Trees on Farm guide launches with support from King Charles III

The guide, written with Geraint Richards OBE MVO FICFor, head forester to the Duchy of Cornwall and to His Majesty, shares stories from farmers across the UK who are proving how trees can boost farm profitability whilst improving resilience against the climate crisis.

The author argues that there are multiple benefits that trees can offer to farm businesses. They provide vital shelter for livestock from harsh winds and shade during increasingly hot summers, reducing stress and improving animal welfare.

Trees enhance biodiversity, support natural pest control and improve soil health through deeper roots that help with drainage and reaching nutrients. They also offer new income streams through timber, fruit and nuts, whilst helping farms access environmental funding schemes.

Featured in the guide are Bruce and Jane Mackie, Aberdeenshire farmers who have transformed their 240-hectare organic mixed dairy farm through strategic tree planting over 25 years. They initially planted trees in awkward field corners, gradually building a connected network of small woodlands across their farm, which now benefits from more biodiversity, reduced soil erosion and healthier livestock.

Their experience also shows the profound personal meaning trees can hold for farming families. Mr Mackie explained: “We have woods the same age as our two boys.

“They mark milestones in our lives. What I find exciting about tree planting is that with neighbouring farmers joining in to plant small areas, the cumulative effect is much greater. This will bring benefits for wildlife and change the look of the countryside for the better.”

‘Supporting productive agriculture that works in harmony with nature’

Mr Mackie is chairman of Sma Wids, an Aberdeenshire initiative inspired by His Majesty. The initiative has also been supported by The Royal Countryside Fund to help 40 farmers plant woodlands up to 0.25 hectares in underutilised areas of land.

By providing practical support, the initiative is improving biodiversity across the region whilst showing how farmers working together can create far-reaching environmental benefits.

Keith Halstead, executive director of The Royal Countryside Fund, said: “Right now, family farms face social, environmental and economic pressures that threaten their existence. Trees offer a practical way forward, not through a complete land-use change, but by integrating them thoughtfully within existing farming systems.

“As His Majesty The King envisioned when he founded The Royal Countryside Fund, our aim is to support productive agriculture that works in harmony with nature. This guide shows family farms how trees can strengthen their businesses, improve resilience to weather extremes and create lasting legacies for future generations.

“At a time when farming families are in urgent need of support, we believe agroforestry presents a real opportunity to help them thrive.”

This publication was produced thanks to funding from players of the People’s Postcode Lottery and the Royal Warrant Holders’ Charity.

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