill at Auchencorvie which may take small quantities of larch. No specialist markets have been established. Large diameter material is more difficult to sell.


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3.4 Landscape and landuse

Nearly all the block is covered by the Mull of Kintyre Area of Great Landscape Value.

ent

SNH’s Landscape Character Assessment (Landscape Assessment of Argyll and

The description is reasonably accurate for the plan area. Craggy outcrops are rare,

s

The most sensitive visual areas are defined within the FD’s Landscape and Amenity

Improving landscape quality is of particular importance along the main tourist rest

s

3.4.1 Landscape character and value

Landscape

This designation allows local authorities to safeguard areas of local or regional landscape importance from inappropriate developments through their developmplanning system. These areas are largely viewed from the public roads and from the ferry routes.

the Firth of Clyde, Review No. 78, 1996) puts nearly all of the area within the ‘Upland Forest Moor Mosaic’ landscape type. Its key characteristics include: Upland plateau with rounded ridges, craggy outcrops and an irregular slope profile.

Winding narrow glens and wider river valleys.

Extensive, large-scale mosaic of forestry plantations and small areas of open moorland.

No field boundaries.

Very few buildings; occasional isolated dwellings on edges of moor.

Little access, roads typically follow shorelines.

Derelict, isolated cottages and farm buildings.

however, and the slope profile more even. The forest borders on Conie Glen to the west, which lies within the ‘Rocky mosaic’ landscape type, noted for its relatively small-scale landscape with a diverse mix of colours, textures, isolated farm buildingand field enclosures. The westernmost part of the forest falls within this area.

Strategic Planning Zone. This covers the visible sections from the public roads only.

3.4.2 Visibility

Landscape Quality

routes. The Mull of Kintyre is a popular tourist destination, but views of the fofrom the B842 are relatively minor. The east coast route is little used and its vieware mainly out to sea.

3.4.3 Neighbouring landuse

Farmland borders on much of the plan area. This comprises a mixture of semi-improved and rough pasture, used for dairy, cattle and sheep. Private farming estates to the north comprise open moorland, used for sheep grazing. There are also a number of private conifer woodland owners. The Kildalloig Estate has various schemes for the benefit of Black grouse and native woodland to the north-east of the forest.

3.5 Social Factors

3.5.1 Recreation

Tourism

Tourism is important to the Kintyre economy. The Kintyre Way was built with this in mind, and there are plans to create an extension down the east coast route to Southend. Most tourist facilities are however, located in Campbeltown.

Making access easier

There are no formal recreation routes through the forest. The linkage between the B842 and the east coast public road was suggested as a link with access potential, but this has not been publicised and receives little if any public usage.

Recreation

There are no recreation facilities within the forest and no plans to introduce any. Beinn Ghuilean is seen as the focus for recreation provision south of Campbeltown. Arinascavagh croft house was formerly used as a bothy by the local scouts and cadets, but deterioration in its roof has rendered it unusable since the mid-1990’s.

3.5.2 Community

Community Engagement – Neighbours These comprise isolated dwellings, private estates, farmland and forestry neighbours. The Southend Community Council covers the area. Partnerships

There are no existing community partnerships associated with the forest.

Community Ownership and management


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No community interests have arisen to date.

3.5.3 Heritage Cultural Heritage There are no scheduled sites in the plan area. There are a number of unscheduled sites in the plan area. The main monument types include; buildings and crofts, sheepfolds, shielings, enclosures, old tracks, turf dykes and an aircraft crash site. The settings of a prehistoric cairn and cup-marked rock on a low hill at the top of Glen Mucklach were improved through increased open space and some surrounding species diversity at restocking. Plans are being made to make Arinascavagh croft house safe by the removal of its deteriorating roof. An old timber rotating summer house exists above the junction of Glen Mucklach and Glen Kerran, and is an unusual feature. It is associated with a track up to it from the south along Glen Kerran. A number of archaeological sites in around the top of Glen Mucklach were apparently destroyed at new planting. Searches failed to identify any of the sites when the areas were cleared of windblow and restocked.

Policy - Archaeological features will be protected in accordance with the Forestry Commission’s Archaeological Guidelines, and UK Forest Standard guideline ‘Forests and the Historic Environment’. Standard prescriptions from the West of Scotland Archaeology Service include; leaving 5 meters either side of walls and linear features unplanted and 20 meter buffers around localized sites. Breaches in linear features will be kept to an absolute minimum. Other buffer zone widths are defined for each monument on the conservation plan and against the overlay key.

3.6 Statutory requirements and key external policies

The following official designations exist in the plan area:- Wayleaves – lines to various private dwellings. Ancient woodland sites. Area of Great Landscape Value (AGLV). Balnabraid Glen SSSI (part).


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4.0 Analysis and Concepts for each site factor

4.1 Analysis

4.1.1 Physical site factors

4.1.1.1 Geology, soils and landform

The underlying geology leads to increased acidification of the overlying deposits. It

Species choice is limited by soils and exposure, particularly on the Blanket bogs.

some

en

s

on

Under the Water Framework Directive, the assessment for the Kerran Water was

de

Adherence to the Forests and Water guidelines is essential where private water robust

of

also contributes slightly improved fertility to Blanket bogs when compared with bogs in some other parts of the country, which has led to slightly improved yield classes over what might be expected through crop growth modelling. Peat depths are often fairly shallow, but with some very stony sub-soil below in places that has caused problems when utilised for planting mounds.

Broadleaves are generally restricted to lower or well-drained areas. However, planted broadleaves at Dalbuie House have not faired well and there have beenfailures around the research experiment. Tree crops on gleyed soils have proved more susceptible to wind damage due to the lower binding strength of the soil whcompared with deep peats. The landform may also have contributed to the extent of the gale damage of 1998, funnelling the wind along the glens, particularly west to east. Landform was analyzed and a design concept created in the previous plan. UKWAS policy on coupe size reduction and increased requirement for smaller coupein association with public access routes has resulted in a variety of coupe sizes within the forest. Larger scale landform over the plateau areas requires larger coupes to fit the scale. Varying use of species objectives for each coupe will help enhance coupe shapes that reflect the landform. Matching of shapes to landform is part of the overall design objectives under landscape improvements. Growth patterns alsodictate coupe shape, although this may not always reflect landform. Heather regrowth is occurring but so far hasn’t had a significant impact on second rotaticrop growth.

4.1.1.2 Water

classed as ‘poor’, with ‘good’ status achievable by 2026 following restructuring. However, most of the catchment has now been felled and replanted, adopting wiriparian buffers and areas for native woodland expansion built in, so its status may already have improved significantly.

supplies utilize forest burns for water. There are still opportunities to develop riparian corridors when first rotation felling has yet to take place. These will contribute to habitat network development (an FDP objective), and protection

burns feeding private water supplies. Owing to the incomplete record of private water supplies on the FC estate, these will be progressively identified prior to the commencement of operations and information added to the district’s GIS dataset covering water supplies. There are a number within the plan area, typically serving isolated farms and dwellings.

