Landowners play an important role in managing the landscape of the Kent Downs. From the large areas of land owned and managed for conservation and public access by organisations such as the National Trust, Woodland Trust and Kent Wildlife Trust, to private landowers whose farming practices shape the Kent Downs. To find out more about the role of private landowners in the management of the Kent Downs join a local farmer on a farm walk. Farmers and land owners are represented on the AONB Joint Advisory Committee and Executive through individuals and the National Farmers Union and Country Land and Business Association.

Wood Lotting
Wood Lotting is the dividing up of woodland areas into private individual ownership. A study has been undertaken by Land Use Consultants to look at the extent of wood lotting in Kent, its effects and the issues and opportunities it raises.

Kent is one of the most wooded counties in England. The character of the County owes much to its woodlands. Kent also has one of the largest areas of ancient woodland of any county in England with in excess of 29,600 hectares of ancient woodland. This makes up 57% of Kent’s total woodland resource.

As the terrestrial habitat most representative of the original, natural, stable environmental conditions of the UK, ancient woodland is home to more threatened species than any other habitat in the UK including woodland birds and butterflies. Ancient woodlands are vital landscape features and a cultural resource imbued with history. They are part of the Kent countryside and much enjoyed by local people.

Remaining ancient woodlands cover less than 2% of the UK, and are effectively irreplaceable.