How long have you been an RSFS member?
Informally since 2013 with Forestry Commission’s corporate membership, but more formally since 2023 when I became secretary of the Central Region branch.
What made you become a member of RSFS?
I wanted to become more involved in the forest industry outside of my day-to-day job, which is a challenge as life is so busy! I find the events organised by RSFS are always very friendly, relaxed and informative – I really value the discussions that spring up during the field days and learn a lot from them.
Where did your interest in forestry begin?
I have always loved trees and being outside, however I grew up in Northern Ireland where (at the time) forest cover was less than 5% of the total land area, so forestry was never on my radar as a career choice. I moved to Edinburgh for university and attended a careers session hosted by Forestry Commission Scotland – I realised then that forestry was the sector I wanted to work in and have never looked back.
Where is a great place in Scotland that not everyone knows about?
Perth! I love living here, and over the years have discovered some fantastic woodland walks within easy reach of the city – Moncrieffe Hill (Woodland Trust) and Deuchny Hill (FLS) are two favourites.
Do you have a favourite tree and why?
Hard to choose, but I think I love aspen the most. They look amazing and it’s a thrill to unexpectedly find them growing in the wild.
Can you give us a book, movie, TV show or podcast recommendation? It doesn’t have to be forestry related!
I would highly recommend “The Detectorists” (BBC) – it’s a warm and gentle watch with an excellent soundtrack.
What do you think is an important issue in forestry today?
I think deer management has been a difficult and contentious issue for as long as I’ve worked in forestry, however in recent years I’ve seen huge steps forward in effective deer management and collaboration at a landscape scale. The recognition of the importance of the Atlantic Rainforest habitat has opened up more access to the Forestry Grant Scheme, and these days a large part of my job is processing applications for deer management grants – either for direct support to increase deer culls, or funding towards larders and processing units. I have a real satisfaction in knowing that I am involved in helping tackle this issue.
Outside of forestry, what is a hobby or activity you enjoy?
If I had an free Saturday afternoon I would probably choose to go beachcombing. I enjoying hunting for pottery sherds, especially brightly coloured spongeware fragments, along the Fife coast – highly satisfying to find, and they make very pretty plant pot toppers!
What was your first job?
My first forestry job was as a Placement Student in Central Conservancy.
What do you love most about forests or forestry?
That they can produce timber and sustainable wood products – I’m looking forward to more people living in homegrown timber framed houses!