4.1.1.3 Climate

Windiness is the main climatic factor affecting the forest. Critical decisions on when and whether to thin, and whether stands can be converted to continuous cover are all dependent on accurate assessment of windthrow risk. DAMS is the best available method of assessment to assess risk, using maximum scores to guide thinning and timing of felling decisions. There are also amenity reasons for encouraging thinning in parts of the forest in the public view. Windblow has been extensive to date, compromising efforts to restructure the forest. Wind weak species will be largely unsuitable throughout much of the forest area. The more sheltered parts of the forest suffered similar amounts of wind damage as the rest in the 1998 gale. Development of robust habitat networks is seen as part of the strategy for developing resilience against the effects of Climate Change. Glen Kerran and Glen Mucklach are developing as an internal native woodland network, but there is no corresponding riparian network to link with downstream. A link from the top of Glen Mucklach to the native woodland on the Pennygowan acquisition will be possible at the next rotation, although the Pennygowan native woodland is itself isolated within Conie Glen.

Open habitat networks surround most of the forest blocks. Arinarach Hill and the lost land above Glen Muril contribute to the wider open habitat network. The maritime slopes and cliffs, plus native woodland development above at Ru Stafnish link with the coastal section of the Balnabraid Glen SSSI.

Apart from the proposed windfarm development, no other renewables projects have been identified to date.

4.1.2 Biodiversity and environmental designations

Designated Sites Balnabraid Glen SSSI includes 3.8ha of FC ownership, containing 1.8ha of Sitka spruce planted in 1982 and the remainder a mixture of predominantly birch woodland and open space. The area also contains a reported aircraft crash site. In the previous plan, a felling date of 2034 was anticipated. Revised improved yield classes now allow felling as early as 2017 over much of the area, with the remainder to be felled in 2024. Native woodland by natural regeneration is the prescribed future outcome for the designated


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area. The current management agreement will expire before harvesting is due to commence, but will need to be included under the consents in the subsequent plan. Birds

Black grouse lek within the forest and on adjoining moorland. They have made significant use of young restocks, but this is likely to decrease as restocks become established. Riparian areas may continue to be used where native woodland regeneration is slow to establish.

Deer Control Deer numbers are under control. Increased planting of minor species and broadleaves will require monitoring for damage through the SDA process. Deer fencing is not a preferred option due to expense. Restock sites will be prioritised for deer control, along with investment in quad tracks for access and carcass extraction. Roe deer are thought to be present on the new acquisition at Pennygowan. There is a preference for deer fencing this site if vulnerable species are planted. There are however issues between deer fencing and Black grouse, which probably use the area.

Native Woodland Native woodland expansion is focused on Glen Mucklach and Glen Kerran. Timescales for expansion into the upper reaches of both glens will be longer due to lack of seed sources. These areas are not easily accessible for deer control. Ru Stafnish native woodland areas will be further enhanced when felling of conifers above the powerline takes place. Control of conifer regeneration will be undertaken within the existing regeneration area and conifer retentions removed. Proposals for native woodland expansion above Balnabraid Glen are carried forward from the previous plan. The larch interface between this area and spruce on the plateau above has been replaced with Scots pine.

Open habitats Apart from NVC survey of parts of the northern edge of the block, no open habitats survey has been undertaken. The value of open rank heather around the radio masts above Feochaig is unknown, but will be retained and extended to link up isolated pockets to the south by removal of blown LP. Open moorland at Arinarach Hill can be expanded where poorer growth of spruce currently exists. Both have value for Black grouse.

Invasive species There are no plans to tackle gorse growing around Dalbuie House.

Deadwood Deadwood resource will be focused on the existing native woodland areas, and decayed and unrecoverable windblown areas, including areas of collapsed LP. The deadwood network will also expand as the core native woodland network expands and matures.

4.1.3 The existing forest

4.1.3.1 Age class, species and yield class

There are social, landscape and environmental reasons for increasing diversity, along with possible benefits for countering possible effects of climate change. Differences in growth rates give some flexibility in timings of felling and restructuring. The area has been considerably affected by the two gales, in 1998/9 and 2011/12, which has compromised the restructuring process. However, the process of clearing the windblow has been undertaken over a number of years, resulting in a range of planting dates replacing the former even-aged first rotation crop. The lower areas are suited to some species diversification, but options are limited on the higher ground and wetter, peaty soils. To date, species choice has not been significantly limited by deer management within the forest. There is a healthy roe deer population however it has been possible to restock with firs and there are patches of regeneration. There has been little broadleaved planting, however natural regeneration has taken place on various sites where allowed by deer browsing. Chalara fraxinea currently prevents the planting of Ash. No cases have been found in Kintyre to date. Dothistroma will prevent the planting of some pines for the foreseeable future. Use of all provenances of Lodgepole pine except Alaskan (ALP) is consequently restricted. ALP will be used in self-thinning mixture with SS on low fertility deep peat sites to improve yield. The introduction of Macedonian pine may offer an alternative if available, as it is less affected by Dothistroma, pine blister and other fungal pathogens. Dothistroma identified at Cockalane will be cleared as part of a Phase 1 coupe, although there may be some difficulty dealing with existing and subsequent regeneration amongst severely blown areas. The economics of working this area are also likely to be negative. Larch planting is now prohibited, given the spread of Phytophthora ramorum. Minor conifer species are only likely to be suited to a very small percentage of sites. Western hemlock may be suitable, provided that seeding does not pose a risk to other environmental values.


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Mounding and better drainage in the second rotation should help achieve improved yield classes. Sitka spruce will remain the preferred species choice for commercial forestry. It remains the only suitable species over much of the forest area.

4.1.3.2 Access

The road network has received considerable investment over the last 10 years to provide access to windblown coupes. Only one significant length of forest road is now needed. Access onto the B842 at Pennygowan avoids the need for any timber traffic to use Consultation routes or restricted routes. The section of minor public road at Ru Stafnish is an agreed consultation route, which was used for timber transport when the area east of the road was harvested. The remaining areas of timber below the road are of no economic value, so it is unlikely that any timber will be removed from the site when what remains is felled. Links onto the FC road network have been requested by the managers of several adjoining private woodlands. Proposed routes for linkages have been discussed. Two linkages to Knockstaplebeg may be required; both adjacent to the existing FC road network, so no tree felling will be required. Access to the Feochaig plantation is to be taken at the north-eastern tip, again adjacent to the FC road. Access to Glenmucklach Forest will cross a site restocked in 2006. Indicative routes are shown on the roads approval map. The right of access up Glen Kerran from Glenkerran Farm is unlikely to be used and is only suitable for pedestrian access beyond Glenmucklach farm steadings. There is a wireless transmitter mast station above Feochaig has its own tarmaced road access from Feochaig steadings. No issues regarding access to it have been reported. Access for deer control is reasonable across the whole forest area. This has been improving with the ongoing road building program. Access to the new acquisition at Pennygowan will be required in order to bring in cultivation machinery. No access from the FC side currently exists. Access through the farm may be a possibility. Future access for timber harvesting will require a forest road off the existing FC road network. An indicative route is shown on the roading map, the route chosen being deliberately kept on the low side to minimise visual impact from the B842. Quad access for deer control and plant layout already exists to the edge of the acquisition, but these routes are not suitable for heavy machinery.

