FSC-UK Standards 1-5

　

FOREST STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL

　

　

Forest Management Standards

for Great Britain

　

Endorsed Standard

　

October 1998

　

Prepared for: Prepared by: Edited by:

The FSC Standards Group Pryor & Rickett Silviculture Anna Jenkins

FSC UK Office The Sheepcote, Monks Orchard 24D Percy Gardens

Unit D, Station Building Lugwardine Tynemouth

LLANIDLOES SY18 6EB HEREFORD　HR1 4AG Tyne & Wear　NE30 4HQ

UK UK　 UK

Tel:01686 413916 Tel:01432 851311 Tel: 0191 259 5046

Fax:01686 412176 Fax:01432 851411

email:hannah@fsc-uk.demon.co.uk email: prs@silviculture.demon.co.uk email: anna.jenkins@mcnultynet.co.uk

2.	Acronyms
3.	Compliance with the Standards
4.	Forest Management Standards for Great Britain
5.	Appendices: Appendix 1: Glossary Appendix 2: Checklist of Supporting Documents

2. ACRONYMS

AONB	Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
ASNW	Ancient Semi-Natural Woodland
BASC	British Association for Shooting and Conservation
BFSS	British Field Sports Society
COSHH	Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
DSS	Decision Support Systems
EA	Environmental Appraisal
FA	Forestry Authority (Part of FC)
FASTCo	Forestry & Aboriculture Safety & Training Council
FC	Forestry Commission
FE	Forest Enterprise (Part of FC)
FMU	Forest Management Unit
FSC	Forest Stewardship Council
GB	Great Britain (excludes Northern Ireland)
GCT	Game Conservancy Trust
GMO	Genetically Modified Organism
HAP	Habitat Action Plan
HMSO	Her Majesty’s Stationary Office
HSE	Health and Safety Executive
MAFF	Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
NGO	Non Government Organisation
OSNW	Other Semi-Natural Woodland
PAWS	Plantations on Ancient Woodland Site
SAP	Species Action Plan
UK	United Kingdom (includes Northern Ireland)
WGS	Woodland Grant Scheme

3. COMPLIANCE WITH THE STANDARDS

Forests are expected to be managed in compliance with every part of the standards, throughout the period of the certificate.　However, the introduction to the FSC’s International Principles and Criteria includes the following comments:

‘FSC and FSC-accredited certification organisations will not insist on perfection in satisfying the P&C.　However, major failures in any individual Principles will normally disqualify a candidate from certification, .........　Some flexibility will be allowed to cope with local circumstances.’

However, a commitment to reach the required level within a specified period may be acceptable for a small number of minor requirements.　In such cases the applicant must demonstrate an intention and ability to reach the required level, within a period agreed with the certifier.　This progression towards full compliance is more likely to be acceptable when it concerns enhancement rather than protection of the forest.　Conversely, it is unlikely to be acceptable if major, irreversible changes in the forest will be made before full compliance is achieved.　That is, the precautionary principle will be applied when considering the acceptability of any non-compliance.

It is also recognised that some applicants may feel that certain requirements are not appropriate to their particular situation.　Some deviation to allow local adaptation may therefore be acceptable, but this will only be acceptable in the following situations:

・ it is physically not possible to achieve the requirement in this forest;

・ the approach taken is a more effective means of achieving the end result intended by the Principle and Criteria;

・ the rationale for the deviation is greater social or environmental benefits, rather than economic gain;

・ the impacts of the action - both positive & negative - are more carefully monitored and appraised than would otherwise be the case.

The certifier will take a professional judgement as to the acceptability of the deviation, and may consult appropriate specialists.　The FSC Working Group will be fully informed of all significant deviations.

