The annual National Forestry Conference, organised by the CLA, Forestry Commission and Grown in Britain, returns for its ninth year with a highly relevant theme and an outstanding line-up of speakers.

As the forestry sector faces growing demands for productivity, resilience and sustainability, this year's conference will explore how stronger connections across the supply chain, industry and policy landscape can unlock new commercial opportunities and drive long-term success.

Bringing together up to 200 foresters, farmers, landowners, land managers and industry stakeholders from across the UK, the conference offers a unique opportunity to gain practical insights, hear from leading experts and build valuable professional connections.

Why attend?
• Hear from influential voices shaping the future of forestry
• Explore the latest innovations, technologies and services
• Learn from real-world case studies and practical experiences
• Connect with professionals from across the forestry and land management sectors
• Discover new opportunities to strengthen the commercial value of your forestry business

Speakers

We're delighted to welcome Paul Brannen, Consultant to the Forestry and Timber Sectors, Author and Commissioner at Forestry Commission England, as our Keynote Speaker.

The conference will be opened by The Baroness Young of Old Scone, setting the stage for a thought-provoking programme featuring some of the sector's leading experts, including:

• Dr Eleanor Tew, Head of Forest Planning, Forest England
• David Gasca, Head of Natural Capital, Blenheim Palace
• Chris Watson, Woodland Resilience Advisor, Forestry Commission
• Andy Poore, Forestry Consultant
• Mark Townsend, Head of Woodland Management & Arboriculture UK, Savills
• Joseph Hayward, Oakland Park
• Jo Sheehan, Deer & Venison Project Manager, Cumbria Connect
• Michael Anker, Project Lead, Norfolk Deer & Wild Venison Strategy
• Bella Murfin, Chief Executive, Country Land and Business Association
• Richard Stanford, Chief Executive, Forestry Commission

Programme Highlights
Productive Woodland. Profitable Futures.

Explore the latest thinking on:

• Continuous Cover Forestry (CCF)
• Timber demand and market opportunities
• Forestry investment and natural capital
•  Woodland resilience and sustainable management

Expert Panel Discussions
Join leading practitioners and specialists as they tackle some of the sector's biggest challenges, including:

• Managing invasive species
• Tackling deer and squirrel impacts
• Building resilience in a changing landscape

And of course, no National Forestry Conference would be complete without the legendary venison pies!

Whether you manage woodland, grow timber, advise clients or shape policy, The National Forestry Conference 2026 is where connections become opportunities and ideas become action.

To be able to book the student rate, please call the office on 01264 358195 to verify eligibility, along with payment details.