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Barr Farm
In Scotland’s Dumfries-shire, a forward-thinking woodland creation project at Barr Farm is delivering lasting environmental and social value. Planted in 2011, this Woodland Carbon Code-validated scheme is expected to sequester over 5,400 tonnes of CO₂ over 50 years, while supporting biodiversity, public access and sustainable timber production.
At Barr Farm, near Sanquhar in Dumfries-shire, native and productive woodland has been established to deliver a broad range of ecological, social and economic benefits. Covering two distinct compartments, the project blends native upland woodland with a productive conifer plantation.
The woodlands were designed with a clear vision: to create shelter, protect soil and watercourses, enhance biodiversity, and provide long-term resources such as timber, fuel and non-wood products. Over time, they are set to support an expanding range of plant and animal life, helping to build ecological resilience across the local landscape.
Access and amenity were also central to the project’s design. The woodlands are open to the public in line with the Scottish Outdoor Access Code, offering spaces for nature study, quiet recreation and scenic enjoyment. Their presence brings colour, texture and structure to the surrounding farmland, while improving visual screening of nearby woodland blocks.
Thanks go to those who supported the establishment of this multifunctional woodland, which now stands as an example of how well-designed planting can deliver for people, wildlife and the climate.
Certified under the Woodland Carbon Code, the UK’s government-backed standard for carbon-funded woodland creation.
2024
2010
Species mix
0%
Sitka Spruce
0%
Ash
0%
Birch
0%
*Other
*Native broadleaves
Co-benefits
Learning opportunities
Woodlands can provide outdoor classrooms and hands‑on learning opportunities for schools, community groups, and environmental training programmes.
Flood resilience
Trees help slow water flow, reduce flood risk downstream, and improve catchment health.
Farmer resilience
Shelterbelts and woodland planting protect livestock from extreme weather, enhance soil health, and boost long‑term agricultural productivity.
Biodiversity uplift
The woodland’s mix of native trees creates diverse habitats, supporting a growing range of plant and animal life as it matures.
Our involvement
This was one of the earliest projects to go through the Woodland Carbon Code, and an important milestone for both the landowner and Forest Carbon. Our early involvement, trusted partnership, and hands-on support helped set it up for long-term success.
Step 1
Provided early investment
We funded this project six months before the Woodland Carbon Code even existed, because we believed in its potential. This early commitment gave the landowner financial certainty and reduced their upfront risk at a critical stage. Forest Carbon pioneered this kind of pre-validation investment in the UK.
Step 2
Guided successful certification
We led the project through one of the first Woodland Carbon Code validations, managing documentation, data, and process to ensure full compliance and timely approval.
Step 3
Connected values with action
We sold the carbon inventory to one of our earliest buyers, BWOC, managing the full contracting and transaction process. Their investment unlocked funding for the next generation of nature-based projects.
Step 4
Ensured long-term success
Our involvement continues through managing the ongoing Woodland Carbon Code verification process, helping safeguard the project’s climate and biodiversity impact for years to come.
Project status
Registered
Aiming for verification, but planting and verification are yet to occur.
Validated
Planted. An initial quality check has been carried out by a third party.
Verified
Meets Code standards, verified by an accredited assessor. Ongoing checks ahead.
Funded by
Want to back a project like Barr Farm?
Barr Farm was made possible by businesses and land managers working together to restore UK nature. If your business is looking to make a similar impact, explore the projects it can support today.