4. FOREST MANAGEMENT STANDARDS FOR GREAT BRITAIN

1	PRINCIPLE 1: COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS AND FSC PRINCIPLES Forest management shall respect all applicable laws of the country in which they occur, and international treaties and agreements to which the country is a signatory, and comply with all FSC Principles and Criteria.	MEANS OF VERIFICATION AND GUIDANCE NOTES
2	Compliance with National Legislation (Criteria 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 & 1.5)
3	All regulations and the relevant elements of the Guidelines issued by the Forestry Authority (FA) are complied with in documentation and in practice.	Field inspection Compatibility with, and reference to, relevant legislation and guidance in: ・ Management Plans. ・ Internal management procedures and control systems. ・ Contracts and other documentation.
4	These are:	Forestry Authority regulations and Guidelines include:
5	・ Environmental Assessment Regulations.	・ Environmental Assessment Regulations.
6	・ Felling Licences and conditions.	・ Felling Licences and conditions.
7	・ Woodland Grant Scheme Contract Terms and Conditions.	・ Woodland Grant Scheme Contract Terms and Conditions.
8	・ The UK forestry Standard.	・ The UK forestry Standard.
9	・ Forest and Environment Guidelines: Recreation, Water, Nature Conservation, Landscape, Archaeology, Soil Conservation.	・ Forest and Environment Guidelines: Recreation, Water, Nature Conservation, Landscape, Archaeology, Soil Conservation.
10	・ Forest Practice Guides for Native Woodlands.	・ Forest Practice Guides for Native Woodlands.
11	Forest management complies with the spirit of any relevant non-legislative Accords, Codes of Practice, Guidelines, Strategies, Recommendations or Protocols - whether National, Regional or local.	National guidance includes: ・ UK Forestry Accord. ・ Forestry Authority Handbooks & Practice Guides. ・ Timber Haulage Code of Practice. ・ Forestry & Aboriculture Safety & Training Council (FASTCo) Safety Guides. ・ Countryside recreation guidance. Regional and local guidance includes: ・ Indicative Forest Strategies. ・ Countryside and Landscape Strategies. ・ Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Guidelines.
12		Other relevant National Guidance includes:
13		・ UK Forestry Accord.
14		・ Forestry Authority Handbooks & Practice Guides.
15		・ Timber Haulage Code of Practice.
16		・ Forestry & Aboriculture Safety & Training Council (FASTCo) Safety Guides.
17		・ Countryside recreation guidance.
18		Regional and Local Guidance:
19		・ Indicative Forest Strategies.
20		・ Countryside and Landscape Strategies.
21		・ Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) Guidelines.
22	There is no evidence or substantiated claims of non-compliance with legislation that relates to forest management by the owner, manager or tenant.	Forest manager's awareness of, and compliance with, relevant legislation, including Acts, Orders or Statutory Instruments related to the following topics:
23		・ Environmental Protection and Pollution.
24		・ Agriculture and land use.
25		・ Wildlife and Countryside.
26		・ Health and Safety.
27		・ Employment.
28		・ Planning System.
29		・ Tree Preservation and Hedgerow Protection.
30		・ Historic Monuments and Built Heritage.
31		・ Highways and Public Access Rights.
32		・ Property and Land Tenure.
33		・ Financial and Fiscal.
34		・ Trading Practice and Contracts.
35		If concerns are raised over compliance then further field inspections are carried out and contact is made with the relevant authorities and/or local people.
36	Managers have taken all reasonable measures to stop illegal or unauthorised uses of the forest, which could jeopardise fulfilment of the management plan.	Field inspection. Written or verbal evidence from forest managers.
37	Commitment to FSC Principles and Criteria (Criterion 1.6)
38	The owner, manager or tenant have signed a commitment to comply with FSC GB Standards for 5 years and declared their intention to protect and maintain the integrity of the woodland in the long term.	Signed statement of commitment.
39	If a substantial failure has lead to de-certification in the past, then substantial changes in ownership or management regime have been implemented and a 2-year track record of compliance established.	New owner, manager or control procedures.
40	PRINCIPLE 2: TENURE AND USE RIGHTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES Long-term tenure and use rights to the land and forest resources shall be clearly defined, documented and legally established.
41	Land Title (Criterion 2.1)
42	A signed statement of ownership or tenure is available, with a map clearly showing legal boundaries. This can be substantiated by legal documents if required and is not subject to substantial dispute.	A signed Woodland Grant Scheme, other Management Plan or a specific signed statement of ownership. Challenge arising from local contact or other publicity. Title deeds or solicitors' letter where there is a dispute over ownership.
43	Local Use Rights (Criteria 2.2 & 2.3)
44	All legal rights and interests in the land held by others are honoured through compliance with the relevant legislation, legal decisions and disputes procedures. Before any changes in management are implemented the views of anyone whose legal rights are likely to be adversely affected are ascertained and their views taken into account.	Compliance with property legislation including: ・ Access Management Agreements with Local Authorities.
45		・ Legally established Common Rights.
46		・ Agricultural and Crofting Tenancies.
47		・ Public Access Rights.
48		・ Water Supplies.
49		・ Easements, servitudes, land conditions and wayleaves.
50		・ Mineral Rights.
51		・ Sporting Rights.
52		Legal documents or Correspondence with or from solicitors over any outstanding disputes.
53		Maps, especially Definitive Rights of Way Maps.
54		Field inspection.
55		Feedback from affected parties, solicited where concerns have been expressed.
56	PRINCIPLE 3: INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' RIGHTS The legal and customary rights of indigenous peoples to own, use and manage their lands, territories and resources shall be recognised and respected.
57	Permissive and Customary Uses (Criteria 3.1, 3.2 & 3.4)
58	Any existing permissive or customary uses of the forest are sustained, including:	Contact with local people.
59	・ Permissive footpaths and bridleways.
60	・ Other permissive access including to forests managed by the Forest Enterprise.
61	・ De facto access to well-known landmarks or features.
62	・ Traditional 'Common rights'.
63	・ Gathering of fruit and fungi by the public for their own consumption.
64	Such uses may be constrained by the owner if they threaten the integrity of the forest.
65	Some public access is provided to the forest (with appropriate signs) via one or more of the following measures:	Field inspection of signs, paths and gates.
66	・ A permissive freedom to roam
67	・ Public Rights of Way through or beside the wood
68	・ Publicised open days or guided walks each year
69	・ Permissive access on specified routes
70	・ Access Management Agreements with Local Authorities.
71	However, in the following situations public access may not be appropriate and may have been withheld:
72	・ Small woods < 5 ha with a high private amenity value.	Field inspection of signs, paths and gates.
73	・ Areas that adjoin dwellings or private gardens.
74	・ Isolated forests to which there is no ready access route for the public across adjoining land.
75	・ Forests where there is current evidence of serious and sustained abuse or damage.
76	・ Areas of the forest that contain sites, species or features that would be particularly vulnerable to disturbance.
77	・ Periods or days when country sports, outdoor recreation or special events would be jeopardised.
