Forest Carbon at Bowshiel Oakwood Woodland creation


Bowshiel is an inspiring family-led project to restore an ancient oakwood in Southern Scotland. When the land was purchased, it was an overgrown, neglected former plantation of (mainly) non-native conifers. However, through years of hard work, the landowners and their children have felled non-native trees and cleared scrub to allow the ancient oakwood to re-colonise the valley. They manage the deer themselves and are responsible for almost all of the planting of new trees over successive planting seasons.

About this project


This new woodland extends the existing oakwood, which had retreated higher up the valley, and it is already having a marked benefit on the biodiversity of the area, with increased field layer flowers like bluebells coming through, as well as higher populations of insects and reptiles, including rare fritillary butterflies.

The woodland was shortlisted in the RSPB’s 2021 ‘Nature of Scotland Awards’ and more recently acknowledged as a local biodiversity site by the Scottish Borders Council. The landowner's continued focus on 'Nature Positivity' along this riparian habitat is supporting notable bat and tree-nesting bird populations, among its 36 protected species in residence. 

In addition, the owners seek to connect people with nature at their site - hosting days to give clients woodland experiences such as charcoal making, foraging and woodland lunches - perfect for prospective carbon buyers to host 'blue sky' events in the great outdoors.

Biodiversity uplift
Biodiversity uplift

This woodland will restore and rejuvenate habitats to support the increase and variety of flora and fauna in the area.

Diversified income for land owner
Diversified income for land owner

Land owners diversified their portfolio through the sale of carbon.  

Public access to green spaces
Public access to green spaces

Gates and paths make this project accessible to the public, improving access to green spaces for the surrounding community. Access to nature is proven to positively impact mental health and well-being.

Habitat conservation
Habitat conservation

This project supports the habitat of important species native to the areas.

Improved water quality
Improved water quality

By absorbing and/or filtering water, this project is helping to improve water quality in the surrounding and downstream area.

Oxbury Bank visits Bowshiel


Oxbury Bank helped to create this woodland by purchasing its entire bank of Woodland Carbon Code-certified carbon credits. “We really want to get behind and support British land owners and British farmers. Forest Carbon has played a vital role. They have matched us with the right partner, we’re really well aligned.” In this video, we follow them as they visit the woodland to learn about its backstory...

Species Mix

  • Birch
  • Oak
  • Rowan
  • Other Broadleaf

Forest Carbon at Bowshiel Oakwood

13,312 trees 9.64 hectares Spring 5,272 tonnes CO2

Hear the landowner's story


Proving it's possible to combine biodiversity uplift with economic sustainability, these landowners boldly trusted nature and are reaping the benefits. Watch their story here...


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