Individuals, land managers, local authorities, the voluntary sector and community groups across Scotland are all being asked their views on how best to take forward woodland expansion in Scotland.
The call to gather views comes from Dr Andrew Barbour, the chairman of the Woodland Expansion Advisory Group.
This 18-strong group of farmers, foresters, conservation, community and land experts, has been tasked with the job of providing Scottish Ministers with advice on identifying which types of land are best for tree planting.
Dr Barbour said: “One clear message from the Group is a desire to gather as many views as possible from a wide range organisations and individuals.
“We want to find out what others think are the opportunities for woodland expansion and what might be stopping it.
“We need to identify key areas of conflict over land use and importantly why the current regulations and consultation mechanisms do not prevent problems arising. We also need to hear as many practical and constructive ideas as possible on how we might overcome them.
“There are many organisations or groups out there that have first-hand experience of these issues and their views or suggestions would be very welcome.”
The public is being asked to send in any views by 6th January 2012. Further information can be found at the Commission’s Woodland Expansion Advisory Group website.
A series of stakeholder meetings to discuss emerging proposals will also be organised around the country in the Spring next year.