Job summary
Forestry Commission Forest Services are the Government’s forestry experts. We advise nationally and locally on how to unlock the full potential of woodlands and support the forestry sector to protect, improve and expand England’s valuable woodland assets, ensuring that they continue to provide benefits to people, the environment and the economy.
Never has there been a more important time for trees and forests to help tackle the climate emergency and provide a much-needed sanctuary for people and wildlife. We aim to at least treble tree planting rates in England by the end of this Parliament, reflecting England’s contribution to meeting the UK’s overall target of planting 30,000 hectares per year by the end of this Parliament. This acceleration in current planting rates in England will contribute to meeting the net-zero by 2050 ambitions, and to government’s wider environmental targets. This is supported by the £640m Nature for Climate Fund announced in the March 2020 budget.
The post will be situated within the North West and West Midlands Area Field Team headed by Keith Jones as Area Director. The North West and West Midlands contains over 239,000 hectares of woodland ranging from internationally important ancient and designated woodlands and very productive commercial plantations. The area has a population of 13 million people with a number of important community initiatives and valuable peri-urban woodlands. We work in partnership with numerous Local Authorities, Community Forests, National Parks and NGO’s such as the Wildlife Trusts. The Area team use offices listed at locations within this notice, however since Covid-19 pandemic staff have developed a blended working approach with some ability to work from home.
We are currently seeking dynamic individuals, ideally with experience in forestry and/or land management, willing learn quickly and have the ability to inspire and motivate others. The Area Regulations and Incentives Support Officer role supports and assists Woodland Officers as required, throughout the NWWM area. The role involves engaging with woodland owners, agents, and other stakeholders to provide appropriate advice and the enforcement of Forestry and Tree Health Regulations. The post includes the need to travel and will include some long journeys and overnight stays both within and outside the Area.