78	・ Temporary closures in order to ensure public safety.
79	Where there is strong demand for further public access, the manager has made efforts to try to meet this demand.
80	Protection of Cultural Features (Criterion 3.3)
81	All sites and features of special cultural significance have been identified and, discussed with interested local people and the relevant authorities, and measures taken to protect the sites and cultural features.	Maps showing cultural and recreational features. Management Plan. Correspondence with local people or their representatives. Field inspection.
82		Typical examples include:
83		・ Prominent viewing points
84		・ Landscape features
85		・ Veteran and other notable trees
86		・ Historical features and archaeological sites
87		・ Forests which feature in literature or which are of artistic significance
88		・ Historic landscapes and woods which are still managed under traditional systems. Forestry Authority guidance has been obtained regarding woodlands in designed landscapes.
89	PRINCIPLE 4: COMMUNITY RELATIONS AND WORKER'S RIGHTS Forest management operations shall maintain or enhance the long-term social and economic well being of forest workers and local communities.
90	Local Employment and Services (Criterion 4.1)
91	Forests are integrated into the rural economy, with local contractors and suppliers not prevented from providing services and supplies.	Details of contractors and service providers from Forest Manager. Information from the Forest Manager on how local firms are given opportunities and, if necessary, justification for firms used. Contact with local contractors.
92	Health and Safety (Criterion 4.2)
93	All work is carried out in accordance with existing Health and Safety legislation and associated Codes of Practice.	Forest Manager's familiarity with legislation and Codes of Practice. Written Safety Policy (where appropriate).
94	Managers promote continuous improvement in standards of health and safety, and ensure that all workers have had relevant safety training and hold appropriate Certificates of Competence.	Risk Assessments and identification of hazardous sites. Accident Book, training records and other monitoring documentation. Feedback from employees and contractors. Field inspection of work in progress, machinery and chemical store.
95	Training (Criterion 4.2)
96	Forest managers, supervisors, contractors, operator and workers are all appropriately trained to ensure that they have relevant competencies to prepare or implement the Management Plan. Managers of large forests promote training of contractors in particular and offer assistance with sites and subsidies for training courses. New recruits to the industry are encouraged and supported by managers' flexibility, and given training and assistance during a probationary period.	Training records, Continuing Professional Development schedules, competencies and certificates.
97	Workers' Rights (Criterion 4.3)
98	Employees and other workers are not deterred from joining a union or association, or from negotiating, collectively if desired, with their employers.	Employment contracts. Feedback from employees and other workers.
99	Consultation on Social Impacts (Criterion 4.4 and 7.4)
100	Managers ensure that there is adequate consultation with local people and relevant organisations. In particular, local people and relevant organisations are made aware that:	Original Woodland Grant Scheme proposals and Woodland Grant Scheme finally agreed. Correspondence between manager and/or Forestry Authority and consultees. Manager's awareness of local people and issues. Contact with local people.
101	・ A new or revised Woodland Grant scheme and associated documents are available for inspection.
102	・ An unusual or high impact operation is planned.
103	・ The operation is being certified.
104	Compensation (Criterion 4.5)
105	Managers have mitigated the wider negative impacts of forest operations on local people - such as noise, smoke and timber traffic - and have responded constructively to any complaints they have received.　Managers ensure that trees standing alongside the route used by the public through or beside the woodland are reasonably safe through regular inspection and remedial operations.　Risk of accident from other hazards is reduced through appropriate action including warning signs, fencing and remedial works.	Conditions in harvesting contracts re disturbance. Contact with local people. Records of tree safety inspections and tree surgery operations. Field inspection of roadsides and woodland paths.
106	Existing legislative procedures for remedying losses or damage to local people are followed.	Contact with disputing parties.
107	Forest owners, employers and contractors hold adequate public liability and employers liability insurance.	Insurance policies and clauses re insurance in contracts.
108	PRINCIPLE 5: BENEFITS FROM THE FOREST Forest management operations shall encourage the efficient use of the forest's multiple products and services to ensure economic viability and a wide range of environmental and social benefits.
109	Long-Term Viability (Criterion 5.1)
110	Managers are aware of both the direct and indirect impacts of their decisions and have opted for measures that enhance the multiple benefits that the forest provides.	Forest Manager's awareness of impacts and justification of management practices. Typical examples include:
111		・ Employment changes associated with mechanised harvesting.
112		・ Ecological effects of different weeding regimes.
113		・ The positive and negative impacts of limited road building.
114		・ Ecological effects of different thinning regimes.
115		・ Ecological and visual impact of fencing versus tree shelters.
116	Local Employment and Services; Optimal and Diverse Uses (Criteria 4.1, 5.2 & 5.4)
117	Forests are integrated into the rural economy, with local contractors and suppliers not prevented from providing services and supplies. Forest managers promote the integration of forests into the local economy by:	Information on sales and marketing from Forest Manager, adverts, mailing lists, sales particulars, sale contracts.
118	・ Making reasonable provision for local contractors and suppliers to provide services and supplies.	Details of contractors and service providers from Forest Manager. Information from the Forest Manager on how local firms are given opportunities and, if necessary, justification for firms used.
119	・ Local or specialist markets are not denied opportunities to purchase small scale or specialist parcels.	Contact with local contractors.
120	・ Promoting and encouraging enterprises that will strengthen and diversify the forest or local economy.
121	Minimising Waste and Damage (Criterion 5.3)
122	Timber is harvested efficiently and without undue waste, and unless there is strong environmental justification:	Field inspection of minimum intervention areas, harvesting sites and roadside timber stacks.
123	・ Avoids retention of logs with a high timber value as deadwood habitat.	Prescriptions in management plans.
124	・ Avoids damage to standing trees during extraction and burning.	Relevant clauses in harvesting or sales contracts.
125	・ Avoids timber degrade through poor harvesting techniques or conversion.
126	Lop and top is only burnt where alternatives are not feasible or burning is environmentally preferable. If burning is done, the location and density of fire sites are carefully planned and several heaps or patches of lop and top are left unburned as habitat unless there are severe biotic problems.
127	Whole tree harvesting (i.e. extraction of all branches) is only practised where it will have significant benefits for biodiversity, or where it is unlikely to have significant negative effects on the site (i.e. leaching, soil compaction and nutrient loss). Forestry Authority Guidance has been obtained.
