Pines, Profits, and Pastures: A Case Study of Conifer Woodland Integration on a South Scotland Farm

How one farming Family Turned Trees into Treasure and Diversified Their Farming Future

Introduction

If you had told one farming family ten years ago that their sheep & cattle would one day co-exist with a thriving forest of Scots pine, Douglas fir, and spruce on the rolling hills of their South Scotland farm, they might have laughed you off the property. Yet today, their land is a living tapestry of green—a testament to how diverse commercial conifer woodlands can blend with traditional farming to spark new opportunities, boost resilience, and bring a sense of fun to rural life.

Family Farms: A Setting Ripe for Change

The farm lies at the gateway to Galloway, nestled in the Southern Uplands. Traditionally, the operation focused on sheep & Cattle grazing and a few acres of barley, like many of their neighbours. Yet as markets changed and weather patterns became less predictable and family succession is considered, the family began to consider options to future-proof their enterprise.

“Diversification” became the watchword. Other enterprises were hatched, a self-catering cottage was built, but the big leap came with a government-backed woodland creation scheme that offered funding and advice for planting commercial woodland on marginal land.

Planting the Seeds: Why Conifers?

The farmers, guided by Newleaf, chose to plant a mix of species:

·       Scots pine for its hardiness and local heritage

·       Douglas fir for high-value timber potential

·       Norway spruce for rapid growth and carbon capture

·       Native broadleaf species to add diversity and wildlife value

The plan wasn’t to blanket the land in monoculture, but to create a patchwork of woodland blocks, shelterbelts, and wildlife corridors—each with their own commercial potential, formation of new tracks and field boundaries and environmental benefits. Working with NewLeaf as forest managers, were able to access government grants for tree planting and new woodland creation.

Implementation: The Great Planting Adventure

In spring 2019, the family turned a underutilised, rush-infested twelve hectares into a busy planting site. Guided by NewLeaf, With help from local contractors, they planted over 25,000 new trees.

Early challenges included:

·       Keeping the stock from munching the baby trees

·       Working out access routes for future harvesting and farming activities

·       Ensuring the trees were spaced for both timber quality and wildlife movement

There were muddy boots, spectacular sunrises, waterproofs  and a lot of laughter.

Commercial Prospects: Counting the Timber (and More)

While the woodland is still young, the business is already thinking ahead. Tom and the team mapped out a 30-year harvesting plan, predicting:

·       Premium Douglas fir logs for construction

·       Marketable spruce for fencing and woodfuel

·       Potential for small-scale Christmas tree sales along the farm track

What’s more, the woodland is pulling its weight well before the first timber harvest. The farm now attracts income from:

·       Woodland creation grants and annual support schemes

·       Retained areas of selective grazing, as stock begin to thrive in the sheltered glades

·       Nature tourism— The diversification is forming the foundation for further diversifications with guided walks, birdwatching, and “forest bathing”being considered

Biodiversity Bonanza

It’s not just about timber and cash. The business has noticed:

·       More songbirds, including crossbills and siskins

·       Red squirrels making cautious returns

·       A dramatic increase in wildflowers along woodland edges

Their small “wet patch” has evolved into a pond ringed by  native broad leaf trees, hosting frogs, newts, and ranging deer. A local chap has also set up a few bee hives on the woodland fringe with his honey sold locally and gifted to visitors.

Community Roots and Lasting Legacy

Its hoped that in time the woodland areas can offer spaces for School children as they come to visit the farming enterprises. This new knowledge base will be transferred to students from the farm and Newleaf learning about where food comes from and how woodlands play and integral part to that process and what they mean to the wider ecosystem.

Looking ahead, the business plans to:

·       Experiment with forest schooling and outdoor education partnerships

·       Trial truffle-inoculated pines for gourmet fungi harvesting

Lessons Learned: Advice for Fellow Farmers

Here are the family’s top tips for anyone considering a leap into commercial diverse conifer woodland in Scotland:

·       Start small and mix it up: A diversity of species spreads risk and enhances wildlife value.

·       Think access: Well-planned tracks make life easier for future you (and your tractor).

·       Get the community involved: Local schools, neighbours, and wildlife groups can all add value—and fun.

·       Enjoy the process: There will be setbacks (sheep will always find a way!), but there’s real joy in watching a new landscape take root.

Conclusion

From wind-swept pasture to a bustling patchwork of trees and opportunities, this family farm’s woodland journey is a shining example of how commercial conifers can breathe new life—and new income—into a traditional agricultural landscape. As the woodland grows, so does the sense of optimism, resilience, and community spirit. If you find yourself in the same position and want to see how woodlands can add to your farming operation, why not give NewLeaf a shout for a no obligation chat.