In 2020 Agriforest were tasked with undertaking a long term forest plan renewal (LTFP) of the woodland resource at Glen Estate, Peeblesshire, in the Scottish Borders.

 

The estate covers 3,500 acres of which 540 acres are woodland or commercial forestry. With some damage caused by Storm Arwen in November 2021 it was decided to undertake a phase of clear felling to catch up on over mature commercial stands once the LTFP was approved. Clearing wind blow and removing timber from some of the trickier areas of the estate which had been put off from previous years was also a priority. 

 

The work had been meticulously planned with extensive consultation with the local residents (30 + residential properties are within the estate) to minimise disruption. Being home to Pine Marten, Red Squirrels, and Badgers the wildlife was also worked around to cause minimal impact. With the landscape of the estate varying from ancient parkland to steep valleys, a variety of machinery and skills were required to allow the work to be completed. 

 

The timber harvested across all areas came to over 13,000 tonnes. Agriforest undertook the bulk of the remedial works where required although the estate roads held up incredibly well considering the bulk of the work was undertaken over winter months. Ground preparation was carried out in 2024, with planting being carried out in early 2025. A programme of maintenance across restock sites along with ongoing management of other woodlands is in full swing and we are delighted to be forming part of Glen Estate's long history in looking after and investing in the land.