128	Forest Services (Criterion 5.5)
129	Forest managers are enhancing the multiple benefits that the forest provides both to local people and to the wider public, including:	Woodland Grant Scheme and associated maps and policy statements. Field inspection of routes, entrance points and signs. Feedback from locals.
130	・ Recreational access (see Principle 3).
131	・ Water resources (See Principle 6).
132	・ Protection of landform and soils (See Principle 6).
133	・ Landscape and cultural heritage (See Principles 3 and 6).
134	・ Employment (See Principles 4 and 5).
135	・ Biodiversity (See Principle 6).
136	Sustained Yield (Criterion 5.6)
137	Harvesting plans do not jeopardise the long-term productive potential of the forest, and are based on careful planning of felling, sensitive harvesting techniques and full regeneration of felled areas.	Working or Management Plan, or Long term Design Plan. Woodland Grant Scheme (Five-year) plan.
138	Forest Managers have clear and soundly based thinning, felling and regeneration plans that stipulate:	Field inspection.
139	・ Felling ages or size.
140	・ Thinning type, intensity and frequency.
141	・ Species preferences and selection criteria.
142	・ Means of regeneration and desired species composition.
143	・ Scale of operations and rate of application (i.e. areas and time periods).
144	These plans take into account:
145	・ Stem size and quality.
146	・ Growth rates and windfirmness.
147	・ Current and future markets for timber.
148	・ Impacts on the landscape and wildlife.
149
150	Where timber production is a primary objective, Forest Managers have estimates of key production data:	Information provided by Forest Manager, substantiated by field checking.
151	・ Average growth rates or Yield Class for major species on different site types.	The accuracy of growth and yield estimates is appropriate to the scale and intensity of the operation.
152	・ Predictions of thinning and felling yields for different crop types.	For example:
153	・ Forecasts of areas to be subject to different harvesting operations in future years.	・ For small woods or for low impact operations in mixed broadleaved woodland: estimates based on general past experience.
154	・ Records of production (i.e. output) from all significant harvesting operations.	・ For medium-sized forests estimates made by professional experts with relevant experience and substantiated by occasional measurement.
155	Where timber production is not a primary objective then greater emphasis is placed on area rather than volume predictions and data.	・ Far large conifer forests sample measurement (of height and/or possibly diameter) and use of appropriate yield models.
156	Forest managers have ensured that predictions of growth and production are compatible, and reconcile actual with predicted production, investigating any major disparities.
157	Large, even-aged forests are gradually being restructured to diversify ages and species and thereby achieve a more even spread of fellings and yield of timber.	Long-term Design Plans and/or Woodland Grant Scheme. Field inspection.
158	If any non-timber forest products - such as foliage, moss or fungi - are harvested with the permission of the forest manager the same principle of sustained yield is applied. Information is provided which demonstrates that either the scale and impact is insignificant, or the quantities harvested are in line with sustainable growth rates and that there are no significant adverse environmental impacts.	Harvesting/sale contracts. Baseline data on abundance. Historical records demonstrating past uses. Sample plots and records of regrowth.
159	PRINCIPLE 6: ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT Forest management shall conserve biological diversity and its associated values, water resources, soils, and unique and fragile ecosystems and landscapes, and, by so doing, maintain the ecological functions and integrity of the forest.
160	Assessment of Environmental Impacts (Criterion 6.1)
161	The environmental impacts of forest operations have been assessed prior to implementing management, in a manner appropriate to the scale of operations and sensitivity of the site:	EA., Design Plan, environmental appraisal, Woodland Grant Scheme and specific reports.
162	・ Brief environmental appraisals (including Landscape Design Plans) for planting or felling schemes which might affect sites recognised for their cultural, landscape, hydrological or ecological value.	Modifications to original proposals.
163	・ Forest Design Plans covering at least 20 years for major restructuring of large forests	Monitoring procedures.
164	・ Ecological assessments of Native pinewoods and ancient semi-natural woodlands and broad projections of how they are likely to change in response to management and natural processes (see Criterion 7.1).
165	・ Specific environmental assessments for any operations that are both unusual and extensive.	Examples of unusual operations not covered by Forestry Authority Guidelines are: ・ Soil ripping after felling. ・ Applying sewage sludge. ・ Winning (quarrying) stone for roads.
166	・ Seeking specialist advice on the impact of forest operations on any rare or vulnerable species or on special sites.
167	The results of these assessments have been incorporated into the management proposals, by modification and mitigation measures, to ensure any adverse impacts are avoided or reduced.
168	The impact of forest operations has also been considered at a landscape level, with due account taken of the interaction with adjoining land and other nearby habitats. In particular, the operations have been planned with consideration of:	Compatibility of management proposals with wider plans, strategies and assessments:
169	・ The age structure and species composition of other woodland in the area.	・ Indicative forestry strategies and regional plans.
170	・ The needs of animals that use both the forest and surrounding land.	・ Landscape character maps, priorities and assessments.
171	・ Habitats which are continuous from inside to outside the forest (e.g. watercourses).	・ Whole farm plans.
172	・ The role of forest margins as transitional habitats.	・ Deer management strategies.
173	・ Linking open space within the forest with similar habitats outside.	・ Village design statements.
174	・ The spread of invasive species across the forest boundary, in either direction.
175	The impact of forest operations on natural physical features (such as rock exposures, drainage patterns, and other geomorphic features and processes) has been considered and measures adopted to protect and enhance them.
176	Protection of Rare Species and Habitats (Criterion 6.2)
177	The areas and features of particular significance for biodiversity have been identified through field survey, and marked on an appropriate map, and include:	Map of biodiversity features, checked during field inspections.
178	・ Ancient semi-natural woodland and plantations on ancient woodland sites.	Forest manager's contact with local amateur naturalists and relevant statutory authorities.
179	・ Other semi-natural woodland.
180	・ Other valuable or diverse wildlife communities.
181	・ Rare, or vulnerable species.
182	・ Breeding sites, feeding areas and habitats of notable species.
183	・ Water courses, ponds and lakes.
184	・ Wetland habitats.
185	・ Any other valuable habitats.
186	・ Rides and open ground.
187	・ Woodland margins and hedges.
188	・ Veteran trees.
189	These special areas and features are safeguarded and where possible enhanced through:	Woodland Grant Scheme. Special clauses in sales or harvesting contracts.
190	・ Following 'best practice' recommended by relevant statutory bodies.	Field inspection of harvesting sites containing special features.
