Scientists at Forest Research are seeking practitioners who have experience of planting, managing or overseeing a tree species mixture to take part in a short survey.
The survey will form part of a new Centre for Forest Protection research project which investigates the resilience of mixed species – compared to single species – stands as part of efforts to improve resilience to drought in the face of the climate emergency.
“By sharing your knowledge and experience with us, you’ll be helping to influence which species mixtures we prioritise in our research, and ultimately help shape future drought guidance for the UK forestry sector”, said George Xenakis, senior climate change scientist at Forest Research.
Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and severity of droughts, posing significant challenges for forest ecosystems. Establishing mixed-species forests, as recommended by the UK Forestry Standard, may help their ability to adapt to drought conditions – however the current evidence base is inconclusive.
This project will combine innovative experimental approaches such as Internet of Things sensors and remote sensing, with essential stakeholder consultations – like the survey.
By sharing your knowledge and experience with us, you’ll be helping to influence which species mixtures we prioritise in our research
The overarching aim of the project is to assess whether planting mixtures improves drought resilience, by trialling those recommended as part of our stakeholder consultation. The research findings will be used to provide practical guidance and policy recommendations for forest management.
Visit the Forest Research Climate Change Hub to find out more about the project and our current drought guidance.
This project is being delivered by Forest Research, as part of research funded by the Centre for Forest Protection, a joint venture led by Forest Research and the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew and financed by The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
The University of Edinburgh and INRAE in France are project partners.
A new national map showing the location of trees outside of woodlands across Wales is now available for the first time.
Two new appointments to the committee strengthen independent scientific advice for UK forestry.
On 17 February 2026, the Knowledge Exchange Network for the Large-scale Ecosystem Recovery Network (LERN) was launched at Harold’s Park Wildland in Essex.
A new national map showing the location of trees outside of woodlands across Wales is now available for the first time.
Two new appointments to the committee strengthen independent scientific advice for UK forestry.
On 17 February 2026, the Knowledge Exchange Network for the Large-scale Ecosystem Recovery Network (LERN) was launched at Harold’s Park Wildland in Essex.