What made you become a member of RSFS?
My employer who is also a member suggested it and invited me to a field trip which I came along to and enjoyed. I felt out of my depth which I knew would give me an opportunity to learn and so I continued to come along to any field trips that I could.
Where did your interest in forestry begin?
I've always been interested in the outdoors and trees in particular. I was in the Royal Marines for 6 years and when I decided to leave I decided to become an arborist, so trained practically in tree cutting and climbing. I learned tree biology and everything about trees that I could whilst working in Jordan and Saudi Arabia as I was preparing to leave the Royal Marines.
What’s your involvement with forestry now?
I am the Woodland Manager for Cowhill Trust Estate. I have a team of 3 and we do all manner of tree work around the estate including thinning, felling, planting, fencing and scrub clearing.
Where is a great place in Scotland that not everyone knows about? I
Shambellie Woods surrounding Shambellie House at New Abbey, Beautiful woodlands with a large variety of big trees and arboreal rhododendrons.
Do you have a favourite tree and why?
Silver birch because it is the most useful tree in terms of bushcraft and survival from flammable and waterproof bark to birch sap, fantastic firewood and ability to grow in most places.
Can you give us a book, film, TV show or podcast recommendation? It doesn’t have to be forestry related!
'Entangled life' by Merlin Sheldrake is a fascinating look at fungi and 'Wilding' By Isabella Tree
What do you think is an important issue in forestry today?
Sawmills and Forests need to accept and work with a mixed diversity of species to guard against pests and diseases and climate change. I also think that our woodlands, farms and towns need to be treated as a whole ecosystem where decisions in one area can affect the whole system.
Outside of forestry, what is a hobby or activity you enjoy?
I most enjoy spending time with my family, deer stalking, keeping fit and I volunteer as a climber for ringing osprey chicks and building and maintaining nests.
What was your first job?
Farm worker on a mixed farm in Leicestershire
What do you love most about forests or forestry?
Spending time outside all day away from too many people