This year’s Early Career Professionals Study Tour (ECPST) is designed specifically for early‑career professionals and students looking to understand what modern forestry really looks like in practice. 

Across two days at sites including Llyn Efyrnwy and Llandegla, delegates will explore how forestry operates within complex, shared landscapes, where production, conservation, recreation, utilities, farming, and public expectations must all be balanced. Moving beyond the theory, the tour focuses on real sites, real constraints, and real decision‑making. 

Delegates will gain practical insight into: 

• Delivering woodland creation for carbon and biodiversity on the ground 

• Managing forests in highly visible, publicly accessible locations 

• Operating productive forests alongside high visitor use, including recreation such as mountain biking 

• Working with farmers and landowners, and understanding how forestry fits within wider land‑use systems 

• Navigating ecological constraints, including protected species and habitat considerations 

• Understanding emerging policy and funding, including the Sustainable Farming Scheme and updated grant opportunities expected in 2026 

Throughout the tour, discussion will focus on how competing objectives are prioritised and managed in practice, helping delegates build confidence in assessing trade‑offs between environmental, social, and economic outcomes. 

This study tour offers early‑career attendees the opportunity to: 

• Bridge the gap between academic learning and professional practice 

• Develop a clearer understanding of ‘on‑the‑ground’ decision‑making in forestry 

• Ask questions in a supportive, early‑career‑focused setting 

• Build networks with peers and experienced practitioners across the sector 

Whether you are studying forestry or land management, recently graduated, or in the early stages of your career, this tour provides a valuable foundation for working in today’s multi‑use forestry landscape. 

This event is open to ICF members and non‑members and is a great chance to learn, share experiences, and build connections with others at a similar stage in their careers. 

At the end of day one, there will be the option to gather at a nearby pub for an informal meal and a social evening. We are inviting delegates to camp together at the beautiful Henstent Holiday Park near Lake Vyrnwy to appreciate the stunning Welsh landscape. Alternatively, there are accommodation options in the nearby town of Oswestry Sweeny Hall Hotel and Travelodge Oswestry. Please note that both optional camping and accommodation must be booked separately by delegates.