4.1.3.3 LISS Potential DAMS scores suggest opportunities for thinning are very limited and hence potential for LISS restricted to non-intervention methods or to the most sheltered of sites. Any potential is now restricted to second rotation crops. Native woodland areas will typically be managed on a Minimum Intervention basis and as Natural Reserves

where there conservation values merit this. Badly blown, decaying and regenerating stands of LP will also contribute to the area of LISS.

4.1.3.4 Current and potential markets Markets are mainly located off the Kintyre peninsula. Woodfuel initiatives may provide greater future demand for small roundwood, particularly for low value pine and larch crops. Forecast volume for LP is likely to be unreliable and overestimated due to windblow, decay and poor form. Phytophthora ramorum may become a problem in the future. Infected stands of larch would have to be cleared following issue of a Statutory Plant Health Notice. Should Phytophthora ramorum be found, then timber will have to go to approved sawmills for processing. Felling of larch within a defined 10Km buffer zone would be restricted to the period 1st June – 16th October. Currently there is very little larch in the forest, so no major issues are anticipated. 4.1.3.5 Portfolio Analysis

Portfolio Analysis is a recently developed national tool used to assess the relative values of different aspects of the each forest by means of a scoring system. Combined scores for each forest allow comparison of relative importance across the whole estate and highlight strengths and weaknesses at an individual forest level. Scores suggest current economic, social and environmental benefits are moderate for the forest area. Current cost effectiveness is moderate and there are some future potential benefits and effectiveness to be gained. Developments such as the proposed windfarm, improved access and use of more productive species (SS replacing LP) are examples of changes bringing increased positive benefits.

4.1.4 Landscape and landuse

4.1.4.1 Landscape character and value The Council’s AGLV designation for the Mull of Kintyre is only likely to affect those parts of the forest that are visible from public roads. However, a more distant, more extensive view of the forest can be obtained from the minor road to the Mull of Kintyre lighthouse, but only for a short section and without places to park. In any case, the principal view is out towards Sanda. Views from the ferries, particularly to Northern Ireland, see more than the public roads, but again intervening coastal sections and seascapes will provide the main focus. SNH’s Landscape Character Assessment


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The suggested specific landscape guidelines for the ‘Upland Forest-Moor mosaic’ that are pertinent to the plan area are as follows:- Identify and conserve contrasts in landscape pattern between large-scale mosaic of

moorland and conifer plantations and more diverse, small-scale landscape on the fringes of the moorland. There is scope for more broadleaved woodland planting in these areas to create a more distinctive, diverse transition.

Identify areas with relatively rich ecological interest, such as wet flushes, loch margins or upland pastures and design conifer plantations to create and maintain viable wildlife corridors.

Give special consideration to views from roads in designing form, structure and phasing of conifer plantations.

This is a large-scale landscape, with relatively few distinctive features, so it is particularly important to conserve the setting of small lochs, striking rocky outcrops and attractive groups of buildings.

There are opportunities for the sensitive conservation of some derelict traditional buildings.

The landform is generally large-scale and is able to accommodate large-sized coupes. Smaller scale coupes on the edges are appropriate. Restructuring in largely well bedded in to the forest design, although some further benefits need to be gained at the next rotation where timescales have been compromised by windblow. The gullied watercourses provide the principal framework for coupe boundaries. These provide a framework for wildlife habitat corridors. The aesthetic qualities of views from the minor public roads are currently degraded by windblown LP. The plan makes provision for tackling these, but funding may be an issue. There are no striking distinctive features in the forest, but the settings of most archaeological features have been improved after felling of first rotation crops. Funds to conserve existing derelict buildings are currently not available and there is no identifiable demand for this at present.

Specific guidelines for the ‘Rocky Mosaic’ landscape type that might apply to the western end of the block are:-

Restrict afforestation to the outer inland edges, to conserve the characteristic diverse, small-scale landscape pattern and retain the strong transitions in scale between the landscape inland and that of the coast.

Identify and conserve the landscape setting of important archaeological sites.

Restore broken stone walls using local materials and techniques.

The ‘Upland Forest-Moor mosaic’ landscape type prescriptions make reference to more broadleaved woodland planting on the fringes to create a more distinctive, diverse transition. Taken in conjunction with the desired small-scale landscape pattern of the ‘Rocky Mosaic’ landscape type, some further increase in broadleaves along the lower western edges is desirable. This will improve the transition from

open farmland and scattered fragments of riparian woodland to the blanket conifer plantation above. The Pennygowan acquisition appears at least in part to fall within the Rocky Mosaic landscape type, so introducing broadleaves into the lower part of this area is appropriate. The more diffuse open broadleaved woodland west of Dalbuie House is also appropriate, even if it is the result of crop failures, as it might otherwise intrude more significantly into the open flow of the glen. Within the FC owned section of the glen there are no old stone walls or important archaeological sites.

4.1.4.2 Visibility Much of the area is not visible from public roads, viewpoints or settlements. The parts that are visible are highlighted in the FD’s Landscape and Amenity Strategic Planning Zone. These areas are targeted for species diversification, where soils permit. Development of broadleaved woodland at Ru Stafnish is currently compromised by conifer regeneration and retained stands of poor quality larch, LP and Western hemlock. The regeneration will be removed in 2015. Funding will need to be found to remove the retained conifer groups. This may become more important if the Kintyre Way is extended down this coastal route.

4.1.4.3 Neighbouring landuse

Private woodlands border on the forest edges in various places. Discussions with the former managers of Knockstaplebeg plantation suggested that timing of felling might create an adjacency issue. Three adjoining coupes within the FC Dalbuie have been felled, two being restocked in 2005 and 2012, whilst the third is currently awaiting restocking. A felling licence application has been submitted by the new managers to fell the whole block, but the Conservancy response to date has been to suggest that it should be phased, which would alleviate some of the adjacency concerns.

4.1.5 Social Factors

4.1.5.1 Recreation

No new recreation facilities are planned. There is little recreational potential within the block. The timber haul route through the block still offers some potential, particularly for cycling.

4.1.5.2 Community

There is no community involvement in the area at present.

4.1.5.3 Heritage


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A number of unscheduled archaeological sites exist in the forest, plus potential for new discoveries. The settings of identified sites will be improved through increased open space and diversification of tree species around the site where conditions permit. Access rides or tracks detailed at Work Plan level may assist in future public access. The district’s Cultural Heritage Strategy details working methods around archaeological sites, which is sufficient for all sites within the plan. No sites currently have any interpretation associated with them. The district’s heritage records have been consulted, which include data from searches of the RCAHMS inventories, WOSaS online data and NMRS. Old one-inch Ordnance Survey maps have also been checked for sites.

4.1.6 Statutory requirements and key external policies Ancient Woodland sites are localised to a few riparian gullies or streamsides. Full PAWS restoration is a national policy and achievable on all sites in the plan area. Remaining inaccessible conifer groups are likely to be dealt with by killing the trees standing.

