YORKSHIRE Water is backing an initiative to ensure that woodland is managed in an environmentally-friendly manner.

The company has adopted a system that confirms that all 4,274 acres of its woodland meet criteria laid down by the Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC).

Yorkshire Water catchment and recreation manager Geoff Lomas said: "Achieving FSC accreditation is a significant achievement for us.

"It is formal recognition that every inch of woodland we own today meets the exacting standards laid down by the FSC and that our management policies ensure there will still be forests to enjoy when our grandchildren are old and grey.

"The company's prime objective is to deliver clean, safe water to 4.5 million customers every day, but we hope achieving FSC accreditation indicates we take just as much care in our role as stewards of the countryside, wildlife, recreation, landscape and timber production."

Published: 12/04/2005