Glenlivet's woodlands are a mixture of semi-natural birch woodland, found mainly in Strathavon, and conifer plantations dotted throughout the estate.

Woodlands are important for our local eco-system, providing vital places for a diverse range of plants and wildlife to grow, feed, breed and take shelter. The Estate looks after over 550 hectares of native woodland and we are continually increasing the native woodland cover along riparian corridors and with new plantings including the Jubilee Wood, a 60-acre woodland planted in partnership with a farm tenant, in 2012 to celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

We are taking steps to manage, protect and extend areas of birch wood. Grazing pressure is being reduced and natural regeneration encouraged, helping to conserve these attractive woods and the wildlife they support.

Alder, aspen, birch and bird cherry are common across the Estate, whilst ash, wych elm, gean and goat willow are all confined to a few flushed brown forest soils in the lower reaches of the Avon and Livet. Oak is scarce, but perhaps most striking is the absence of ancient Scots pine woodland. Self-sown Scots pine exist, thought to derive from seed from plantations.

Commercial conifers are spread throughout the Estate, planted by the Forestry Commission in the 1950’s and 1960’s. These have been re-structured to provide more varied aged plantations, producing a steady crop of timber. These plantations play an important role in our economy, providing secure long-term employment. They also contribute to tourism and recreation with mountain bike trails, walk routes and forest hides all found within the forests. Species such as Scottish crossbill, Red squirrel, Pine marten, Badger and Wildcat all thrive in the area.

Certification Statement of Crown Estate Scotland Woodlands

Crown Estate Scotland has a long tradition of sustainable woodland management in its forest estates throughout Scotland.

Since 2000, all our productive woodlands have been certified and audited to ensure woodlands are managed according to the requirements of the UK Woodland Assurance Standard (UKWAS).

Crown Estate Scotland hereby declares the commitment of all our staff, managers and managing agents towards compliance with the standard in all our woodland management operations.

Crown Estate Scotland.

For and on behalf of Crown Estate Scotland