Powerline corridors are routinely widened to 20m either side of the lines after harvesting. Approval for felling the at risk lines at Feochaig is included in this plan.

An agreed management plan with SNH is in place for the Balnabraid Glen SSSI. Felling has been brought forward from the last plan (2034), with two coupes removing conifers by 2024. The expansion area for native woodland above the SSSI remains in the design.

4.2 Plan Concepts (See Concept Map)

4.2.1 Physical site factors

4.2.1.1 Geology, soils and landform

Limited soils data in some areas requires a more flexible approach to species specification in the plan. There is a presumption against planting open hill ground where Blanket Bog is present or peat depths greater than 45cm. Areas of poor growth on Blanket bogs will generally not be restocked. No application of fertiliser or heather treatment is planned, with most second rotation crops achieving satisfactory growth.

Coupe shapes reflect landform where possible and use existing open gullied riparian corridors as coupe boundaries. Where growth patterns determine coupe shapes, this will be accepted provided there are no landscape sensitivities involved. (Strategic Plan Key theme and specific action – Healthy; we will seek to conserve carbon in soils in the large areas of deep peat through restoration projects in Kintyre).

4.2.1.2 Water

Enhancement of riparian corridors will have benefits for water users, and woodland and open habitat networks. Key riparian corridors and water bodies will be given wider buffers (15 - 30m), including watercourses identified by SEPA as at risk and those contributing to habitat networks. Detailed survey for private water supplies will be undertaken as part of the site Work Plan arrangements. Liaison with private water supply owners and West of Scotland Water will be entered into if operations are likely to affect them. All operations will conform to the Forests and Water guidelines.

4.2.1.3 Climate

Species choice will be largely restricted to the more windfirm species. Coupe structure follows windfirm boundaries where possible to alleviate windblow risk. Mounding rather than ploughing will be preferred for cultivation, to minimize runoff and erosion risk. This will also apply to new planting at Pennygowan. Creation and strengthening of open and native woodland habitat corridors will benefit species associated with each. Standard open coupe buffers will apply, except where broadleaves or permanent woodland cover is present. No proposals are included in relation to the potential windfarm development in the forest as this is still awaiting a grid connection slot confirmation. (Strategic Plan Key theme and specific action – Healthy; we will continue to consider the effects of climate change when fitting the right species to the right site. We will seek the latest evidence to underpin our management choices). (Strategic Plan Key theme and commitment – Productive; we aim to realise the estate renewable energy potential whilst achieving a reasonable balance with other objectives). (Strategic Plan Key theme and specific action – Good value; we will increase the amount of income from sources other than timber, including renewables, minerals and other land management activities).

4.2.2 Biodiversity and environmental designations


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The management plan for Balnabraid Glenn SSSI will be implemented. Deer control on FC property, which is a consented activity under the agreement, will be maintained as there are possible benefits to the woodland on adjoining property. Full PAWS restoration is an FD policy. Native woodland networks will benefit from this. PAWS areas and existing native woodlands form a basis for creating a native woodland habitat network. Natural regeneration is the preferred method of establishment of such sites. Deer fencing may be employed for broadleaved planting and also where natural regeneration is affected by deer browsing. Protection of regeneration on PAWS and non-PAWS sites and subsequent monitoring will be given a higher priority. Deer control on non-fenced sites containing vulnerable crops will be prioritised. Timings of operations and buffer zones will follow specified guidance for key species. Black grouse will continue to benefit from new and young restock sites, which have proved popular to date. (Strategic Plan Key theme and specific action – Healthy; we will deliver our Deer Management Plans for each of the Deer Management Units in the district). (Strategic Plan Key theme and commitment – Cared for; we will restore around 85% of areas on Ancient Woodland sites to largely native species. The remaining areas will be enhanced through management; we aim to increase broadleaved tree cover from 8% to 20%; we will maintain the best open and native woodland habitats in good ecological condition; we will continue to support lek counts of Black grouse, incorporating their needs into key forest plans).

4.2.3 The existing forest

4.2.3.1 Age class, species and yield class

Sitka spruce will be the preferred commercial conifer. Alaskan Lodgepole pine will be used in self-thinning mixture with SS where nutrient issues are suspected, currently identified as on Kerran Hill and above Glen Muril. Other provenances of LP will not be planted or pines susceptible to Dothistroma. Dothistroma infected pine in Cockalane will be felled in Phase 1. Larch will be substituted with other species, so long as Phytophthora ramorum is an issue. Ash will not be planted owing to the recent outbreak of Chalara fraxinea (Ash dieback). (Strategic Plan Key theme and specific actions – Healthy; current evidence suggest West Argyll will remain a core spruce-growing region, which we will balance with our moves to increase locally suitable native species and other suitable conifers to increase forest diversity; we will implement mitigation strategies for current tree disease threats).

Deforestation is not favoured under the Climate Change agenda. Where there is clear justification for restoring Blanket bog on poor/failed sites, premature felling constituting deforestation will be considered, subject to funding. Deforestation at full rotation may be considered where the advantages of restoration of priority habitat outweighs any gain from future woodland, particularly where yields are likely to be low and a positive carbon balance would not be achieved by replanting. In addition, there may be hydrological considerations where it will be preferable not to restock due to negative impacts on adjoining Blanket bog or wetland habitats. In these cases, an open buffer will be established. Application of fertiliser is not currently envisaged, but is under review.

4.2.3.2 Access Phased construction of a new road will be required to access forest above Glen Muril and Arinarach Hill, with Phase 1 and 2 coupes planned. Restock sites will be the primary target for new ranger tracks. The Pennygowan access will be the only timber egress point for the forest. Links onto the FC road network from neighbouring forests will be accepted, subject to acceptable agreements being achieved. (Strategic Plan Key theme and specific action – Productive; we shall construct at least 75Km of new forest roads in the next 3 years to improve access).

4.2.3.3 LISS Potential There is little scope for thinning in the forest. Steep and difficult working sites are generally excluded. At present, no thinning is undertaken. Opportunities to thin limited areas of second rotation crops will be considered in more sheltered areas. Other types of LISS/CCF, including one Natural Reserve (Glen Mucklach native woodland) and Minimum Intervention areas have been identified in the plan. (Strategic Plan Key theme and specific action – we will review where CCF can be practised. LISS will be concentrated in native woodland areas).

4.2.3.4 Current and potential markets Main timber markets are likely to remain off the Kintyre peninsula. Opportunities may arise to work with local wood fuel markets and suppliers. (Strategic Plan Key theme and specific action – Productive; we shall bring 500Km3/annum of timber to the market, adjusting this as necessary with the development of plant health issues and windblow; we intend to manage at least one quarter of our expanding broadleaved woodlands to produce quality hardwoods and Woodfuel).


