Scotland’s woodlands and forests are a vital national resource and play an important role in rural development and sustainable land use.

As well as helping to reduce the impacts of climate change and providing timber for industry, our forests enhance and protect the environment and provide opportunities for public enjoyment.

The Forestry Grant Scheme (FGS) will support: - the creation of new woodlands, contributing towards the Scottish Government target of 10,000 hectares of new woodlands per year - the sustainable management of existing woodlands

PUBLIC ACCESS - RURAL

This option aims to provide support for the management of rural woodlands for public access.

Support is provided to assist with the ongoing maintenance of paths that promote the use of woodlands for health benefits.

This is an annual grant to support the costs of maintenance of public access in woodlands.

The grant supports the ongoing activities of:

• carrying out annual tree and path safety inspections
• keeping access routes free of litter and tree debris
• keeping paths and signs and recreational facilities up to an acceptable standard