191	・ Excluding areas from conventional forest operations, which may involve temporary demarcation.
192	・ Minimising the impact of operations carried out on surrounding land - whether forest or other land.
193	・ Carrying out operations specifically prescribed to protect these sites or species.
194	・ Seeking specialist advice for particularly rare or vulnerable species or features.
195	・ Setting aside Minimum Intervention Areas surrounding them for appropriate periods.
196	Hunting, game rearing and shooting, stalking and fishing are carried out in accordance with Forestry Authority guidance and the recommendations and Codes of Good Practice produced by the relevant associations. Forestry Authority guidance has been obtained.	Management Plan. Field inspection.
197	Game management does not cause long-term or widespread negative impacts on the forest ecosystem. Feeding and rearing is carried out in a manner and in locations that minimise any adverse impacts on the ground flora.	Contact with individuals exercising shooting and hunting rights. Sporting licences and associated correspondence and 'annual returns'. Membership of and adherence to Codes of Practice produced by: British Deer Society, Game Conservancy Trust (GCT), British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC), and British Field Sports Society (BFSS). If necessary, feedback from other users of the forest.
198	Predator control is:
199	・ Carefully planned.
200	・ Species specific.
201	・ Only carried out where strictly necessary.
202	・ Carried out in a humane manner.
203	・ Reducing rather than eradicating natural predator populations.
204	Unusual game species, other wild birds and animals which are not pests are only shot when they are locally abundant, and such shooting is at a level that will not affect numbers in successive years. Locally uncommon species are not shot or hunted.	Examples of game species that should not be shot where populations are low are: snipe, woodcock, black grouse, capercaillie, hares.
205	Deer and rabbit populations are managed - in co-operation with neighbouring landowner(s) - at a level that ensures they are not causing ecological damage. If this has not proved possible then sensitive areas - including regeneration sites, coppice coupes and areas with vulnerable flora - are protected from browsing.
206	Ecological Functions and Processes (Criterion 6.3)
207	The ecological integrity of the forest is sustained by ensuring that:	Field inspection of whole forest, especially felling and restocking areas, to ascertain whether any activity likely to jeopardise such ecological processes is being practised.
208	・ There is continuity of forest habitat through adequate regeneration.
209	・ Ecological cycles of carbon, oxygen, water and minerals are sustained.
210	・ Species diversity is maintained and dilution of local gene pools is minimised.
211	・ Silvicultural interventions imitate or are in keeping with the scale, speed and frequency of natural ecological processes - such as fire and windthrow - although often modified to ensure adverse impacts are reduced and other benefits are achieved.
212	Natural Reserves, Retentions and Deadwood (Criterion 6.4)
213	A minimum of 15% of the forest area is managed with biodiversity as a first priority by the following means: (Refer also to Criteria 10.4 and 10.8 below, line no 380)	Management Plan. Field inspection.
214	・ Conservation areas: Variable in percentage area of forest management unit (FMU). All features and areas of high value for biodiversity are conserved; will include non-forest habitats. The semi-natural characteristics of all types of forest are conserved or enhanced.	Conservation areas include: ・ ASNW, PAWS & OSNW. ・ Breeding sites. ・ Water courses and bodies. ・ Wetlands. ・ Rides and glades. ・ Margins. ・ Rare species & habitats (SAPs and HAPs). ・ Veteran trees.
215	・ Long-term retentions: Areas for long-term retention have been identified　and constitute a minimum of 1% of the forest area.	Long term retentions and natural reserves should be selected as stable stands or clumps and belts,　or even individual veteran trees, particularly in small woodlands.
216	・ Natural reserves: Areas of forest have been set aside where biodiversity is the prime objective. These are managed by minimum intervention unless alternative management has a higher conservation or biodiversity value. The identification of large natural reserves is given particular priority in forests which contain large areas (ie. > 50ha) of semi-natural woodland. These areas are predominantly wooded, are permanently identified and are in locations that are of particularly high wildlife interest or potential.　Natural reserves should comprise at least 1% of plantations and 5% of semi-natural woodlands (taken over the whole forest area).
217	Where the total of conservation areas, long-term retentions and natural reserves comprises < 15% of the forest area, then additional areas are identified where the enhancement of biodiversity is pursued.
218	In addition to these ‘biodiversity areas’, deadwood habitats are being increased throughout the forest by:	Field inspection of harvesting sites.
219	・ Retaining deadwood that reflects the sizes and species of tree present on the site and is matched to the requirements of species likely to be important on the site.	Due to lack of scientific evidence it is not possible at present to give precise guidance on the amount, distribution and composition of deadwood that is appropriate to the individual site.
220	・ Keeping 'snags', 'hulks', dead trees or those containing deadwood habitats standing.	An average density of 3 standing and 3 fallen stems per hectare across the forest as a whole would be an appropriate minimum target.
221	・ Not harvesting windthrown stems, with the exception of logs of particularly high value or where > 3m³ per ha is blown down.
222	・ Retaining some fallen trunks or logs after each harvesting operation.
223	・ Concentrating deadwood in areas where it is likely to be of greatest value - e.g. in shaded locations near to pre-existing deadwood.
224	The amount, state and type of deadwood and lop and top retained is modified to accommodate any public safety or plant health constraints.
225	Harvesting Impacts (Criteria 6.5 and 10.6)
226	The silvicultural system adopted, and particularly the scale and rate of felling, is determined by a careful consideration of:
227	・ The silvicultural characteristics of the species.
228	・ The current and future markets for timber products.
229	・ The scale and character of the landscape.
230	・ The age-structure of nearby woodland(s), and any felling planned therein.
231	・ The ecological processes and natural disturbance regime for that woodland type.
232	・ The need for continuity of open habitats within the woodland.
233	・ Historical management practices.
234	・ The perceptions and preferences of local people.
235	In semi-natural woodland and in plantations on ancient woodland sites, clearfell/replant silvicultural systems are being phased out in favour of one or more of the following systems:
236	・ Group selection.
237	・ Shelterwood or under-planting.
238	・ Small coupe felling systems.
239	・ Coppice or coppice with standards.
240	・ Minimum intervention.
241	In windfirm conifer plantations similar silvicultural systems are increasingly favoured. Larger scales of felling are justified in management plans and in implementation only by strong environmental reasons. Where windthrow is a constraint, then areas are felled and restocked in a manner that will reduce the extent of clear felling in the future.
242	The rate of felling is subject to the following conditions:
