Chilterns Woodland Award Invitation (Contributed)

ENTRIES are being invited for the 2007 Chilterns Woodland Award which recognises good practice in the management of trees and woods in the Chilterns. The deadline for entries is 31st July.

?This Award recognises the hard work of those who care for the woods, trees and wildlife of the Chilterns? says Kath Daly of the Chilterns Conservation Board. ?Whether your main focus is timber production, wildlife or public benefit, if you manage woodlands in a sustainable way, in keeping with the landscape of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, then do consider entering this year?s Award.?

The Award is open to woodland owners and managers and can include woodlands on both public and private land. All types and sizes of woods are eligible, from a new community planting scheme to a 500 acre woodland with well promoted public facilities. Individual tree work is also eligible.

The Woodland Award is promoted jointly by the Chilterns Conservation Board and Forestry Commission. All entries will be considered by an experienced judging panel that can also offer advice and ideas to entrants if needed.

With more than 20% woodland cover, the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) is one of the most wooded areas of England. A large proportion of the woodlands are small and privately owned, whilst a further 20% are in public ownership.

The overall winner in 2006 was Bix Estate Woods, covering an area of 176 hectares near Henley-on-Thames in South Oxfordshire. The woodland is owned by Lord Alvingham and managed by Geoff Hopwood, Forestry Consultant.

For an entry form or to find out more contact Kath Daly, Countryside Officer, Chilterns Conservation Board on 01844 355504 or email kdaly@chilternsaonb.org