Forestry and Freshwater Ecology

Forests play a major role in the ecological functioning of the freshwater environment. Forest streams, rivers, lakes, ponds and wetlands all provide habitat for a large range of plant and animal species. Several protected and priority species such as otters, water vole, Atlantic salmon and freshwater pearl mussels are particularly associated with woodlands.  

To meet UK Forestry Standard requirements, forest design and management must restore and maintain the natural features, processess and habitat of the freshwater ecology. The water elements of the forest must be considered in the preparation of forest design plans and all forest operations to ensure the freshwater biodiversity is protected and the water resource suitable for a range of purposes.