MAKING small woodlands more productive is the aim of a new project being piloted in the Tamar and Teign areas by Devon County Council and the Forestry Commission.

The scheme, 'Ward Forester', aims to manage clusters of woodland areas together to achieve economies of scale, access new markets and ensure supplies for the growing woodfuel market.

Woodland owners are being asked to get in touch if they would like to be part of the scheme so that their land can be 'mapped.' This will help build up a comprehensive picture of the woodland landscape and how these pockets of land could work together.

Forestry advisor for the county council Mick Bracken said: Whilst it may be difficult for owners of small woodland areas, say around 10 to 25 hectares, to manage their woodlands economically on their own, by clustering groups of owners together, the prospect becomes much more viable.

'One operation shared by several brings economies of scale into play, whereby everybody will benefit.'

Mr Bracken said forestry management was important: 'By thinning parts of a wood or forest we can get the low grade material out which can be used for fuel, consequently more light is let in for the benefit of woodland diversity and it also encourages tree growth for the production of higher grade timber.'

Although the pilot project is mainly focusing on three areas — Tamar, Teign and North Devon Mr Bracken said this did not exclude people from outside these areas getting in touch. Landowners should call 01392 382157.

The ultimate intention is that groups of woodland owners will generate enough income to pay for their own private forester to manage the woodlands.

The Forestry Commission's Mark Prior said: 'This exciting project essentially creates a new business enterprise in Devon which, as well as producing more renewable energy, will benefit the heath of woodlands, encourage our wildlife and help to produce more jobs.

'By creating a woodfuel supply chain in the county we expect more businesses and community buildings to use modern, fuel-efficient woodchip boilers.'