UK Forests

• End of 19th century: UK forest cover decreased to under 10% after centuries of exploitation
• Forestry commission: planted fast growing exotic conifers e.g Sitka Spruce on moors of Wales, Scottish Highlands and Lake District
• Forest cover increased by 25% between 1870 and 1947 and by 50% between 1948 and 1995
• By 2020: 13% UK = forested with increased numbers of indigenous species planted