Forest Enterprise is the forest management arm of the Forestry Commission (FC). Interpretation is the domain of its Design & Interpretative Services unit (D&IS) based in Silvan House, Edinburgh. The unit is led by Bob Jones and has a pedigree stretching back to the mid 1970s when it was established to help develop the Commission's network of visitor centres throughout GB.

D&IS is responsible for the development of interpretative strategy and media across the FC estate in Scotland, England and Wales, although a staff of only 10 dictates that much of its work is centred on promoting standards, best practice and innovation.

'Interpretation' in the FC is taken to encompass information, orientation, environmental education, branding and marketing, as well as its more traditional association with heritage and 'added value' facilities. It is also considered to be first and foremost a management tool - the starting point for most interpretative planning being to address the key management issues facing forest staff in delivering benefits from the forest resources in their care. Interpretative programmes therefore can be involved in anything from industry health and safety, to plant health, to wildlife conservation, to healthy lifestyle, to sustainable tourism, to community benefit issues and much much more.

For further information on the Forestry Commission go to www.forestry.gov.uk
For further information on Design & Interpretative Services e-mail:bob.jones@forestry.gsi.gov.uk or call on 0131 314 6123.