| Abstract
| - Based on the 1980 Census, the distribution, composition and ownership of woodland in Devon is described. A large proportion of privately-owned woodland is not under formal management and much of this is of coppice origin. Although of indifferent timber quality, these woods are considered important features of the landscape particularly in relation to the Dartmoor National Park. Assessment of small woods and park trees suggests a deficiency of young oak and an increase in colonising broadleaved species. Over much of the county the physical conditions are suited to the growth of exotic conifers and plantations of these are capable of the economic production of high quality saw timber to satisfy local and other markets. The scope for expansion is limited however and the future of much of the broadleaved woodland depends on the attitudes adopted by their owners and the local authorities together with the grant aid available.
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