National Tree Officers Conference 2026

About This Event

The National Tree Officers Conference 2026 is a one-day event taking place on 4 November 2026 at Cutlers' Hall in Sheffield. Organised by the Association of Tree Officers, Institute of Chartered Foresters, London Tree Officers Association, and Municipal Tree Officers' Association, the conference brings together tree professionals from across the UK. Tickets cost £55. An informal pre-conference drinks reception is scheduled for the evening of 3 November at Sheffield Plate.The programme features presentations from local authority tree officers, researchers, and consultants covering practical and strategic topics. Sessions include community tree nurseries, tree risk management, storm damage response, urban tree metrics, tree equity mapping, canopy cover analysis, ancient woodland protection, tree felling legislation, canker stain of plane research, and biodiversity approaches to oak processionary moth management. Speakers include Kate Josephs CB (Sheffield City Council Chief Executive), Professor Cecil Konijnendijk, and specialists from Forest Research, Trees for Cities, and local authorities.The conference addresses current challenges facing those responsible for managing urban trees, including climate change, biosecurity threats, development pressures, and public expectations of green spaces. It provides a platform for sharing real-world experiences, discussing policy and practice, and engaging with the latest research affecting the sector.

Key Takeaways

• Community tree nurseries can supplement local supply and develop volunteer skills
• Tree equity tools help identify neighbourhoods most in need of canopy cover
• Storm response planning requires multi-agency coordination and resilience frameworks
• Canopy cover analysis supports evidence-based targets in tree and woodland strategies
• Natural predators may contribute to long-term oak processionary moth management

Who Should Attend

• Local authority tree officers and arboricultural teams managing public tree assets
• Planning professionals working on green infrastructure and urban forestry strategy
• Arboricultural consultants advising on tree risk, protection, and management
• Early-career professionals seeking practical insights and sector networking opportunities