Good time to get felling

The market for conifer timber is currently strong so now is a good time to consider felling a mature crop.

The message comes from Balfours forestry consultant Stephen Habershon, pictured above, who acknowledges that because woodland and forests are very much part of our landscape, sometimes even the owners can forget that harvesting at optimum time is essential to maximise returns.

"Trees are planted as a crop and therefore must be harvested when mature. For those maturing now - owners will be pleased to hear that the market is buoyant, particularly for spruce," says Mr Habershon.

Not only are conifers currently yielding a fair return on investment, but today's woodland grants will enable replanting of the bare site with young trees to grow on to provide a future crop of timber.

He explains: "Restocking grants can be excellent for converting conifer areas to broadleaves, paying up to £1,760 per hectare, but of course it is essential that the right species is chosen for any particular site."

For further information on felling licences, marketing timber and Forestry Commission Grants call Stephen Habershon at Balfours' Craven Arms office on 01588 673314.