Many farm woodlands remain neglected and land owners are largely unaware of the potential amenity, conservation and commercial benefits gained from managing these assets in a sustainable way. To illustrate how economic returns can be derived from woodland products, Foundation Degree students in Countryside and Wildlife Management were treated to a site tour and in depth discussion with Boughton and Buccleuth Estates woodland operations manager Jonathan Plowe. Jonathan manages nearly a thousand hectares of mature woodland on the grade 1 listed estate near Kettering, with the major source of revenue being firewood sales, the production of woodchip for combined heat and power units and the felling of timber for pulpwood. He was able to illustrate how a balance was achieved between often conflicting woodland commercial enterprises, conservation, game management and public access. As this visit illustrates, relating practice to theory is integral for the workforce of tomorrow – so if you fancy a career in the ‘great outdoors’ why not get in touch to discuss your course options?
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