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4.2.4 Landscape and landuse

4.2.4.1 Landscape character and value

The design includes species variation between coupes in landscape sensitive areas. This is important in order to define the coupe shapes in the landscape, particularly where landform is fairly amorphous. Links with surrounding often diverse scenery through the creation and strengthening of habitat linkages will help strengthen the unity of the landscape. Further restructuring is introduced to deal with areas of second rotation age uniformity resulting from the 1998 gale windblow clearance. The settings of important archaeological sites are enhanced though increased use of open space and diverse species choice. New planting proposals for land at Pennygowan Farm and possibly a second adjoining area will be handled my amendment to this plan, owing to the timescales required to collect al the supporting survey information to advise the EIA determination. (Strategic Plan Key theme and commitment – Productive; we will support the Scottish Government’s woodland expansion policy).

4.2.4.2 Visibility Enhancement of forest edges will have various benefits, either for amenity, landscape or wildlife, or a combination of these. Feathering of edges will be anticipated as best practice, rather than represented at design plan level. Increased use of broadleaves around lower edges will assist with this. Specific viewpoints and focal points in the landscape have been identified for more detailed assessment and design. Diversifying species choice and coupe size reduction are options used in the plan.

4.2.4.3 Neighbouring landuse

The need for deer fencing will be reviewed in discussion with neighbours when fences are renewed. Adjacency issues will be discussed and agreed in advance of felling plan approval. Approaches from neighbours to share or link access for timber haulage will be viewed favourably. The Forests and Water guidelines will be adhered to when working upstream of water supplies and where fishing interest are concerned. Increased buffers will be adopted on sensitive watercourses.

4.2.5 Social Factors

4.2.5.1 Recreation No recreation facilities are planned. Current proposals to improve the area around Ru Stafnish will benefit the proposed Kintyre Way extension. (Strategic Plan Key theme and specific action – Productive; we shall continue to remain involved in the Argyll Forest Tourism Initiative; Accessible – we will refocus our investment in recreation facilities to improve the quality of sites with higher footfall).

4.2.5.2 Community

No major drivers. (Strategic Plan Key theme and commitment – Treasured; we want to encourage local people to get involved with using and managing the local estate woodlands, so we will actively engage with local communities and be open to work in partnership).

4.2.5.3 Heritage

Settings have been improved where possible through species diversification and increase in open space. Management prescriptions contained in SAM plans for all five monuments will be followed. Best practice is contained in the district’s Cultural Heritage Strategy and UKFS guide ‘Forest and the Historic Environment’. (Strategic Plan Key theme and specific action – Cared for; we will continue to undertake conservation management, condition monitoring and archaeological recording at key heritage sites; we will continue to work with stakeholders to develop, share and promote best practice historic environment conservation management).

4.2.6 Statutory and legal requirements and key external policies

Restoration of all Ancient Woodland sites is an FCS policy. The FD will adopt a constructive approach to requests from SSE for resilience felling alongside wayleaves. The agreed management plan for the Balnabraid Glen SSSI will be implemented.


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Planning

Analysis of Opportunities and Constraints Table

Factor Opportunities Constraints Concept development Water quality

Forest restructuring can help protect water quality. Adoption of LISS management will reduce harvesting impacts. Use of increased open and native woodland buffers will benefit watercourses.

Very limited opportunities for LISS and no thinning planned. Scope for using broadleaves is limited by soils.

Creation of riparian habitat corridors and expanding buffers around sensitive water features. Adherence to Forest and Water guidelines.

Ancient Woodland Sites

Forest redesign to protect sites. Use of LISS on sensitive sites.

Conifer regeneration. Inaccessible stands of mature conifer.

District policy is full restoration.

Species choice

Forest redesign to increase species diversity for landscape and conservation. Review species choice under the Climate Change agenda to make more resilient. Adjust future choices to take account of plant health issues.

Choice limited by soils, lack of soil map coverage in some areas, deer browsing, cost of deer fencing, exposure, markets/economic requirements and tree diseases restricting species choice.

Increase diversity where conditions permit. Focus on high landscape and amenity areas. Join up native woodland habitat networks where possible. Do not plant unsuitable pine species or provenances, ash or larch.

Coupe size

Forest redesign to bring more into line with UKWAS guidance.

Coupe size should fit scale of landscape first. Natural windfirm edges may not be present in first rotation crops. Coupe structure now well established in some areas but not always well fitted to the landscape.

Focus on smaller coupe size where associated with views. Fit size to scale elsewhere. Build in future windfirm boundaries to reduce coupe size in future rotations.

Thinning

Thinning has benefits for amenity and wildlife. DAMS scores suggest most of the forest is unsuitable for thinning.

Aim to thin second rotation crops in sheltered sites.

Key species

Forest redesign can enhance habitats for key species.

Cost to commercial forestry. Maintain existing habitats and enhance where suitable.

Roading New roading may increase recreation opportunities and provide better access for deer control. Shared access opportunities with neighbours.

Significant cost to introduce final road network. Ensure road and access proposals are fit for purpose and available for use to meet requirements of markets and restructuring. Work with neighbours requesting access onto FC road network.

Open land Existing open land is valuable for deer control, birds and landscape/amenity.

Increasing open space is a cost to commercial forestry. Woodland expansion on open land may be sensitive from a public perspective and may have impacts on open habitats and species.

Maintain and enhance areas of existing open space, except where there is clear justification for change.

Low YC crops and low stocking

Differences in growth rate provide more flexibility to restructure the forest. Minor conifer species add diversity and improve robustness of the forest against climate change. Opportunities to restore more valuable open habitats.

Deforestation goes against climate change agenda. Costly to fell and replant poorly stocked areas. Small areas are difficult to manage commercially. Lower commercial returns for minor species, including increased protection costs. Low yield class crops are carbon negative on Blanket bogs.

Low yield class crops on Blanket bogs will be reassessed and a carbon positive strategy outcome assigned prior to harvesting or at FDP review. Use of SS/LP self-thinning mixtures will be employed on nutrient deficient sites.


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Planning

5.0 Management Proposals

5.1 Forest stand management (see map)

5.1.1 Commercial areas

Clearfelling Restructuring is well progressed in the forest, although further restructuring is needed in some central areas that were subject to extensive windblow. Here there is a uniformity of age class over a sizeable area. Windblow clearance will continue for several more years and is prioritised in the felling plan. Further windblow is likely in the remaining mature crops. Dothistroma and collapse of South Coastal LP are known factors which affect the economics of working such coupes. Phytophthora ramorum may also become a problem and result in areas of larch having to be cleared quickly. However, the area of larch is minimal. Timing of felling will be to some extent influenced by the rate of construction of the one new road required (3.3Km). While there is a peak of felling in Phase 1, this is justified by the advanced age of the crops and also DAMS scores and does not exceed 25% of the entire felling area. A sustainable flow of timber is desirable and achievable. Stacking for boats may also involve larger accumulations of timber at roadside, requiring increased stacking facilities. Resilience felling along the powerlines at Ru Stafnish is built into the felling plan. Timber is marketed via Standing Sales.

Felling Areas Analysis (Conifers)

PHASE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8+ LISS Open SUM AREA 248.5 92.7 79.8 84.0 39.8 165.6 335.7 365.0 105.9 395.0 1912.0

% 13 5 4 4 2 9 18 19 5 21 100

No more than 25% shall be felled in any 5 - year period (See UKWAS 3.4.2).

