The English Biodiversity Strategy was launched by the RT Hon Margaret Beckett MP, Secretary of State for the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, on 24 October 2002. 

Clearly stating that the Government will 'Take measures to prevent loss or damage to ancient woodland and trees, and their uniquely rich biodiversity, from development.', this strategy is a major step forward for ancient trees. 

The English Biodiversity Strategy is essentially made up of five main sectors, woodland and forestry being just one of these. Chapter 6 of Working with the Grain of Nature, along with Appendix 3, will be of special interest to anyone who is concerned about ancient trees. This chapter sets out a vision for the management of woodlands and forests and contains many references to ancient trees. Some of the objectives of special relevance to ancient trees include:

• Conservation and enhancement of woodland biodiversity, particularly that of ancient semi-natural woodland, veteran trees and wood pastures.
• Protection of woodland, especially ancient woodland and ancient trees from external threats such as those posed by industry, development, mineral extraction, pests, climate change and changes in land use.
• The increased recognition of the importance of ancient trees in other habitats e.g. on heathland or grassland. 

This newly launched Government strategy was prepared in partnership with a broad range of stakeholders in the public, voluntary and private sectors and makes biodiversity an important consideration in the management of urban, agricultural, woodland, marine and freshwater environments. As well as guiding the Government's and its partner's action, this Strategy seeks to involve society as a whole in the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity and to further increase public understanding of biodiversity issues. The England Biodiversity Group will oversee the Strategy's implementation, take stock of progress annually and publish a full report in 2006.

A copy of Working with the Grain of Nature can be downloaded as an Acrobat file from DEFRA's website at: http://www.defra.gov.uk/news/latest/2002/biodiversity.htm and hard copies are also available free of charge.