Farm Diversification

There are few specific established markets for short-rotation biomass products. Local firewood merchants and home wood-burning stoves are the most likely users.

Large-scale chipwood burners are common in Scandinavia and may have a future in this country, depending on the scale of timber production.

The potential of SRC for energy and electricity production is increasing. Particle board producers' demand varies, depending on availability of wind-blown timber and forestry residues.

An investigation of local craft industries may find a further outlet for the timber.

Land:
Approximately 1 - 2 ha will be needed to service the average farmhouse boiler. Marginal arable/improved grassland and set-aside land is one possibility. Also, wet/poorer quality areas will support some species.

The selection of the right species for a given site is essential, a large number of willow and poplar clones are available. Storage area for timber - air-drying for at least 6 months is recommended.

Machinery:
On a small scale, harvesting will be done by chainsaw. Biomass harvesters for large-scale plantations are currently being developed in the UK.

Also a chipper, if required, and some means of transporting the product. Under-cover storage if possible.

Cost of cuttings (10,000 per ha @ 15p)

Ground preparation and planting (£300/ha)

Fencing - rabbit - £3.50/m - deer - £5.50/m

Initial weed control (£150/ha)

Capital costs are reduced in subsequent years because cuttings can be supplied from existing plantings. Some type of fencing will be necessary in most cases.

Weed control is essential in Years 1 and 2 (approx. cost £150/ha).

Cutting-back shoots after Year 1 is recommended to encourage higher yields (approx. cost £230/ha).

Fence and drain maintenance.

• Early years of negative cash flow (may continue through life-span of crop).
• Lack of developed markets and marketing systems.
• Rust disease may severely reduce productivity of willows.
• Other sources of fuel currently cheaper.

Various general woodland courses being run, eg local agricultural colleges, ATB Landbase, FWAG.

Topics include planting and maintenance, chainsaw operation, coppicing techniques.

Through the Scottish Rural Development Programme (SRDP) 2007-2013 funding is now available for rural businesses throughout Scotland for diversification and renewable energy projects. Specifically, support is delivered through Rural Development Contracts – Rural Priorities which was launched in April 2008. For further information about what support is available see the Section on Rural Development Contracts – Rural Priorities.