Felling and thinning volumes (Conifers)

Average Annual Felling volumes by

phase

Clearfelling (Km3)

Thinning (Km3)

2014-2016 17.7 Nil 2017-2021 10.9 Nil 2022-2026 9.7 Nil 2027-2031 6.2 Nil

Forest Operations Area Statements:-

Productive Forest Area (Phase 1 felling)

FELLING COUPE AREA (HA) RESTOCK AREA (HA)

Conifer = 248.5 Conifer = 193.6

Open space = 30.5 Open space = 53.1

Broadleaves by natural regeneration (net area) = 15.6

Broadleaves to be felled = 0 Broadleaves by planting (net area) = 16.7

Broadleaves (not to be felled but within coupe area) = 1.1

Existing Broadleaves = 1.1

TOTAL = 280.1 TOTAL = 280.1

Productive Forest Area (Phase 2 felling)

FELLING COUPE AREA (HA) RESTOCK AREA (HA)

Conifer = 92.7 Conifer = 81.3

Open space = 5.9 Open space = 17.3

Broadleaves by natural regeneration (net area) = 0

Broadleaves to be felled = 0 Broadleaves by planting (net area) = 0

Broadleaves (not to be felled but within coupe area) = 0

Existing Broadleaves = 0

TOTAL = 98.6 TOTAL = 98.6

New planting, Pennygowan - outline only Archaeological, habitat, ornithological and soil surveys will be commissioned to advise the design and the associated EIA determination enquiry. Completion of missives is not anticipated before 31st December 2013.

PHASE 1 (Ha)

Conifer = 5.0

Open space = 0.5

Existing broadleaves = 3.0

Broadleaves by planting = 11.1

TOTAL = 19.6


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Conifers will be planted to achieve a minimum stocking density of 2500/ha. Broadleaves will be established through natural regeneration to achieve a minimum stocking of 1650/ha over a 10 to 15 year period, and 2500/ha where planted. Assessment of regeneration areas in this plan will be made 5 years after felling. Full stocking will be achieved by year 15, planting when necessary to supplement natural regeneration. Discontinuous mounding will be the preferred method of cultivation.

Thinning There are currently no plans to thin any part of the forest due to exposure. Continuous cover forestry

Some native woodland areas, once established, may be suitable. Long-term Retentions

No Long-term retentions have been identified in first rotation crops. Historic wind damage throughout the forest mitigates against use of this management type. Opportunities will be reassessed in second rotation crops as they mature.

5.1.2 Non-commercial areas

Natural Reserves

Glen Mucklach native woodland is classed as a Natural Reserve. There is little of biodiversity value in the existing coniferous woodlands, including blown areas of LP, hence none are designated as natural reserves.

Minimum Intervention Areas

These are currently represented by a variety of woodland structural types, where there is benefit in retaining the stands for diversity and where the likelyhood of achieving an economic crop is low. These areas will be expected to contain a high proportion of native woodland by natural regeneration in the future. Some areas of blown or checked LP are allocated to Minimum Intervention areas and currently most are regenerating with LP.

Current Area Summary – Low Impact Systems (Conifers)

TYPE AREA (HA) % Continuous Cover Areas 0 0 Natural Reserves 24.1 1.3 Minimum Intervention Areas 164.6 8.6 Long Term Retentions 3.9 -

5.2 Future habitats and species (see map)

Species rationale Conifer species choice is orientated towards SS in low sensitivity areas as the main commercial species that is suitable on most sites. SS is likely to outperform LP on most sites. Most pines can not be planted due to Dothistroma. Alaskan LP will be used in self-thinning mixtures with SS on low nutrient sites. Sitka spruce will therefore increase as Lodgepole pine is reduced by self-thinning. Larch was used for texture, contrast and amenity, but is currently prohibited due to Phytophthora ramorum. No account is largely taken of this in the plan, with ‘larch substitute’, a pseudonym for any other suitable species that might assist in achieving the same goals as larch, being used. This therefore maintains the design concept, although it is recognised that the benefits of using alternative conifer species will be less. Ash is also no longer available due to Ash Dieback disease, Chalara fraxinea. Mixed conifers previously referred to any minor conifer species including larch, but generally excluding SS, that are suitable for the site, giving some flexibility to foresters to choose on silvicultural grounds. This effectively now becomes mixed evergreen conifers, given larch is no longer available or, where landscape considerations are more significant, substituting larch with a suitable broadleaved species, such as birch or sycamore. European Silver fir may be used on brown gleys, where DF is unsuitable, although plant availability may require use of other firs. Where DF has been planted to date, it hasn’t performed particularly well. Other minor conifer species where specified are used in small amounts for amenity. Soils and exposure limit the choice of minor species. More prominent ridges and faces in the landscape are emphasized with mixtures. Species boundaries, roads, tracks and coupe boundaries should ideally not cut across these features, but skirt round them. The inner parts of much of the forest are generally not visible from the principal external viewpoints.

The figures below show an increase in the area of broadleaves, mainly due to native woodland area along Glen Mucklach and Glen Kerran expands. Internal open space increases with further roading and development of coupe buffers. Norway spruce area is increased to diversify productive conifer species. Lodgepole pine increases in area due to the use of self-thinning mixtures. Larch increases in theory, but the substitute species will comprise both conifer and broadleaved alternatives until the current ban on planting larch is lifted. Other minor conifer species, including mixed conifers, increase to benefit amenity and climate change agenda considerations. Sitka spruce area falls as a result of these changes.


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FDP Species Distribution

SPECIES 2003 2013 2099

AREA (ha)

% AREA (ha)

% AREA (ha)

%

Sitka spruce 1300.0 68 1275.3 66.7 893.2 46.7

Norway spruce - - 7.5 0.4 117.2 6.1

Lodgepole pine 92.3 4.8 91.4 4.8 106.1 5.6

Grand fir 4.8 0.3 4.8 0.3 2.1 0.1

Noble fir 0.5 - 8.5 0.4 2.4 0.1

Douglas fir 0.5 - 0.5 - 7.8 0.4

Mixed/other conifer 0.5 - 0.7 - 78.9 4.2

Larch (substitute*) 7.8 0.4 14.6 0.8 56.0* 2.9

Scots pine 0.4 - 0.4 - 0.6 -

Broadleaves 34.0 1.8 40.0 2.1 252.7 13.2

Felled 207.4 10.9 159.4 8.3 - -

Internal open space 170.8 8.9 215.9 11.3 302.0 15.8

Open hilltops 93.0 4.9 93.0 4.9 93.0 4.9

TOTALS 1912.0 100 1912.0 100 1912.0 100

SS is mostly the only conifer matched to the commercial objectives within the planned conifer areas (See UKWAS 3.3.2). Small areas of DF may qualify on suitable sites. A substitute species for larch will be used. Possible options include birch or sycamore. Open and broadleaved areas contribute more than the UKWAS target of 15% of the woodland area being managed with conservation and biodiversity objectives. Table III lists other woodland areas contributing to the area (See UKWAS 6.3.1). Species distribution will move towards the future goal in 2099 in one rotation for clearfell coupes, but much more slowly where LISS management is undertaken. However, most changes should be in place within 150 years.

