Ok, so the APF committee is funding an area dedicated for forest workers and those on the ‘wood face’ of the industry at this years show.
Here is a brief beakdown of what will be going on. There are some good people involved with some useful information to give out. If you have anything to share please come along, it’s your area.
Thursday and Saturday mornings will be focussing on the opportunities out there for working with woodland owners and conservation groups, the coppice industry, countryside stewardship and adding value to timber. With nearly 50% of our woodlands unmanaged we need to find ways to make these woods pay.
Friday morning will be a career clinic, with representatives from several organisations present to give out advice on finding pathways into the industry or progressing your career. The APF will be the launch of the Forestry skills study to gather information on the skills our workforce has, it’s your chance to let them know what you think about the skills the industry needs to bring timber to market.
The afternoons will feature practical demonstrations and workshops on ergonomic felling, chainsaw maintenance, highlead systems, the role of the FWM, managing risk and sharpening hand tools.
There will be a competition to win a SUGIHARA chainsaw bar, and pop up chances to win DOLMAR goodies.
There will be free tea and coffee, and a classifieds board to buy, sell or find work.
Come along and get involved, stand 1130 on the Demo circuit, next to the FCA stand. It’s your area and we appreciate any suggestions for next time.
