The overall problem with which this thesis is concerned is the alternative uses to which the woodlands of Surrey can be put. At present the majority of the woodlands are not managed in any way. The alternative uses considered were agriculture, amenity, including conservation and recreation, and forestry. The evaluation of these uses was carried out in the following manner. 1 The suitability of each use was assessed with respect to the requirements of each use. 2 A comparison was made of the benefits and inputs required for each use. 3 Finally, the evaluation was made giving consideration to the physical, economic and social factors of Surrey and the UK. To carry out this evaluation ten topics emerged as requiring detailed investigation; 1 Geographical setting and identification of the main site types in Surrey. 2 The characteristics of the woodlands in Surrey. 3 The characteristics of agriculture in Surrey. A Requirements for forestry operations. 5 The potential for increased timber production in Surrey. 6 UK and World timber supply and demand. 7 Legal framework for forestry in the UK. 8 Agriculture and the development of Surrey's woodlands. 9 The amenity value of the woodlands in Surrey. 10 The marketing of timber. Having made the evaluation of the alternative uses of woodland in Surrey the conclusion is that timber production would be the optimum use. The following are the important factors which emerged in favour of this argument. 1 There will be a rise in the real price of timber and the UK will need to increase its domestic output of timber. 2 The amenity use of Surrey's woodlands involves a high opportunity cost. 3 Surrey's woodlands can play a role in increasing the volume of home grown timber.