243	・ In plantations > 20 ha, no more than 25% is felled in any 5-year period unless all felling and restocking are based on an adequate Forest Design Plan.	These limits may be exceeded in plantations on ancient woodland sites in order to speed the restoration of the semi-natural character of the wood.
244	・ In semi-natural woodlands > 10 ha, no more than 10% is felled in any 5-year period.
245	・ In small semi-natural woods (<10 ha), silvicultural systems which provide some continuity of forest cover are used, unless habitat continuity is being achieved through proximity to other nearby woodlands.
246	In addition to these constraints, in forests > 100 ha:
247	・ The maximum size of an individual coupe in semi-natural woodland is 2 ha, although this may be exceeded in larger woodlands where there is a major net environmental benefit.
248	・ In plantations, the maximum coupe size is 20 ha except where larger coupes are explicitly justified through a combination of windthrow risk, landscape features and restructuring of current plantation design dictates larger coupe sizes. In this case, all felling and restocking are based on an adequate forest design plan.	A working group will specifically address the question of maximum coupe size as part of the audit protocol process.
249	An evaluation has been made to achieve a balance between timber extraction distances and road density, which takes into account the impact on the environment of both off-road extraction machinery and road construction. Roads and timber extraction tracks are designed, created and used in a manner that minimises their environmental impact:
250	・ Bridges or culverts are used to cross watercourses.
251	・ The route chosen avoids features of biological, geological or cultural value.
252	・ They are carefully landscaped, both internally and externally.
253	・ The width of swathe cut is kept to a minimum, usually < 5m between canopy edges, (unless there are environmental reasons to do otherwise e.g. glade creation).
254	・ The verges and ditches are created and managed to maximise their habitat value.
255	・ The materials used - especially rock type - do not disrupt the ecology of the forest.
256	The impacts of harvesting are reduced through the following:
257	・ Avoiding sensitive areas during the breeding season.
258	・ Delaying extraction until ground conditions are suitable.
259	・ The use of brash mats on extraction racks, or low ground pressure vehicles.
260	・ Careful planning of extraction routes to avoid sensitive areas.
261	Control of Biotic Problems (Criteria 6.6, 6.7 and 6.8)
262	Due to insufficient consensus being reached on use of pesticides this text is temporary and will be amended within twelve months from July 16^th 1998 following further negotiations. Within the proposed decision support system no specific approach has been ruled in or out. This includes the option of a restricted list of synthetic chemicals and/or a presumption against any use of chemicals in the long term. Managers are committed to reduce use of artificial pesticides (including fungicides and herbicides), fertilisers and other synthetic chemicals, and there is a presumption against the use of these substances in the long term.　Pesticides and fertilisers can only be used where there is no practicable alternative that does not entail excessive cost.	The Forestry Commission is committed to carry out research into methods of reducing chemical use in forestry and to publish the results of their research. All the requirements relating to chemical usage will be reviewed by June 1999, at which time it is expected that FC will have developed, in collaboration with FSC and the forest industry, a decision-support mechanism for use by forest managers.
263	Managers have prepared and implemented an effective strategy for the reduction of pesticide and fertiliser use as part of an integrated pest management approach. The strategy is appropriate to the scale of the forest management being audited and:	Written strategy for reduction of pesticide and fertiliser use.
264	・ includes a full description of all known use over the previous five (5) year period, or the duration of the current forest ownership if that is less than five (5) years; and
265	・ specifies targets for the reduction or elimination of such usages during the certification period.
266	・ Usage and targets for reduction are expressed on a per hectare basis and sub-divided according to operation being undertaken (e.g. establishment of broadleaves; establishment of conifers; harvesting).
267	Managers demonstrate knowledge of latest published advice and implementation of new advice in their chemical strategy.
268	Managers maintain a written record of the precise usage (including reason, method of application, site and quantity) of all chemicals.	Written records.
269	・ The record of usage is accompanied by a justification that includes: ・ description of non-chemical alternatives that were considered;
270	・ reasons for rejection of non-chemical alternatives;　and
271	・ an evaluation of effectiveness versus environmental risks for the chemical chosen, utilising the information available in the sources of best practice guidance listed.
272	All World Health Organisation Type 1A and 1B and chlorinated hydrocarbon pesticides are prohibited.
273	For grey squirrel control the guidelines in Forestry Practice Advice Note No. 4 (1996) ‘Controlling Grey Squirrel Damage to Woodlands’ must be followed, including the use of selective hoppers.	Specifications for selective hoppers are available on request from offices of the Forestry Authority.
274	Managers can demonstrate that they are in a position to meet the requirements of best practice for chemical use as specified in the listed documents (e.g. storage, disposal, safety equipment, written contingency plan in case of accident, availability of lock boxes for transport, availability of absorbent materials, etc.).	Requirements are specified in the following documents: ・ Forestry Practice Advice Note No. 2 (1995) ‘Managing Deer in the Countryside’; ・ Forestry Practice Advice Note No. 4 (1996) ‘Controlling Grey Squirrel Damage to Woodlands’; ・ Forestry Commission Occasional Paper 21 (1989) ‘Provisional Code of Practice for the Use of Pesticides in the Forest’; ・ The Use of Herbicides in the Forest.　Field Book 8 (1989) HMSO, London. ・ Health and Safety Executive, 1991: The safe use of Pesticides for Non-Agricultural Purposes.　Approved Code of Practice. HMSO London.
275	Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are not used.
276	Surplus chemicals, containers, waste materials, fuels and lubricants are disposed of in a manner that minimises their impact on the environment. Biodegradable lubricants are used where suitable in forest machinery and equipment.	Contracts for chemical applications. COSHH assessments. Field inspection of chemical storage, equipment and associated documentation. Contact with any relevant contractors. Training record and certificates of competence. Field inspection of restocked areas.
277	Tree shelters are collected once redundant and recycled or disposed of in a manner that causes minimal pollution.
278	Exotic Species (Criterion 6.9)
279	The criteria for using or reducing exotic tree crop species are specified under Principle 9 and Criteria 10.4. Other exotic plant or animal species are only introduced if they are confined to a very restricted area, are non-invasive and will bring environmental benefits. Any such introductions are carefully monitored.
280	Any area used solely and permanently for the production of Christmas trees or coniferous foliage cannot be certified unless it is < 5% of the total forest area. The use of chemicals is in line with Criteria 6.6, 6.7and 6.8.
281	PRINCIPLE 7: MANAGEMENT PLAN A management plan - appropriate to the scale and intensity of the operations - shall be written, implemented, and kept up to date. The long-term objectives of management, and the means of achieving them, shall be clearly stated.
