The aim of this report is to collate and review published and unpublished information regarding the planting and management of birch in order to produce the higher quality grades of timber plus a summary of the end-uses, products and marketing considerations relevant to this type of material.

Guidance is included relating to species and wood characteristics, uses and markets, the relative profitability of growing birch and also the potential for future utilisation of birch as a productive timber species.

Also included is a summary of known best practice relating to site and silvicultural characteristics, with particular regard to spacing and thinning recommendations. Regular and heavy thinning to hasten the onset of full and permanent crown release is crucial to producing higher quality timber.