Forestry contractors bringing even more to that table
Every year Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) helps to support around 72 different suppliers in the forestry contracting sector that assist in the delivery of a range of functions and services.
From planting and woodland creation to harvesting and from wildlife management to invasive species control, small businesses across the country are vital to FLS’ sustainable forestry, conservation and economic aims.
Thanks to the Scottish Government introducing statutory community benefits requirements, some of the highest-demand contractors are delivering even more through training and employing local young people and helping to address a critical skills shortage.
Claire Guerin, FLS’ Environment Programme Manager, said;
“Since 2023, we have been working with six specialist suppliers delivering peatland restoration at several locations across Scotland.
“It’s a challenging area because the few contractors with the knowledge, skill and equipment to carry out the work have been in high demand.
“To address this skills shortage and to increase workforce capacity, our contracts now include an element of support that has enabled businesses in this field to take on local young people, provide work experience and provide further training for existing employees.
“So far, 21 staff have benefited from up-skilling or specialist training.”
Across the supply chain, suppliers have provided at least one formal work placement, multiple unpaid work‑shadowing opportunities, and two apprentices. Two new operators have been employed and 10 more trained for peatland restoration roles.
Training has included accredited training such as NPTC qualifications, Peatland ACTION specialist peatland operator conversion training, first aid certification, ATV qualifications, and practical training in techniques such as drain blocking and wave damming.
Suppliers have also actively participated in, and in some cases delivered, Peatland ACTION training events, collectively reaching over 100 wider sector attendees, extending benefits beyond their own workforce.
Claire added;
“Suppliers have also supported school engagement activities, hosted international and cross‑sector knowledge exchange visits, supported volunteering and collaborative training with partner organisations, and in one instance has made a significant financial donation to a local community and sponsorship.
“Together, these activities demonstrate that the peatland restoration programme is delivering lasting social and economic value alongside environmental outcomes, directly supporting the growth of a skilled, resilient, and locally based peatland restoration workforce.
Notes to editors
- Forestry and Land Scotland (FLS) manages forests and land owned by Scottish Ministers in a way that supports and enables economically sustainable forestry; conserves and enhances the environment; delivers benefits for people and nature; and supports Scottish Ministers in their stewardship of Scotland's national forests and land.
- Media enquiries to media@forestryandland.gov.scot