Our vision

Healthy, thriving native woodlands valued for their unique contribution to Scotland’s people, culture, economy and natural environment.

Scottish Native Woods exists to rescue, restore and expand Scotland’s native (natural) woodlands. Long ago Scotland’s land area was virtually all forested. However, over the centuries all but 2% of this rich habitat has been destroyed by alternative land uses, and much of the remainder is still under threat. We work to bring these remaining native woods back into responsible management and to enlarge these areas through natural regeneration.

Native Woodlands deliver many benefits to the nation as a whole, but particularly to native flora and fauna, including threatened species such as juniper, pearl-bordered fritillary butterfly, red squirrel and black grouse. Scotland is the stronghold of the UK’s most natural and extensive native woodland remnants many of which are of international significance.

Native woodland restoration has a crucial role to play in sustainable development with the many benefits this represents to society. Scottish Native Woods is raising awareness and changing attitudes in order to protect our heritage.

Scottish Native Woods is a Scottish recognised charity which champions the cause of native woodlands in Scotland and helps with the practical difficulties of managing and restoring native woodlands

Our Area Managers are based in different parts of Scotland, and provide woodland management advice.

You can find out more about the history of the organisation.

You can get in touch with us through our office.