- Work with us
- Land stewards
Land stewards
- Businesses & individualsBusinesses & individuals
- CollaboratorsCollaborators
- Our projects
- About us
- Resources
Bowshiel Wood
Bowshiel is a family-led restoration project in Scotland, transforming land back into ancient oakwood. By planting native species, this project is rejuvenating biodiversity, supporting protected species, and creating new green space.
Bowshiel, located near the coast in the Scottish Borders, is a transformative project focused on restoring ancient oakwood. The 8-hectare site was cleared of non-native trees and scrub to allow native oaks to reclaim the valley, extending an oakwood that had retreated higher up the landscape. In the gaps, new trees were planted to boost the ecosystem and unlock carbon funding.
Since its establishment in 2019, Bowshiel has become home to 36 protected species, including rare bats, tree-nesting birds, and fritillary butterflies. The woodland has also seen a rise in the number of field layer plants such as bluebells. This restoration project enhances local biodiversity while providing critical environmental benefits like rainwater interception and filtration for the nearby burn.
The owners of Bowshiel also encourage public engagement with nature by hosting activities like foraging, tree planting, and outdoor feasts, offering the community opportunities for team-building, recreation, or simply a peaceful day out.
Set to sequester over 5,000 tonnes of CO₂ over 100 years, according to our Woodland Carbon Code-validated calculations, Bowshiel stands as a successful example of ecological restoration, delivering lasting environmental and community benefits. Special thanks go to everyone who supported this vital project.
Certified under the Woodland Carbon Code, the UK’s government-backed standard for carbon-funded woodland creation.
2024
2019
Species mix
0%
Oak
0%
Birch
0%
Rowan
0%
*Other
*Native broadleaves
Co-benefits
Diversified income
The Bowshiel project offers income opportunities through eco-tourism and outdoor events, such as foraging, tree planting, and outdoor feasts, providing a sustainable revenue stream for the landowners.
Biodiversity uplift
By restoring native oakwood, Bowshiel enhances local biodiversity, supporting 36 protected species, including bats, birds, and the rare fritillary butterfly, while increasing the diversity of field layer plants like bluebells.
Public green space
Bowshiel offers accessible green space for the local community, hosting outdoor experiences that encourage a deeper connection with nature and promote well-being through recreational activities.
Habitat conservation
This project conserves and extends ancient oakwood habitats, connecting fragmented areas of woodland and providing essential shelter and food sources for local wildlife, ensuring their long-term survival.
Water quality
Bowshiel’s woodland restoration improves water quality by intercepting and filtering rainwater for the nearby burn, helping prevent soil erosion and maintaining healthy watercourses for the surrounding ecosystem.
Our involvement
Bowshiel showcases how upfront investment, flexible funding structures, and long-term collaboration can help landowners unlock the full potential of woodland creation. Forest Carbon supported the Tomlyn family from early planning through to successful credit sale.
Step 1
Assessed the project’s potential
When the Tomlyns approached us, we began by assessing the site’s suitability for Woodland Carbon Code certification. We reviewed its features, mapped out long-term carbon potential, and confirmed the project’s viability.
Step 2
Provided early investment
Before validation or credit issuance, we committed to purchasing a portion of the anticipated carbon units. This gave the landowners early financial certainty and reduced their upfront risk. Forest Carbon pioneered this ‘pre-validation’ funding model in the UK.
Step 3
Offered additional flexibility
Several months later, we extended our investment to include the remaining carbon units. The agreement also included a share of future profits from resale, offering the landowners both early revenue and longer-term upside.
Step 4
Guided the project to certification
We worked with the Tomlyns and an independent certifier to gather the documentation and data required for Woodland Carbon Code validation. Our experience ensured the process was smooth, efficient, and met all necessary standards.
Step 5
Connected with a like-minded buyer
Once the carbon units were issued, we helped bring the project to market and facilitated its full sale to Oxbury Bank in early 2024. Forest Carbon managed the contracting process and ensured a seamless handover.
Step 6
Supporting long-term delivery
Our role continues as we manage the project’s ongoing verification responsibilities under the Woodland Carbon Code, helping ensure it delivers on its climate and environmental promises for years to come.
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.
Bowsheil owner, Hedley Tomlyn, shares the vision behind Bowshiel, detailing the goals for the woodland and the tangible impact that carbon funding has had in bringing the project to life.
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 Bowshiel?
Bowshiel 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.
