Short rotation coppice for energy: towards ecological guidelines

This paper reviews research into two key issues related to the ecology of short rotation coppice crops (SRC)—pest control and wildlife habitat provision. It argues that established SRC has a high economic threshold to pest damage and can be managed with few pesticide applications without compromising production considerations. Tolerating the presence of certain insects and other plants is in turn cited as the main reason why SRC, if appropriately located, has the potential to increase biodiversity in many farmland situations. Research into the wildlife use of SRC crops is reviewed and species lists presented for key groups. Summary guidelines for the enhancement of SRC production plantations as a wildlife habitat are given.