Overview

The aim of the event is to provide participants with the fundamental knowledge required to understand why thinning of woodlands is good practise and how to thin, in accordance with UK best practise. Using site-based examples.

Objectives

At the end of the course, the participants should have an understanding of:

• The purpose of thinning;

• The basic information required before thinning;

• Thinning practice starting with first thinning

• Thinning types and intensities;

• Basic thinning planning;

• Thinning control;

Instructor

Chris Jones

Chris has nearly 40 years of experience in all aspects of forestry and woodland management with 35 years of that spent in Wales. Initially he worked for the Forestry Commission in S E Wales as a forester managing harvesting and restocking. Then he moved to Forest Research where he developed and managed projects to provide evidence and knowledge for the wider forest sector but especially the sector in Wales. Chris went on to lead the FR field-based teams in Wales and then act as a direct liaison role between FR and FC Wales ensuring the dissemination of information to FC Wales. Then when NRW was formed Chris continued the role as the forestry evidence and knowledge transfer specialist advisor.

During his time at FR Chris worked closely with forestry specialists across all aspects of silviculture and he increased his knowledge and gained experience in a wide range of subjects starting from the basics of environmental elements (soil, and climate) and tree physiology and how they can work together through silvicultural management to develop sustainable forests.

Chris has regularly provided technical silvicultural input at both indoor and outdoor events mainly run by the FC but also at events organised by the Institute of Chartered Foresters. Many of these events were practical and topic specific; covering areas of silviculture like “species diversity for climate adaptation”, “ground preparation and restocking’’, “weeding for establishment”, “transformation to alternative silvicultural systems”.

Chris continues to provide advice and support to a wide range of private sector foresters and forest management businesses including specific training events on matching ground preparation and species to sites. Chris has become the forester that other foresters in Wales contact when they have issues around tree establishment, species choice and wider silvicultural techniques as well as tree health problems.

Who should attend?

• Existing Forestry Works Managers

• Site Supervisors

• Team Leaders

• Managers within Forestry

• Forestry contractors wishing to understand their responsibilities on site

Cost (booking fee)

£160.00 + VAT per person

Please read our Terms & Conditions before booking.

Point of contact

If you have any issues booking this event please contact - info@focusonforestryfirst.co.uk

If you are having trouble paying using your Credit or Debit Card, please see our Quick Guide.

Other Information

Refreshments will be provided, but please bring your own packed lunch.

The course will include visiting site in a forestry and woodland environment. The ground will be uneven so there will be a need to wear PPE suitable for outdoor visits appropriate to the conditions and weather.