Habitat networks The Future Forests and Habitats map identifies the main habitat networks, both open, native woodland and riparian. Buffer zones along main burnside corridors go beyond the Forest and Water guidelines, typically 20m for major riparian corridors, partly due to slope instability constraints. Native woodland can be expected to regenerate in lower riparian corridors. PAWS restoration will strengthen the native

woodland linkages. Native woodland habitat networks will also contribute to the deadwood resource, providing a deadwood habitat network as a consequence. Deadwood will routinely be identified at Work Plan stage, selection being based on available opportunities and with reference to deadwood management guidance. Deadwood resource mapping is not currently identified geospatially in the FD.

5.3 Restructuring

Restructuring has largely been achieved in one rotation, despite the original uniformity in age classes. One or two areas of more extensive former windblow will require further restructuring at the next rotation. Development of a balanced age structure will take several rotations (see section 5.5). No fallow management is currently planned within the forest. Excessive weed growth limits use of fallow or delayed restocking. The process of restructuring has a cost implication in terms of forgone revenue through not adopting economic rotation lengths.

5.4 Future management

Invasive species

There are no plans to deal with gorse above Dalbuie House or with LP seeding within restock sites.

Monitoring Monitoring of outputs within the plan area are handled in accordance with the district’s Monitoring Plan. Subjects are grouped under Key Themes from the Strategic Plan. Specific methodologies are detailed under separate guidance documents. Responsibilities for undertaking, recording and responding to the results of ongoing monitoring are also detailed in these documents. Any relevant to FDP delivery will be reviewed at the mid-term review stage.

5.5 Age structure

Age of Trees (Years)

Successional Stage Percentage of Forest over Year

2003 2013 2043

0 - 10 Establishment 18 40 18

11 - 20 Scrub & Early Thicket 11 19 11


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21 - 40 Thicket & Pole Stage 81 15 22

41 - 60 Mature High Forest 0 25 56

61+ Old Forest 0 1 4

TOTALS 100 100 100

The process of restructuring shall continue through successive rotations to achieve a minimum 2m height growth difference between adjacent coupes, based on a minimum of 7 years between felling dates, as per the UK Forestry Standard.

The development of old growth conifer woodland is limited by exposure. However, some poor grown stands of LP, longer rotations for pine, retained broadleaves and checked conifers will contribute area to this woodland type over the next 50 years. Mature High Forest is also restricted by exposure, but may increase as restructuring beds in. Improved yield classes may shorten rotation lengths in the future. A greater proportion of establishment stage crops have arisen from replanting of cleared windblow. This will need further restructuring at the next rotation.

5.6 PAWS restoration

All the areas on the NCCS inventory that are classed as ‘Ancient Woodland Sites’ or ‘Long-Established Semi-natural origin’ will be restored to native woodland in the future. All areas identified by the FD from the 1st Edition Ordnance Survey mapping will also be restored, unless subsequent survey demonstrates that they are not Ancient Woodland sites. Restoration is complete, apart from several clumps of mature conifer. Natural regeneration will be the preferred method of broadleaved establishment.

5.7 Deer Management

Deer browsing has not been problematic to date, and at this time, fencing is not required on site. Current policy requires rangers to prioritise new restock sites for deer control along with resources for the construction of quad tracks on these sites. The FD’s Environment team will monitor success of broadleaved regeneration and will liaise with ranger staff where issues arise due to browsing. An assessment will take places after 10 years, to establish whether natural regeneration is likely to deliver 20% cover when mature or semi-mature. Where it is considered cover may be less than 20% and the habitat type is appropriate, further planting will be undertaken where viable. Deer stalking will be the preferred method of deer control, in line with the FD’s Deer Management Strategy. Additional ranger tracks will be applied for separately, when needs are identified. Neighbouring estates will be consulted and agreement reached on march fence replacement.

5.8 Access

All roads will be built from material won from local borrow pits and small quarries. No quarries will exceed the threshold requiring an EIA determination. None of the proposed roads have any significant impact on the landscape or environmental sensitivities.

A total of 3.3Km of new roading is required in the first 5 years of the plan. This is represented by the Arinarach Hill spur (A). The total amount of associated additional felling not otherwise approved under the plan amounts to 7.7ha. No new roads are required in Phase 2. In addition to the above, ongoing upgrading of existing roading is required. No new access is currently proposed for the Pennygowan Farm acquisition. Two quad tracks currently access the edge of the site. Any change to the access requirements will be handled by plan amendment. Outline access to the adjoining private woodlands is shown on the Roads Approval Map. None of the roadlines have been surveyed in as yet and are indicative only, but are likely to be required within the next 5 years:- B – Lower access to Knockstaplebeg Forest– 20m C – Upper access to Knockstaplebeg Forest – 10m D – Access to Glenmucklach Forest – 0.45Km E – Access to Feochaig Forest – 10m

5.9 Critical success factors

In the first 10 years of the plan, the following outcomes are required:-

Restructuring – requires completion of felling (341.2ha) and restocking (307.2ha) programs (see section 5.1 Forest Operations area statements)

New planting (outline only at this stage) requires ha of new planting and ha of new native woodland by natural regeneration to be established. Timescales for the latter may extend beyond the period of the plan. Approval will be sought by amendment at a later stage.

Roading – construction of 3.3Km required to facilitate the first 5-years harvesting program and 7.7ha of associated felling not otherwise accounted for.

Timber production (13.5Km/annum) - requires completion of the felling program. Landscape design from key viewpoints - requires coupes to be felled as per the

Management Map and restocked as per the Future Species and Habitats Map to deliver planned landscape enhancements.


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Creation of habitat networks will be an ongoing process, beyond the next 10 years of the plan. Success depends on ongoing commitment to implementing the felling and restocking elements of the design.

Full PAWS restoration requires conifer removal, not replanting with conifers and control exotic regeneration to achieve satisfactory habitat restoration. Timescales for completion go well beyond the plan approval period.

(At present, there are no critical success factors associated with removal of trees affected by Dothistroma or Phythophthora ramorum or due to windblow). No critical success factors are included associated with the new acquisitions, which require further survey work to support a separate application for new planting.


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Appendix I: Forest Design Plan Consultation Record Statutory Consultee Date contacted Date response received Issue raised Forest District Response Argyll & Bute Council SNH Neighbours Date contacted Date response received Issue raised Forest District Response UPM Tilhill, Glenmucklach Forest and Glenramskill

13/11/2012 (by FCS)

FCS EIA determination of link road onto FC network FE felling below threshold for an amendment.

