About the event

Gareth Biggins (MICFor) has recently started working with a major ecological restoration and maintenance company, having been a Forest Officer in Bedfordshire with the Forest of Marston Vale Trust. He is also a Volunteer Warden at Gamlingay Wood (Wildlife Trust BCN). In this talk, Gareth will explore the growing pressures facing our trees, woodlands and forest landscapes—from ash dieback and other emerging pests and diseases to the accelerating impacts of climate change. He will share how woodland and forest landscapes are being managed to adapt to these pressures, with examples including establishment of new climate smart woodlands within the Forest of Marston Vale, alongside practical approaches to building resilience into ancient semi-natural woodlands such as Holcot and Gamlingay woods. Gareth will also discuss the role of volunteers, the role of woodlands within our communities and the increasing importance of growing more homegrown timber. This is a timely look at the challenges—and opportunities—in safeguarding the trees and woods we all value.