Our Strategy to 2035
Over the next decade we will support the creation and management of resilient, productive and diverse treescapes.
Inspiring excellence in woodland management
Trees and woodlands are crucial in tackling some of the biggest challenges that we face today; combatting climate change and reversing biodiversity loss, as well as providing many wider socio-economic benefits. At the same time, however, threats to our woods from environmental change, pests, diseases and neglect are greater than ever before. More must be done to create and actively manage woods so they are resilient to these threats and can provide for our future.
For over 140 years, the RFS has been committed to the advancement of forestry, silviculture and arboriculture, and is well-placed to inspire the needed change across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Our work brings together professionals, landowners, academics and educators, ensuring understanding of forestry continues through the generations.
We believe that by significantly increasing tree cover and bringing more woods into active management, we will improve the UK’s environmental footprint and enhance opportunities for biodiversity.
Resilient, productive and diverse woodland
and trees are at the heart of a vibrant,
sustainable landscape, supported by
dedicated people.
To inspire continuous learning in forestry and arboriculture at every level through challenge, debate, demonstration and education.
To support the creation and management of a resilient multipurpose treescape.
Our core values reflect the things we care about most. They guide our work and underpin our culture.
Commitment
We are committed to the wise management of woods and trees, for the benefits they provide.
Knowledge
We encourage and facilitate sharing knowledge on the management of woods and trees, for people of all ages and abilities.
Excellence
We aspire to achieve excellence in all aspects of our work, to ensure that our actions have lasting, positive impacts.
Respect
We respect the diversity within our community and foster an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued.
Integrity
We conduct our work with honesty, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that our actions align with our values and mission.
It is my hope that our new Strategy will unite the Society behind its mission to create and manage more productive and more resilient woods. No matter the scale – from urban trees, lowland woods through to larger upland forests. I urge all our members to join with friends and colleagues to shape a confident future for our woods.
Creating new & more resilient & productive woods
We will:
- Support ground-breaking forest research to shape a confident future for forestry
- Encourage effective agroforestry, promote wildlife recovery and sustainable transformation
- Promote control of deer, squirrels, pests & diseases
- Reach new audiences and inspire creation and active management of woodlands
- Celebrate excellence in woodland management and education
- Showcase silvicultural best practice through expanded publications.
Raising the profile of forestry
We will:
- Build partnerships to forge a positive profile for forestry and address cross-sectoral challenges.
- Co-host events, workshops, and conferences, and deliver public campaigns
- Deliver inspirational forest education programmes to new & existing audiences
- Develop a public understanding of forestry and promote forest education
- Extend our membership to farmers, landowners, environmentalists, and seek out funders who share our aspirations.
Developing career pathways
We will:
- Highlight clear career pathways which match diverse skill sets
- Provide advice, run career workshops, and encourage people into the sector.
- Provide training, certifications, bursaries, and support learning
- Promote job opportunities and encourage networking, development and support.
- Promote diversity, including, well-being and make RFS events as accessible as possible.
Sustaining a well-run Society
We will:
- Recruit relevant expertise from diverse backgrounds
- Develop & maintain clear policies and regularly review our performance
- Celebrate contributions, open communication, and professional development.
- Apply for grants and run fundraising campaigns, maintaining financial reserves for the running of the society.
- Implement systems which enable the organisation to grow, explore opportunities and improve efficiency
- Enhance knowledge sharing through strong collaborative networks.
