Wales Annual Conference: Welsh Forestry – Lessons from Abroad

About This Event

The Institute of Chartered Foresters Wales Member Network holds its annual conference on 4 November 2026 at the Halliwell Conference Centre, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Carmarthen. The event runs from 9.30am to 3.40pm and brings together forestry professionals, woodland managers, landowners, policymakers, researchers, students and industry representatives. Tickets cost £60 for ICF members, £80 for non-members and £30 for students. Lunch and refreshments are included. The Wales Member Network AGM takes place during the day.The conference examines what Welsh forestry can learn from international experience. Speakers include Dominic Robinson, Chief Executive of Soil Association Certification, discussing forest certification; Peter Chappell, Investment Manager at Finnfund, covering international forestry investment; and Alex Donaldson, Forest Manager at Bronwin & Abbey, presenting on fire management lessons from Forestry Corporation Australia through the ICF Young Professional Foresters' Exchange Programme. The event is chaired by Louise Simpson, Executive Director of the Institute of Chartered Foresters, with opening and closing addresses from Neil Sachdev MBE and Andrew Sowerby FICFor.The conference offers CPD opportunities and networking for forestry professionals at all career stages. It provides a platform to share knowledge, gain insights into current international forestry developments, and consider how global practices might inform Welsh woodland management and policy. Parking is available on campus but not guaranteed; attendees must register vehicles at the conference desk to avoid fines.

Key Takeaways

• International perspectives on forest certification and its practical value for Welsh woodland managers
• Fire management techniques from Australia applicable to UK forestry operations
• Investment approaches in forestry and agriculture from international development finance
• Networking opportunities with forestry professionals, policymakers and researchers across Wales
• CPD-accredited sessions covering global forestry challenges and opportunities

Who Should Attend

• Forestry professionals and woodland managers seeking international best practice
• Landowners and estate managers considering certification or new management approaches
• Students and early-career foresters building knowledge and professional networks
• ICF members in Wales attending the Wales Member Network AGM