Speak Up for Our Forests


Tree Wardens are urged to have their say on the future of England’s public woods and forests.

The Independent Panel on Forestry is inviting everyone to share their views on forests and woods in England, and what they can and should provide, now and in the future. This is a great opportunity to highlight how and why you value them. 

The panel’s remit is to advise the Government on the future of England’s forests and woods by April 2012. It was announced by Caroline Spelman, Defra Secretary of State, in February when she confirmed the Government’s u-turn on forestry sales and that it was halting its consultation on the future management of the Public Forest Estate.

The Right Reverend James Jones, Bishop of Liverpool, who chairs the panel, said: “There is no doubt that people care deeply about the forests and their future. This subject has touched a nerve with the public and part of the panel’s work is to understand why.

“I therefore urge you to use this opportunity and share your thoughts, ideas and feelings with us. It is crucial that we listen to everyone to whom this matters because ultimately this is a conversation that should involve us all.”

• Find out more about the panel’s questions and how to respond with your views at www.defra.gov.uk/rural/forestry/panel.