Borders Forest Trust
Borders Forest Trust [BFT] was established in 1996. Their aims are to protect and restore native woodlands and natural environments in the Scottish Borders for the benefit of people and wildlife. As part of its vision, the Trust works with local people to manage community woodlands. This helps to increase the conservation, recreational and educational value of their local woods.

In 2004, Borders Forest Trust (BFT) and Venlaw Community Woodland (VCW) group approached Scottish Borders Council (SBC) to request a 25 year management agreement over an area of Common Good woodland at Venlaw, Peebles.
This agreement between SBC and BFT was signed on 18^th April 2005.   A further agreement was signed between BFT and VCW to state that VCW would manage the woodland with technical assistance from BFT. 

BFT’s role within Venlaw Woodland is as a conduit between VCW and the long term management goals of the group.  BFT has the resources to assist VCW in such projects as grant applications and practical woodland management.

A Community Woodland Officer from BFT is nominated to liaise and work with VCW, plus, in addition to providing advice, gives practical, on-site support and assistance, frequently along with volunteers and trainees on programmes undertaken by BFT.  This assistance is invaluable and greatly appreciated by VCW Management Committee.

Peebles Gutterbluids Society
VCW is fortunate to have regular practical assistance from members of Peebles Gutterbluids Society, a small local group of volunteers who, for many years, have undertaken many practical and environmental projects in Peebles.  Additionally, the Gutterbluids Society has provided and maintained public benches on the open lower slope of Venlaw, in addition to litter picking and scrub clearance.  On the formation of VCW, the Society became a group member of the Community Woodland.  The practical support from the Gutterbluids Society is greatly appreciated and is acknowledged.