This report presents a comprehensive evaluation of the Forestry Grant Scheme (FGS) during the period it received funding from the European Commission.

An evaluation of the forestry grant scheme

• Appendix 1 – FGS Evaluation Framework
• Appendix 2 – Customer Experience Survey
• Appendix 3 – New Woodland Creation Survey
• Appendix 4 – Rumroy Survey Report
• Appendix 5 - FGS All Woodland Creation Options
• Appendix 6 - Map of Woodland Creation in Highland & Islands
• Appendix 7 - Map of Woodland Creation in Grampian
• Appendix 8 - Map of Woodland Creation in Perth and Argyll
• Appendix 9 - Map of Woodland Creation in Central Scotland
• Appendix 10 - Map of Woodland Creation in South Scotland

Designed to meet a wide range of needs and circumstances, the FGS offers multiple grant types that make forestry support accessible across the sector.

The evaluation highlights the scheme’s effectiveness in delivering public value, responding to sector needs, and supporting sustainable forestry practices across Scotland.

Key findings reveal a broad spectrum of positive impacts, not only within the forestry sector, but also for Scotland’s environment, economy, and communities. The report confirms that the FGS continues to be a vital tool in supporting responsible land management and rural development.

To complement the report, a suite of five short films has been produced. These showcase areas of the FGS beyond woodland creation, telling powerful stories of the scheme’s less visible but equally important contributions.

Discover the broader impacts of the Forestry Grant Scheme

The Forestry Grant Scheme (FGS) has been a cornerstone of forestry support in Scotland for the past decade and has helped deliver a wide range of environmental, economic, and social benefits across the country.

To accompany the publication of a new report An Evaluation of the Forestry Grant Scheme, we’ve produced a suite of short films that bring its wider benefits to life.

The report uncovered a range of positive outcomes enabled by forestry grants including improved woodland resilience, enhanced biodiversity, strengthened rural economies, and increased skills and capacity across the sector. 

These videos demonstrate that the FGS is about much more than tree planting. It supports people, communities, businesses, and nature.

Through real-life case studies, the five films showcase some of the scheme’s less visible yet far-reaching impacts. They highlight how individuals and organisations have used grant support to achieve their goals while contributing to Scotland’s broader environmental and economic ambitions.

Watch the videos and explore how the FGS is helping shape a more resilient and sustainable future for Scotland’s forests and communities.

Together, the report and videos illustrate the diverse benefits of the FGS and its role in supporting people, landscapes, and livelihoods.

Forestry Supports Scotland - Trailer

Watch this 53-second introduction to get a flavour of the video series.

Forestry supports Scotland’s Rainforest

Discover how the Woodland Grazing Grant is helping a Highland farm improve rare woodland and boost biodiversity.

Forestry supports Scotland’s Rural Economy

See how the Harvesting and Processing Grant is driving growth at a rural sawmill —creating jobs and strengthening supply chains.

Forestry supports Scotland’s Biodiversity

Explore how grant funding is protecting iconic species like Black Grouse and Capercaillie on a Scottish estate.

Forestry Supports Scotland’s Urban Communities

Learn how grants are transforming a city park — enhancing biodiversity and supporting community wellbeing.

Forestry supports Scotland’s Collaborative Land Management

Watch how an environmental charity is working with farmers to deliver natural flood management through the Cooperation Grant.