What made you become a member of RSFS?
I became a member in 2024 through my employer, RTS Forestry.
Where did your interest in forestry begin?
My dad inspired my interest in trees and plants, which led me to pursue a career in forestry. He has spent most of his life guerrilla planting trees before it was cool and taught me how to identify different species during our many walks around our hometown.
Where is a great place in Scotland that not everyone knows about? I
I can’t think of anywhere specific, but the best places are usually found off the beaten track. I am lucky to live next to a birch woodland which is a lovely peaceful hideaway where I spend most of my time.
Do you have a favourite tree and why?
My favourite tree is the weeping willow, particularly when it is open grown on a riverbank. It provides valuable habitat, has healing properties, and reminds me of my favourite childhood book, Wind in the Willows.
Can you give us a book, movie, TV show or podcast recommendation? It doesn’t have to be forestry related!
The Overstory by Richard Powers. A powerful book about conservation, friendship, and activism.
What do you think is an important issue in forestry today?
Forestry faces many challenges, including the impacts of climate change, high deer numbers, pests and diseases, limited use of home-grown timber, public perceptions of productive forestry, constraints on planting species due to timber markets, and a lack of funding or incentives for more sustainable management techniques. The list goes on. With these challenges in mind, I think an issue is that we cannot address these problems individually, as they are systemic. However, I am inspired by many foresters who through collaboration are pushing for wider system change and are adapting their forest management techniques to respond to these challenges and are sharing their knowledge with others.
Outside of forestry, what is a hobby or activity you enjoy?
I paint landscapes, animals, and flowers.
What was your first job?
My first job in forestry was as a Forest Craftsperson with Forestry and Land Scotland. It was an amazing job that I am extremely grateful for and would recommend to anyone looking to start a career in forestry.
What do you love most about forests or forestry?
I love working with and learning from nature. Over the past few years, I have begun to recognise the rhythms of the seasons, how trees, flora, and wildlife change throughout the year. I love learning about forest ecology and how the different layers and species within a woodland support each other to create a diverse and healthy ecosystem.