Scottish Woodlands Ltd, Feochaig Forest

Various Various Link road onto FC network – outline only Awaiting application for access point

Owners of Knockstaplebeg Forest

Only through FCS

Submission of felling plan - FCS said two coupes therefore two access points needed onto FE network - resuming application for link form previous managers (UPM Tilhill)

Awaiting application for two access points

Owners of Glenramskill Farm

Owners of Killdaloig Farm Owners of Sheanachie Owners of Glenhervie Owners of Benton Owners of Kildavie Owners of Keranbeg Owners of Glenmucklach Owners of Knockstaple Owners of Knocnaha Owners of Uigle Owners of Blackhill Owners of Oatfield Owners of Pennygowan Farm

Owners of Achnaclach Community Groups Date contacted Date response received Issue raised Forest District Response Others Date contacted Date response received Issue raised Forest District Response SEPA Meeting in

2007 No formal correspondence

Conifer plantation along burnsides – timings of removal.

Planned felling alleviated concerns.

SEPA


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Appendix II: Tolerance Table

Tolerance Table for West Argyll Forest District

Area or Zone

Action required

Adjustment to coupe boundaries (to a limit of 20% of coupe area)

Timing of restocking (years after felling)

Changes to species (in excess of 25% change)

Windblow clearance (ha>40% blown)

Changes to roadlines (m from centre line)

Exchange of letters

1.5ha 5 yrs No threshold 0.5ha native species. 5ha conifer

50m* Native woodland areas Plan

amendment 3.0ha 10yrs** No threshold 10ha conifer 100m

Exchange of letters

0.5ha 3 yrs Between evergreen and deciduous conifer species. No threshold for native species.

2ha conifer 50m Landscape sensitive areas***

Plan amendment


5ha conifer 100m

Exchange of letters


5ha conifer 200m Low sensitivity areas****

Plan amendment


10ha conifer 400m

* Any impact on existing ancient woodland will be agreed with no threshold

** Due to preference for natural regeneration

*** Includes all landscape designation areas, e.g. NSA’s, designed landscapes, plus WIAT, community woodlands and FD Strategic Planning Landscape Zone

**** All other areas not included in other zones. Localised environmental sensitivities within the zone will be covered under existing management plans. Consultation on

these sites will be undertaken as part of the normal approval process and methods detailed in work plans.

Note: Any increase in open space will be subject to EIA thresholds for deforestation unless part of normal process of forest restructuring

Dalbuie Forest Design Plan 2014-23 Planning

Appendix III: FDP Brief and Introductory Information for Initial Stakeholder Meeting

(Points agreed at Internal Stakeholder’s meeting noted in italics)

Introduction Dalbuie Forest covers 1912ha. The current plan expires in March 2014. Progress All Phase 1 felling is complete. Phase 2 felling is almost complete. Felling in the block has been affected by windblow, but timing of felling and coupe structure has remained largely unaffected. Some windlblow still requires felling. Additional roading required to access programmed coupes has been built. Acquisition of additional land above Pennygowan Farm is ongoing. Several adjoining private woodland owners have requested access to the forest road network, although the funding bid failed. Interest in the forest for a windfarm (Scottish Power) has been delayed until March 2015, pending a grid connection.

Issues

1. Rhu Stafnish Below powerline Felling was undertaken in 2006, with native woodland planned to replace it by natural regeneration. Regeneration of native woodland is patchy. Conifer regeneration is also appearing, probably due to retained seed sources (LP & Larch). The area was noted as prominent in the landscape, visible from as far away as Ballochgair, hence in the current FDP, LP retentions were to be removed unless in hollows. This did not happen as they were seen as uneconomic and are now eyesores. In addition, a stand of checked WH was also to be felled, but did not take place for the same reason. Agreed that conifer regeneration and conifer retentions would be removed. Above powerline

SS on a steep bank is posing a risk to the powerlines, one serving the masts, the other coastal properties. Access is through poor SLP. A decision on how much of the SLP can be removed at the same time is needed. Proposed felling coupe agreed.

2. SLP

SLP was planted in pure blocks. It is poor throughout, in various states of collapse, windblow, decay or LP regeneration. Policy in the 1990’s was to class all SLP as ’bog woodland’ Natural Reserves as it was uneconomic to harvest. However, this classification is no longer appropriate. The eastern section (Feochaig) was also thought to have benefit for Black grouse. There is little or no utilisable timber here now. Some utilisable timber is probably achievable from the southern area (Cockalane), but may not produce a positive return. Some LP regeneration is also appearing in adjacent restock sites (Feochaig). Both sites are quite visible in the landscape.

Opportunity for fuel wood marketing. Proposed areas to be felled or retained agreed.

3. CFR (Glen Mucklach & Glen Kerran) Several stands of mature SS have been left in the riparian area within the CFR, some on AW sites. Ops cited access difficulties as the reason for leaving them. What do we do with them now? CFR designation no longer in use and should be dropped. Suggestion to ring-bark conifers would be looked at. 4. Kildalloig, Balnabraid Glen

An area of 24.6ha of ‘lost’ open moorland has long been in dispute with the neighbouring estate, who vociferously claims ownership to it. A resolution would require LA input. The land has been managed under a CPS to benefit Black grouse (SNH input). SNH also report the presence of the moss ‘Sphagnum recurvum’.

Objectives Commercial timber production at 14Km3/annum. Construct 3.3Km of new roads to access Phase 1 coupes. No new roading is

required in Phase 2. Conifer species diversification for landscape/amenity where appropriate and

climate change agenda. Landscape improvements to take account of planned extension to Kintyre Way.

Implementation of management proposals in SSSI. Incorporate outline new planting proposals for new acquisition at Pennygowan

Farm. Consolidate broadleaved establishment in key areas, notably Rhu Stafnish.

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Appendix IV: Glossary

ASNW Ancient Semi-natural Woodland

ATC Alternative to clearfell management CCF Continuous cover forestry FCS Forestry Commission Scotland FD Forest District FDP lan Forest design pFE Fore rprise st EnteHAP n Habitat action plaHS Historic Scotland LIFE ent for the Environment Financial InstrumLISS Low Impact Silvicultural System LP Lodgepole pine MFST Millennium Forest for Scotland Trust NNR National Nature Reserve NSA National Scenic Area PAWS Woodland Sites Plantation on AncientRSPB Royal Society for the Protection of Birds SAC Special Area of Conservation SAM Scheduled Ancient Monument SNH Scottish Natural Heritage SDA Stocking Assessment Density SP Strategic Plan SPA Special Protection Area SS Sitka spruce SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest SWT Scottish Wildlife Trust WAFD West Argyll Forest District WoSAS gy Service West of Scotland ArchaeoloYC Yield Class

Appendix V: Supplementary Information

Available for inspection at: West Argyll Forest District Whitegates Lochgilphead Argyll PA31 8RS Tel: 01546 - 602518 Documentation includes:- Roadline surveys Production Forecast 2011 Sub-compartment database Conservation plan Landscape Character Assessment by SNH Aerial photos Forestry Guidelines Recreation Plan Strategic Forest Design Plan Forestry Commission approval procedures Scheduled Ancient Monument Plans Inventory of Ancient, long-established and semi-natural woodland, Argyll & Bute District (NCCS) Economic felling ages Soil surveys Crop surveys

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