University of Cumbria branches out with the Welsh Government to support the upskilling of forestry professionals
The University of Cumbria in partnership with the Welsh Government, are offering current employees working in forestry the opportunity to become professionally recognised with an industry standard qualification starting with the completion of a fully funded one day workshop in March to be held in Llandrindod Wells. Currently forestry work is a safety critical role […]
Shortlist announced for Professional Forester of the Year 2026
The Institute of Chartered Foresters is delighted to announce the three shortlisted candidates for Professional Forester of the Year 2026, the prestigious award that recognises outstanding service to the profession and the sector. This award recognises the contributions made by Chartered Arboriculturists or Chartered Foresters to the betterment of forestry on a community, regional, national […]
Stand for ICF Council in 2026
As the Institute of Chartered Foresters enters its second century, this is an exciting and timely moment to get involved in shaping its future. Building on the momentum of our 100-year anniversary, we remain committed to being a strong voice for the forestry and arboriculture sector – promoting professionalism, celebrating the achievements of our members, […]
ICF recognises two members for outstanding service to the sector
The Institute of Chartered Foresters was delighted to close 2025 by recognising two members with prestigious awards for their exceptional contributions to forestry and the advancement of the profession. The Institute’s Medal, our highest award, was given to Paul Nolan OBE MICFor, Director of The Mersey Forest, for his outstanding contributions to forestry and community […]
Paul Brannen and Professor Peter Bonfield OBE Awarded ICF Honorary Fellowships
The Institute of Chartered Foresters is pleased to award Honorary Fellowships to Paul Brannen and Professor Peter Bonfield OBE. Paul Brannen, Director of Public Affairs at the Confederation of Timber Industries, has received this award in recognition of his exceptional contribution to forestry, timber policy, and climate action. Paul is a leading advocate for sustainable […]
Call for Expert Committee on Forest Science members
The Board of Forestry Commissioners established the Expert Committee on Forest Science (ECFS) to provide independent, expert advice and assurance on the quality of science and evidence provided by the Forestry Commission’s (FC) research agency Forest Research (FR) and other providers. As a committee member there is an opportunity to make a significant contribution to the […]
Institute welcomes newest Chartered members
We are delighted to recognise and celebrate the professionals who have successfully completed the Professional Membership Entry (PME) process in 2025. Achieving chartered status is a significant professional milestone, reflecting not only technical competence and experience, but also a strong commitment to professionalism, ethical practice and continuing development within forestry and arboriculture. The PME process […]
Institute highlights of 2025
As we approach the end of 2025, take a look at some highlights from the Institute of Chartered Foresters’ centenary year. Celebrating 100 years 300+ attend the Centenary National Conference in Edinburgh Celebrating the Past, Inspiring the Future In spring 2025, we published the Centenary Issue of TREES. This edition included an article from Professor […]
A look back at our Centenary National Study Tour 2025
The Institute’s Educational & Scientific Trust (EST) funded one Student member to attend the Centenary National Study Tour in October at Windsor Great Park. The selected student was Alice Haylock who currently works for the Forestry Commission (FC) as a Development Woodland Officer, and is in her second year of the degree-level Professional Forester Apprenticeship […]
First Professional Forester Apprentices awarded chartered status
The Institute of Chartered Foresters (ICF) is delighted to celebrate a significant milestone, as three apprentices from the University of Cumbria’s inaugural Professional Forester Apprenticeship, in partnership with the ICF and the Forestry Commission, have been awarded Chartered Forester status after presenting for Professional Membership Entry (PME). Launched in 2022, this trailblazing programme is the […]