In 1992 Assynt Crofters’ Trust purchased the North Assynt Estate in north-west Sutherland on behalf of the community and a strong interest in the natural assets of the property has developed. These include extensive areas of native woodland, dominated by birch, which also occur on adjoining estates and these woods have been neglected and little studied for many years. This project enabled a programme of fieldwork to be carried out to survey the woodlands, in particular comparing their present extent with that mapped by John Hume in 1774. This study has attempted to establish the reasons for the changes in composition and extent of the woodland since that time as well as making recommendations for future management needed to ensure its future. Proposals have also been made for enhancing in the widest sense the value of this resource for the local community. This is summarised in a report that is available from the MFS Trust or the Assynt Crofters Trust.