282	Scope and Objectives of the Plan (Criteria 7.1 and 10.1)
283	All forests which are being actively managed and all afforestation schemes are either under an approved and comprehensive Woodland Grant Scheme or under a similar 'Management Plan' that includes a commitment to comply with the Forestry Authority Guidelines.	Woodland Grant Scheme, associated documents or Management Plan. Details of surrounding land (see Criterion 6.1).
284	If only a Woodland Grant Scheme is prepared then it is supplemented by:
286	・ A statement of objectives.
287	・ A brief assessment of the forest (physical, ecological and landscape characteristics).
288	・ Details of current standing crops, species and areas.
289	・ The rationale for silvicultural systems and prescriptions.
290	・ Outline plans for felling and regeneration over the next 20-30 years.
291	・ A vision of how the forest is expected to develop in the very long term.
292	・ Maps showing:
293	Biodiversity protection measures (Criteria 6.2 and 6.3).
294	Natural reserves and retentions (Criterion 6.4).
295	Sites and features of cultural significance (Criterion 3.3).
296	The level of detail in the Woodland Grant Scheme or Management Plan should reflect the scale of the forest, the sensitivity of the site and the intensity and impact of the operations planned.
297	Where a management plan for part of the forest management unit is in preparation but not yet complete no operations which would have a significant long-term impact are carried out.
298	The process of Management planning has identified the uniquely valuable characteristics of each individual forest or wood, and has prescribed treatments that will conserve and enhance these special qualities.
299	There is a local consultation at least once every 5 years on the Management Plan, as prescribed under Principle 4.
300	Monitoring and Revision (Criterion 7.2)
301	The Management Plan is being adequately implemented with:	Woodland Grant Scheme or Management Plan plus monitoring information in Criterion 8.1.
302	・ Close correlation between the plan, management procedures and operations on the ground.	Field inspection, focusing on:
303	・ Sound justification for any deviations.	・ Restocking areas.
304	・ A rate of progress that will allow a reasonable degree of completion within the time period of the plan.	・ Harvesting sites.
305	・ No backlog of costly, difficult or unprofitable operations.	・ Pest control and exclusion of livestock. ・ Treatment of sites identified in Criteria 3.3 and 6.2.
306	The Woodland Grant Scheme or Management Plan is renewed or reviewed at least every 5 years. New plans reflect scientific and technical advances, as well as the results of monitoring and the experience of implementing management in that forest.
307	PRINCIPLE 8: MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT Monitoring shall be conducted - appropriate to the scale and intensity of forest management to assess the condition of the forest, yields of forest products, chain of custody, management activities and their social and environmental impacts.
308	Appropriate Level of Monitoring (Criterion 8.1, 8.2 and 10.8)
309	Forest managers monitor, (i.e. observe and record):	Annual reports or other general reporting documents.
310	・ The extent and details of management operations implemented (particularly any modifications from work planned).	Monitoring records (e.g. photographs, plot data, compartment database, written notes).
311	・ Responses to such operations.	Correlation with observations made during field inspection.
312	・ Any significant natural developments.	Action taken to counteract unexpected and undesired responses.
313	Such records are kept in a form that ensures that they are of use over the long-term and are passed on with the forest when the owners or managers change in the future.
314	The level of detail and means of monitoring are appropriate to the size of the enterprise, the intensity of operations, the objectives of management and the sensitivity of the site.
315	An assessment is produced at the end of each 5-year period that includes an appropriate amount of information on:
316	a)　 Harvested Yield:
317	・ Quantity of timber produced.
318	・ Areas thinned, selectively felled, clear felled and coppiced.
319	b)　 Growth:
320	・ Area and species regenerated.
321	・ Changes in species composition or structure of stands.
322	・ Changes in age class distribution.
323	c)　 Flora and Fauna:
324	・ Increase or decrease of rare, notable or widely recognised species.
325	・ Spread of invasive species.
326	d)　 Environmental and social impacts:
327	・ The appearance of the forest in the landscape.
328	・ Changes to sites and features of particular cultural significance to local people.
329	・ Changes in the levels or types of social benefits, such as access and employment.
330	・ Changes in the wider environmental impact of the forest.
331	Baseline data is recorded at the outset for each of the aspects listed above to enable the changes to be assessed.
332	Use of Monitoring Data (Criteria 8.4 and 8.5)
333	Any discrepancies between outcomes (i.e. yields, growth, ecological changes, etc.) and expectations (i.e. plans, forecasts, anticipated impacts, etc.) are appraised and taken into account in preparing the next plan. Expert advice has been sought where necessary and heeded.	5-yearly Monitoring Report. Comparison of monitoring information with 5-year plan. Evidence of manager's awareness and use of monitoring information in revising management plan.
334	A summary of work completed and other major changes in the forest is made available for public inspection at least every 5 years and preferably during consultation on the Management Plan.
335	Chain of Custody (Criterion 8.3)
336	Harvesting and timber sales documentation enables each forest product to be traced from the forest to the initial point of sale - but not beyond. These documents show: product, quantity, date of production/removal, forest or wood of origin, FSC Licence No, initial destination and individuals/companies involved in harvesting, sale, purchase and transport from the forest.	Existing Quality Assurance Certificate. Harvesting output records for employed staff. Harvesting Contractors' invoices. Despatch or Delivery Notes. Haulier's invoices. Timber sales invoices.
337	Documentation allows reconciliation with harvesting prescriptions given in the Management Plan.
338	PRINCIPLE 9: MAINTENANCE OF NATURAL FORESTS Primary forests, well-developed secondary forests and sites of major environmental, social or cultural significance shall be conserved. Such areas shall not be replaced by tree plantations or other land uses.
339	This Principle applies to:
340	・ Ancient semi-natural woodland.
341	・ Semi-natural woodland which has colonised or been planted onto ex-agricultural land.	Clearance of secondary semi-natural woodland to restore valuable habitats is covered under Criterion 10.5 below. (line 392).
342	・ Plantations on ancient woodland sites which retain ancient woodland characteristics.	Plantations on ancient woodland sites which have lost their semi-natural characteristics are treated as per other plantations.
343	Conservation of Semi-Natural Woodland (Criteria 9.1 and 9.2)
344	The relevant parts of the Forestry Authority Guidelines and Forest Practice Guides are applied to all Semi-natural Woodland and all Plantations on Ancient Woodland Sites which have retained many of their semi-natural characteristics.	Field inspection of semi-natural stands which are subject to management.
345	Seed of local origin is used wherever it is available and considered appropriate for planting or restocking of native species. Forestry Authority guidance on seed sources for native pinewoods is followed.
346	Restoration of Semi-Natural Forest (Criterion 10.5)
347	Plantations located on ancient woodland sites are managed in a manner that retains and enhances their semi-natural characteristics:	Woodland Grant Scheme - thinning and restocking proposals for PAWS. Field inspection of PAWS undergoing management operations.
348	・ Thinnings are of sufficient intensity and frequency to maintain the understorey and ground flora
349	・ The understorey is not avoidably damaged during thinnings
350	・ When restocking, a discrete part of the stand is restored to native species alone.
351	・ Restocking techniques facilitate incorporation of natural regeneration and coppice regrowth.
352	・ The species composition of the semi-natural component reflects the range of species that would naturally occur on that site.
353	An average reduction in the canopy cover of exotic species on ancient woodland sites of at least 10% in the first 10 year period is concentrated on sites of greatest potential biodiversity gain. (e.g. A woodland with 70% exotic species is modified over 10 years to 60% exotic species.)	On plantations where exotic species dominate (i.e. > 50%), they are reduced during any thinning and felling operations. Where exotics are only a minor component of the canopy (i.e. < 50% of the canopy) the site is restocked with only native species after felling.
354		This is achieved through ・ Woodland Grant Scheme (or other planning document): ・ Felling and restocking proposals. ・ Selection criteria for thinnings. ・ Harvest and thinning contracts.
355	.
356		Interviews with management, field staff or contractors.
357	Exotic species may be retained where they have a high ecological or cultural value.	Field inspection.
358	PRINCIPLE 10: PLANTATIONS Plantations shall be planned and managed in accordance with Principles 1-9, and Principle 10 and its criteria. While plantations can provide an array of social and economic benefits, and can contribute to satisfying the world's need for forest products, they should complement the management of, reduce pressures on, and promote the restoration and conservation of natural forests.
359	Diversity and Design (Criteria 10.2 and 10.3)
360	The potential environmental impacts of afforestation have been assessed, in a manner appropriate to the scale of operations and sensitivity of the site and in addition to Environmental Appraisals required by law for larger schemes:	EAs, Design Plan, Woodland Grant Scheme and specific reports.
361	・ Brief environmental appraisals are prepared for smaller schemes in sensitive locations. These focus on the issues of particular relevance, for example their historical, hydrological or ecological value.
362	The results of these assessments have been incorporated into the proposals, through modification and mitigation measures, in order to minimise adverse impacts.
363	Existing plantations are being actively restructured, in accordance with the principles and recommendations of the Forestry Authority Landscape Design Guidelines and other Forestry Authority guidance.	Forest Design Plan and field inspection of felling and planting sites.
364	Co-operation has been sought with adjoining forest owners to try to ensure that the restructuring of one forest complements, and does not jeopardise, the improvement of adjoining ones.	Evidence of Forest Manager's contact with neighbours and awareness of their plans. Feedback from neighbouring owner/manager, if considered necessary.
365	New plantations are designed and located in ways that enhance and do not detract from the visual, cultural and ecological value and character of the wider landscape. In particular, new plantations are not located where they are likely to have significant adverse impacts on valuable semi-natural habitats.	Design Plan for new planting.
366	New plantations contribute to the conservation of nearby semi-natural woodland and other habitats and, where possible, have:
367	・ Utilised seed or natural regeneration from nearby existing woodland.
368	・ Created corridors from the existing woodland into the plantation.
369	・ Established buffers around existing woodland.
370	・ Provided complementary habitats.
371	・ Avoided fragmentation of adjacent habitats.
372	・ Involved seeking co-operation with adjoining landowners where major changes are planned.
373	New planting is designed in such a way as to facilitate the creation over time of a diverse age structure.　In areas > 20ha no more than 25% of the area is likely to mature in any one 5 year period.	Design Plan and Woodland Grant Scheme.
374		This is achieved through one or more of the following: ・ Use of a diversity of species, clones and provenances. ・ Planting mixed stands. ・ Variation in site types and growth rates. ・ Phased planting. ・ Retention of open ground.
375
376
377
378
379	Species Selection for Plantations (Criteria 10.4 and 10.8)
380	The species chosen for plantations are suited to the site and matched to the objectives. Native species are preferred. Exotic species are only used where they will substantially out-perform native species in terms of meeting the objectives of plantations.	Planting plan. Contracts and plant orders for past plantings. Certificates of Seed Origin for Registered species.
381	The proportions of different types of species are as follows. The forest design plan shows how these percentages will be achieved.	This aspect will be carefully monitored by FSC.
382	・ <65% Primary species.
383	・ >20% Secondary species.
384	・ >5% Native broadleaf.
385	・ >10% Open space.
386	Where only one commercial species is adapted to the site:
387	・ < 75% Primary species.
388	・ >10% Open area.
389	・ >5% Native broadleaf.
390	・ >10% Actively managed for biodiversity.
391	Results of national monitoring and research on the health and ecological impacts of exotic species are heeded and complemented by forest-level plant health assessments.
392	Restoration of Semi-Natural Habitats (Criterion 10.5)
393	Valuable semi-natural habitats (e.g. moorland, heathland and grassland) that have been colonised, planted, or incorporated into plantations, but which have retained their ecological characteristics, (or have a high potential to be restored), are being restored or treated in a manner that does not lead to further loss of biodiversity or cultural value:	Identification of such areas in ecological appraisal. Proposals for such areas in Woodland Grant Scheme. Field inspection of such areas.
394	・ Rides and glades containing remnant semi-natural communities are widened and extended.
395	・ Areas with a rich ground flora and shrub layer are heavily thinned.
396	・ Remnants of wood pasture or other 'open-forest' habitat are gradually opened up.
397	・ Heathland, bog and other open habitats are recreated by premature felling without restocking.
398	Felling of part or all of an area within a forest management unit and restoration of the area to non-forest land is carried out only where all of the following criteria are satisfied:	Management Plan.
399	・ The new land use will be ecologically more valuable than the plantation or the removal of the plantation constitutes an improvement in the landscape or cultural/archaeological features.
400	・ The change is not highly unpopular.
401	Protection of Plantations (Criterion 10.7)
402	The risk of plantations being damaged by wind, fire, pests and diseases is kept to a minimum through careful management, which includes:
403	・ Robust and well-researched planting design and restructuring plans.
404	・ Creation of a diverse forest, in terms of ages, species and open ground.
405	・ Sensitive and careful implementation of silvicultural operations.
406	・ Measures to prevent abuse of the forest by people.
406	・ Preparation of a fire plan.